A date shake? It might seem like an unusual combo, but you'll be surprised how delicious this drink is! Made with dates, dairy-free milk, and plant-based ice cream, all blended to perfection. Something about the creamy, sweet flavor makes it hard to resist. This make-at-home beverage will surely hit the spot on a hot summer day.
Table of Contents
Why You'll Love This Vegan Date Shake Recipe
Simple To Make- This shake only requires 3 ingredients and is easy to make in just minutes.
Creamy- With the perfect balance of sweet and creamy, you'll love sipping on this healthy date shake anytime!
Refreshing- Dates and plant-based milk come together to make this a deliciously refreshing shake, perfect for hot summer days.
Sweet- The dates are naturally sweet without any added sugar. They provide the perfect amount of sweetness for this date shake.
What Is A Date Shake?
A traditional date shake is a popular beverage that originated in southern California. It's typically made with dates, milk, and ice cream and blended just like an old-fashioned vanilla milkshake. This vegan version takes all the elements of a traditional date shake but swaps out dairy-based ingredients for plant-based alternatives for an equally delicious treat.
Equipment Needed
- Medium Bowl or Pot to Boil Water
- High Powered Blender
- Serving Glass
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ingredients
Dates- Dates are naturally sweet and provide a caramel-like flavor to the shake
Non-Dairy Milk- Creates a creamy texture.
Dairy-Free Ice Cream- I used vegan vanilla ice cream. It adds an extra decadent, sweet element to the date shake.
How To Make A Date Shake
To make date milk, you can either use a pot on the stove or a bowl in the microwave to bring water to a boil. Then, soak your dates in the hot water for at least 10 minutes. After that, drain the dates and put them in a blender with your plant-based milk. Blend the mixture until it becomes creamy.
Next, add the dairy-free ice cream. Blend until combined. You may need to use a spoon to move the ice cream around a little if it is too thick. Once smooth, pour your date shake into serving glasses and enjoy!
What To Serve With Vegan Date Shakes
Date shakes are a perfect beverage to enjoy on their own. However, if you're looking for something to pair with it, here are some ideas:
Fruit- Serve this delicious shake alongside a bowl of colorful fresh fruit
Donuts- For a sweet treat, try serving vegan donuts with your date shake for an indulgent combination.
Coconut Flakes- Sprinkle some coconut flakes on top of your shake to add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture.
Granola Bars- Chewy, crunchy granola bars make the perfect companion to this date shake recipe.
Popular Substitutions & Additions
There are many ways you can customize this date shake recipe. Here are a few popular substitutions and additions:
Nondairy Milk- Use your favorite plant-based milk. Oat milk, coconut milk, soy milk, and almond milk all work great.
Ice Cream- Although this recipe calls for vegan vanilla ice cream, you could also use vegan chocolate or strawberry. Additionally, if you don't have any ice cream, you can use a frozen banana in place of the ice cream.
Dates- If you don't have dates, you could substitute with a different dried fruit like raisins, figs, or apricots.
Sweetness- For additional sweetness, add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup or agave nectar.
Protein- Add your favorite vegan protein powder for a protein boost.
Add Ins- For more flavor and texture, add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, or even cocoa powder. You can also add nuts, seeds, or coconut flakes.
Banana- Add a fresh banana for some extra potassium and sweetness.
Nut Butter- Drizzle your favorite nut butter on top for some added creaminess and flavor.
Chocolate Chips- For a decadent treat, add some vegan chocolate chips to your shake!
No matter how you customize this healthy date shake recipe, it's sure to be a tasty and refreshing treat.
Can You Freeze Date Shakes?
Yes, you can freeze date shakes for up to two months. Simply pour the shake into an airtight container and store it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it thaw for at least 10 minutes before drinking.
Vegan Date Sake FAQs
Can I use store-bought date milk?
Yes, you can use store-bought if you don't want to make your own date milk. Just make sure that the ingredients are vegan.
Can I use fresh dates instead of dried dates?
Yes, you can also use fresh dates in this recipe. However, you will need to boil the dates for about 20 minutes longer so that they soften and break down.
Can I make this vegan date shake recipe without ice cream?
Yes, if you don't have any vegan ice cream on hand, you can use frozen bananas instead. This will give your shake a thicker consistency but still tastes just as amazing.
How do I store leftover date shakes?
Date shakes are best served fresh, so I don't suggest trying to store leftovers. However, you can make the date milk 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to enjoy your shake, add the date milk to the blender with your vegan ice cream and blend according to the instructions above.
π Recipe
Vegan Date Shake
Ingredients
- Β½ cup dates I used Deglet Noor
- Β½ cup dairy free milk - unsweetened
- 16 ounces dairy free ice cream I used So Delicious Coconut Milk Vanilla frozen dessert
Instructions
- Bring a Β½ cup water to a boil. I used the microwave and then removed the bowl.
- Add dates to the hot water and let soak for 10 minutes.
- Add drained dates and dairy free milk to a blender.
- Blend until completely creamy.
- Add the whole 16 ounce carton of dairy free ice cream.
- Blend until smooth. If you need to poke down the ice cream as it churns - turn off the blender, poke, cover and then turn it back on.
- Enjoy your big absolutely delicious shake!
Ginny McMeans
It really is Dannii! Thank you π
Ginny McMeans
They'll be so happy π
Ginny McMeans
Oh, Beth! I'm so glad you saw this. You'll be very happy about their choices too. You're very welcome.
Ginny McMeans
Me too π Thanks Amy!