If you’re in the mood for a festive treat that feels like a warm holiday hug in a glass, this Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the spicy sweetness of gingerbread with the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream and a smooth kick of vanilla vodka, this shake is both comforting and delightfully spirited. The crunchy cookie-rimmed glass and whipped cream topping make it as fun to look at as it is to drink. Whether you’re celebrating a cozy winter night or impressing guests at a holiday gathering, this Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake Recipe will quickly become your go-to indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to making this milkshake incredibly tasty and festive without fuss. Each component plays a crucial role, from the creamy vanilla ice cream creating the perfect texture to the gingerbread syrup injecting that unmistakable holiday flavor. The crushed gingerbread cookies add crunchy texture and visual appeal, while the vodka gives it a smooth, boozy warmth.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Provides the creamy base and thins the shake to the perfect sipping consistency.
- Vanilla Vodka (1/4 cup): Adds a smooth, adult twist with mellow vanilla notes that complement the gingerbread perfectly.
- Monin Gingerbread Flavored Syrup (1 tablespoon): Infuses that delicious spicy-sweet gingerbread essence essential for holiday vibes.
- Vanilla Ice Cream (2 scoops): The foundation of creaminess and sweetness that makes this milkshake decadent.
- White Chocolate Almond Bark (2 squares, melted): Used to rim the glass and give a luscious, creamy coating that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Pepperidge Farm Gingerbread Men Cookies (1 package): For crushing and adding crunch to the rim and garnish, reinforcing the gingerbread theme visually and taste-wise.
- Redi-Whip Whipped Cream: The crowning glory that adds lightness and a creamy finish on top.
- Maraschino Cherries (optional): Classic and colorful, they add a pop of red that makes the presentation festive and inviting.
How to Make Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Glass Rim
Start by melting the white chocolate almond bark in a microwave-safe shallow dish. Heat it for 30 seconds, stir halfway through, then continue until smooth and melted. Crush your gingerbread men cookies into fine crumbs and spread them out in another shallow dish. Dip the rim of your milkshake glass first into the melted chocolate, then immediately into the cookie crumbs. Pop the glass into the freezer so that the chocolate sets nicely and holds the cookie crumbs in place. This step adds a fantastic crunchy contrast and a beautiful festive detail.
Step 2: Mix the Milkshake
In a large pitcher or mixing bowl, combine the milk, vanilla vodka, gingerbread syrup, and two generous scoops of vanilla ice cream. Use a wooden spoon to stir everything together until thick, creamy, and well combined. This is where all those delicious flavors unite into a luscious, boozy treat. Pour the milkshake carefully into the prepared glass, ensuring you don’t disturb the cookie crumb rim.
Step 3: Finish with Toppings
Top your milkshake lavishly with Redi-Whip whipped cream and sprinkle a few crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs over the cream for extra texture and visual appeal. For a final festive touch, add a maraschino cherry on top. Now your delightful Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake Recipe

Garnishes
A simple swirl of whipped cream with some crushed gingerbread crumbs elevates the milkshake from delicious to dazzling. The frozen white chocolate coating on the rim paired with the cookie crumbs adds great contrast. Maraschino cherries are optional but bring a vibrant pop color that instantly says holiday cheer.
Side Dishes
This Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake Recipe pairs wonderfully with light, crunchy snacks such as cinnamon sugar biscotti or even a small plate of spiced nuts. It also makes a fun dessert on its own after a hearty meal or as a festive indulgence during a holiday party.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special presentation, try serving it in a mason jar tied with a red ribbon or alongside a mini gingerbread man cookie on a cocktail pick. You could also drizzle a bit of caramel or chocolate syrup inside the glass before adding the shake for a stunning layered look. These little touches make it feel extra thoughtful and celebratory.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If by some miracle you have leftovers, store your milkshake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind the texture will change as the ice cream melts, so give it a good stir or blend before serving again.
Freezing
Freezing the milkshake is not recommended since the alcohol and ice cream texture complicate freezing without icy separation. It’s best enjoyed fresh for that creamy, smooth experience.
Reheating
Reheating a milkshake isn’t ideal, especially one with alcohol and ice cream like this. Instead, consider making single servings fresh when you want to enjoy it. If you do save some, give it a thorough blend to revive the creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I make the Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake Recipe non-alcoholic?
Absolutely! Simply omit the vanilla vodka and add a little extra gingerbread syrup or vanilla extract to retain flavor. It’s just as festive and delicious without the booze.
What can I substitute if I don’t have Monin Gingerbread Syrup?
You can try using homemade gingerbread spice mix combined with brown sugar syrup or molasses. A few drops of ginger extract also help mimic that warming spice flavor.
Can I use other types of vodka?
Yes, but vanilla vodka complements the gingerbread perfectly. If you only have plain vodka, you might want to add a splash of vanilla extract to maintain that sweet vanilla undertone.
Can I prepare this milkshake for a large group?
Definitely! Scale up your ingredients proportionally and mix in a large pitcher. Just be sure to prepare the glass rims just before serving to keep everything looking fresh and delicious.
How do I get the perfect texture for this milkshake?
Use high-quality, creamy vanilla ice cream and chill your milk beforehand. Stir gently but well to combine the ingredients without melting the ice cream too much, so the shake stays thick and rich.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake Recipe when it comes to indulging in festive flavors with a fun, adult twist. It’s easy to make, gorgeous to serve, and utterly delicious. So next time you want to treat yourself or impress friends during the holidays, grab those gingerbread cookies and raise a glass to cozy goodness!
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Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Boozy Gingerbread Milkshake is a festive and indulgent treat perfect for holiday celebrations. Combining creamy vanilla ice cream with the warm spice of gingerbread syrup and a splash of vanilla vodka, it’s beautifully finished with a white chocolate and gingerbread cookie rim, whipped cream, and optional maraschino cherry for an extra touch of decadence.
Ingredients
Milkshake Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vanilla vodka
- 1 tablespoon Monin gingerbread flavored syrup
- 2 scoops vanilla ice cream
Glass Rim
- 2 squares white chocolate almond bark (melted)
- 2 crushed Pepperidge Farm gingerbread men cookies (for rimming the glass)
Toppings
- Redi-Whip whipped cream (to top)
- Additional crushed gingerbread men cookies (to sprinkle on top)
- Maraschino cherries (optional, to top)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass Rim: In a medium shallow dish, melt the white chocolate almond bark in the microwave for 30 seconds, stirring halfway through to ensure smooth melting. Place the crushed gingerbread cookies in another shallow dish. Dip the rim of the milkshake glass first into the melted white chocolate, then immediately into the cookie crumbs to coat. Place the glass in the freezer to allow the chocolate to set firmly.
- Make the Milkshake: In a large pitcher, combine the milk, vanilla vodka, gingerbread syrup, and vanilla ice cream. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is well blended and thickened, achieving a creamy consistency.
- Assemble and Serve: Remove the prepared glass from the freezer and pour the milkshake into it. Generously top the milkshake with whipped cream and sprinkle additional crushed gingerbread cookie crumbs over the whipped cream. If desired, add a maraschino cherry on top for a classic garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your festive boozy gingerbread milkshake!
Notes
- Adjust the amount of vodka if a stronger or milder alcoholic flavor is preferred.
- Monin gingerbread syrup can be substituted with any gingerbread or spiced syrup for a similar flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the vanilla vodka and add more milk or vanilla extract.
- Ensure the white chocolate is fully melted and smooth before rimming the glass for the best adhesion of cookie crumbs.
- Serve immediately after assembling to maintain the milkshake’s texture and chilled temperature.

