If you’re looking for a burst of nostalgic flavor and a cool treat that’s as dreamy as a summer day, you can’t go wrong with an Orange Creamsicle Milkshake. It’s the perfect balance of zesty orange and smooth vanilla that instantly transports you back to chasing the ice cream truck. With every creamy, fizzy sip, you get a sweet-yet-tangy experience that’s joyfully simple to create and a guaranteed crowd pleaser for all ages.

Orange Creamsicle Milkshake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Orange Creamsicle Milkshake comes together with a handful of everyday ingredients, each one playing a starring role in recreating this childhood-inspired favorite. Pay attention to the quality and temperature of your ingredients for the smoothest, most luscious results.

Orange soda: Delivers bright and bubbly citrus flavor while keeping the milkshake airy and fun.
Vanilla ice cream: Brings creamy richness and that classic vanilla note essential to the creamsicle combo.
Orange sherbet: Intensifies the orange tang and adds a light, fruity texture that balances the dairy.
Whipped cream: Perfect for topping, adding a pillowy finish that melts into the milkshake with each sip.
Orange slice and cherry (optional): These classic garnishes make the presentation pop with color and a hint of festive flair.

How to Make Orange Creamsicle Milkshake

Step 1: Start with the Orange Soda

Begin by pouring 3/4 cup of your favorite orange soda into a blender. This little move creates a fizzy base, which is key to capturing the original creamsicle sparkle. Tip: Use chilled soda for an extra-cold, ultra-refreshing shake.

Step 2: Scoop in the Vanilla Ice Cream

Add two generous scoops (about 2/3 cup) of creamy vanilla ice cream right on top of the soda. The ice cream helps thicken the milkshake and brings that iconic creamy component that makes the Orange Creamsicle Milkshake so irresistible.

Step 3: Add the Orange Sherbet

Next, dollop in two scoops (about 2/3 cup) of orange sherbet. This not only gives your milkshake a lovely pastel hue but cranks up the citrus flavor for a truly authentic creamsicle taste.

Step 4: Blend Until Dreamy

Pop the lid on your blender and blitz everything until it’s smooth, creamy, and just pourable. If you love thick milkshakes, toss in an extra spoonful of ice cream at this stage for that classic, spoonable texture.

Step 5: Pour and Top

Carefully pour the milkshake into your favorite tall glass. This is the moment when all those creamy, swirly layers come together, ready for the finishing touches.

Step 6: Finish with Whipped Cream

Top it all off with a generous swirl (or three!) of whipped cream. In the world of an Orange Creamsicle Milkshake, more is definitely better. The whipped cream melts slightly and blends perfectly with the chilly drink below.

Step 7: Garnish with Style

Add an orange slice and a cherry on top for that picture-perfect look. The bright orange and cherry red are as delightful to see as they are to taste.

How to Serve Orange Creamsicle Milkshake

Garnishes

For the ultimate Orange Creamsicle Milkshake experience, never skip the fun garnishes. A fresh orange slice perched on the rim and a maraschino cherry right on the whipped cream turn each glass into a mini celebration. Sprinkle a little orange zest on top for extra zing if you’re feeling fancy.

Side Dishes

Pair your milkshake with light, buttery shortbread cookies or a simple vanilla wafer to bring out the citrus and creamy flavors. These mild cookies complement the milkshake without overshadowing its star qualities, making every sip and bite truly special.

Creative Ways to Present

Try using mason jars or vintage soda fountain glasses for a retro look that matches the classic Orange Creamsicle Milkshake vibe. For parties, serve in mini glasses or even hollowed-out oranges for a whimsical, edible cup that’s sure to wow any crowd.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Orange Creamsicle Milkshake can be poured into a jar and stashed in the fridge for a few hours. Just remember that the texture may thin out as it sits, so give it a quick stir or blend before serving again.

Freezing

Want to save your milkshake for later? Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw for about 15-20 minutes, then stir or blend to restore the creamy texture.

Reheating

While you don’t want to “reheat” a milkshake in the conventional sense, if your stored shake is icy from the fridge or freezer, let it stand at room temperature for a few minutes or blend it again to smooth things out before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different soda instead of orange?

Absolutely! While orange soda is classic for an Orange Creamsicle Milkshake, you could try lemon-lime or even a dash of sparkling water with orange juice for a lighter version. Just keep in mind, the iconic creamsicle flavor is strongest with orange soda.

Is there a non-dairy version?

You can easily swap the regular ice cream and sherbet with plant-based alternatives. There are great vegan vanilla ice creams and fruit-based orange sorbets that work beautifully for a dairy-free milkshake.

How can I make the milkshake thicker?

For an ultra-thick Orange Creamsicle Milkshake, simply add an extra scoop of ice cream or sherbet. You can also reduce the amount of soda just a bit to amp up the creaminess.

Can I prepare this Orange Creamsicle Milkshake ahead for a party?

Definitely! You can pre-blend the milkshake base and freeze or chill it. When it’s party time, give it a blend to refresh the texture, then top with whipped cream and garnishes just before serving for the best presentation.

What can I do if I don’t have a blender?

No worries! Let the ice cream and sherbet soften slightly, then combine all ingredients in a large bowl and whisk until smooth. It might require some elbow grease, but the end result will still be deliciously satisfying.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a little Orange Creamsicle Milkshake magic into your home is the easiest way to brighten up any day, no special occasion needed. This recipe is a guaranteed ticket to creamy, citrusy nostalgia that everyone absolutely loves. Don’t wait for summer — just gather a few simple ingredients and treat yourself to this dreamy, homemade classic!

Orange Creamsicle Milkshake Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 5 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Indulge in a nostalgic treat with this creamy and refreshing Orange Creamsicle Milkshake. Made with a blend of orange soda, vanilla ice cream, and orange sherbet, this delightful beverage is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Orange Creamsicle Milkshake:

3/4 cup orange soda
2/3 cup vanilla ice cream (approximately 2 scoops)
2/3 cup orange sherbet (approximately 2 scoops)

For Topping:

3 tbsp whipped cream
Orange slice and cherry for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Pour Orange Soda: Pour 3/4 cup of orange soda into a blender.
Add Ice Cream: Add 2 large scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Add Sherbet: Add 2 large scoops of orange sherbet.
Blend: Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Pour: Pour the mixture into a glass.
Top with Whipped Cream: Add a generous amount of whipped cream on top.
Garnish: Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
Extra Thick Option: For a thicker milkshake, add more ice cream to your liking.

Notes

You can customize this milkshake by adding different flavors of ice cream or sherbet.
Feel free to experiment with toppings like sprinkles or chocolate syrup.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Beverage
Method: Blending
Cuisine: American