The wait is finally over for all you Shamrock Shake lovers out there. As of February 2021, McDonald’s has brought back their iconic minty green treat, the Shamrock Shake. This beloved dessert has been a staple of the McDonald’s menu for over 50 years and is a favorite among many. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Shamrock Shake, its history, and what you can expect from this year’s version.
A Brief History of the Shamrock Shake
The Shamrock Shake was first introduced by McDonald’s in 1970. It was created by Roger Webb, a McDonald’s franchisee in Rhode Island, who wanted to come up with a unique dessert to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. The original Shamrock Shake was a simple mixture of vanilla soft serve ice cream, mint syrup, and a splash of lemon juice. The drink was an instant hit, and it quickly became a staple of the McDonald’s menu.
Over the years, the Shamrock Shake has undergone several changes. In the 1980s, McDonald’s introduced a chocolate version of the shake, which was met with mixed reviews. In the 2000s, the company began offering a McCafé version of the Shamrock Shake, which featured a more premium ice cream and a wider range of toppings.
What’s New for 2021?
So, what can you expect from this year’s Shamrock Shake? According to McDonald’s, the 2021 version of the shake features the same classic recipe that fans have come to love. The shake is made with vanilla soft serve ice cream, mint syrup, and a splash of lemon juice, just like the original.
However, there are a few new twists to this year’s Shamrock Shake. For the first time ever, McDonald’s is offering a Shamrock McFlurry, which features the same minty flavor as the shake, but with a mix-in of chocolate chips and whipped cream. The company is also offering a Shamrock Chocolate Shake, which features a rich, chocolatey flavor with a hint of mint.
Nutrition Information
If you’re watching your diet, you may want to think twice before indulging in a Shamrock Shake. According to McDonald’s nutrition information, a small Shamrock Shake contains 460 calories, 13 grams of fat, and 66 grams of sugar. A large Shamrock Shake contains a whopping 840 calories, 24 grams of fat, and 112 grams of sugar.
Here is a breakdown of the nutrition information for the Shamrock Shake:
| Size | Calories | Fat (g) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small | 460 | 13 | 66 |
| Medium | 640 | 18 | 90 |
| Large | 840 | 24 | 112 |
Special Deals and Promotions
To celebrate the return of the Shamrock Shake, McDonald’s is offering a few special deals and promotions. For a limited time, customers can get a free Shamrock Shake with the purchase of a mobile order through the McDonald’s app. The company is also offering a “Shamrock Shake Party Pack” which includes four Shamrock Shakes and a free dessert.
How to Make Your Own Shamrock Shake at Home
If you can’t make it to McDonald’s to try a Shamrock Shake, don’t worry. You can easily make your own version at home using just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a recipe to make a Shamrock Shake at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/4 cup mint syrup
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Whipped cream and chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the ice cream, mint syrup, milk, and lemon juice.
- Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Taste the shake and add more mint syrup or lemon juice if desired.
- Pour the shake into a glass and top with whipped cream and chocolate chips, if desired.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to make your Shamrock Shake even better:
- Use high-quality ice cream: The key to a great Shamrock Shake is using high-quality ice cream. Look for a brand that uses real cream and sugar.
- Add a splash of coffee: If you want to give your Shamrock Shake a mocha twist, try adding a splash of coffee to the mixture.
- Use different types of milk: If you’re looking for a non-dairy version of the Shamrock Shake, try using almond milk or soy milk instead of regular milk.
Conclusion
The Shamrock Shake is a beloved dessert that has been a staple of the McDonald’s menu for over 50 years. With its classic recipe and new twists, this year’s version is sure to be a hit. Whether you’re a fan of the original Shamrock Shake or want to try something new, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead, indulge in a Shamrock Shake and celebrate the luck of the Irish.
Get Ready for St. Patrick’s Day
The return of the Shamrock Shake is just the beginning of the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Whether you’re Irish or just love the holiday, there are plenty of ways to get into the spirit. Here are a few ideas:
- Wear green: Show your Irish pride by wearing green on St. Patrick’s Day.
- Cook Irish food: Try making some traditional Irish dishes, such as corned beef and cabbage or shepherd’s pie.
- Attend a parade: Many cities and towns host St. Patrick’s Day parades. Check your local listings to see if there’s one near you.
Whatever you choose to do, make sure to have fun and celebrate the luck of the Irish. Sláinte!
What is the Shamrock Shake and why is it so popular?
The Shamrock Shake is a seasonal dessert drink offered by McDonald’s, typically available around St. Patrick’s Day. It’s a minty green milkshake made with vanilla soft serve ice cream, mint flavoring, and topped with whipped cream. The Shamrock Shake has gained a cult following over the years due to its unique flavor and limited-time availability.
The Shamrock Shake’s popularity can be attributed to its nostalgic appeal and the excitement surrounding its annual release. Many fans eagerly await the return of the Shamrock Shake, sharing their experiences and photos on social media. The drink has become a staple of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, with some enthusiasts even hosting Shamrock Shake-themed parties.
When is Shamrock Shake season and how long does it last?
Shamrock Shake season typically begins in late February or early March, depending on the location. The exact start date may vary by region, but it usually coincides with the lead-up to St. Patrick’s Day on March 17th. The Shamrock Shake is usually available for a limited time, typically around 4-6 weeks, although some locations may offer it for a shorter or longer period.
During this time, fans can enjoy the Shamrock Shake at participating McDonald’s locations. Some restaurants may also offer special deals or promotions featuring the Shamrock Shake, such as discounts or bundle meals. Be sure to check your local McDonald’s for their Shamrock Shake availability and any special offers.
What flavors are available during Shamrock Shake season?
In addition to the classic Shamrock Shake, McDonald’s often releases limited-time flavors during the season. These flavors may include variations like the Shamrock Chocolate Shake, Shamrock McFlurry, or Shamrock Hot Chocolate. Some locations may also offer special flavors, such as a Shamrock M&M’s McFlurry or a Shamrock Oreo Shamrock Shake.
These unique flavors add to the excitement of Shamrock Shake season, giving fans a chance to try new and creative twists on the classic dessert drink. Be sure to check your local McDonald’s for their available flavors and try something new during the season.
Can I customize my Shamrock Shake?
Yes, you can customize your Shamrock Shake to suit your taste preferences. McDonald’s allows customers to modify their Shamrock Shakes by swapping out the vanilla soft serve ice cream for a different flavor or adding extra toppings. Some popular customizations include adding a pump or two of chocolate syrup, swapping the whipped cream for a different topping, or using a different type of milk.
Keep in mind that not all customizations may be available at every location, so be sure to check with your local McDonald’s for their options. You can also try asking for a ” Shamrock Shake hack” – a secret modification that’s not listed on the menu but can be made by the staff.
Are there any Shamrock Shake deals or promotions available?
Yes, McDonald’s often offers special deals and promotions during Shamrock Shake season. These may include discounts on the Shamrock Shake, bundle meals featuring the dessert drink, or limited-time offers like “Buy One Get One Free” or “Shamrock Shake Happy Hour.” Some locations may also offer exclusive deals through their mobile app or loyalty program.
Be sure to check your local McDonald’s for their available deals and promotions, as they may vary by location. You can also follow McDonald’s on social media to stay up-to-date on the latest offers and announcements.
Can I get a Shamrock Shake at any McDonald’s location?
Not all McDonald’s locations participate in Shamrock Shake season, so it’s best to check with your local restaurant to confirm availability. Some locations may not offer the Shamrock Shake due to regional preferences or limited menu options.
You can use McDonald’s restaurant locator tool on their website or mobile app to find participating locations near you. Simply enter your location and filter the results by “Shamrock Shake” to find restaurants that offer the dessert drink.