As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases and sometimes recommend products from other sellers at no extra cost to you. For more details see my disclosure policy .
There are few things more satisfying than a thick, creamy milkshake especially when it’s infused with the rich, chocolate-hazelnut goodness of Nutella. Whether you’re craving a refreshing summer treat, a quick dessert, or something indulgent after a long day, a Nutella milkshake hits all the right notes.
This recipe is simple, fast, and incredibly customizable. With just a handful of ingredients and a blender, you can create a café-style milkshake right at home. In this guide, you’ll learn everything from the basic recipe to expert tips, variations, and common mistakes to avoid so your Nutella milkshake turns out perfect every time.
What Is a Nutella Milkshake?
A Nutella milkshake is a creamy blended drink made with Nutella, milk, and ice cream. It stands out from a regular chocolate milkshake because of its unique hazelnut flavor, which adds depth and richness that plain chocolate just can’t match.
The combination of smooth Nutella and cold ice cream creates a luxurious texture that’s both thick and silky. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors all in one glass.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Nutella milkshake, you only need a few basic ingredients. However, the quality of these ingredients can significantly affect the final result.
Core Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons Nutella – The star of the recipe
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream – For creaminess and sweetness
- 1 cup milk – Whole milk works best for richness
Optional Add-Ins:
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Chocolate syrup or extra Nutella drizzle
- Crushed hazelnuts
- Cocoa powder for deeper chocolate flavor
- A shot of espresso (for a mocha twist)
- Ice cubes (for a colder, lighter version)
Equipment Required
You don’t need fancy tools to make this milkshake, but having the right equipment makes the process smoother.
- Blender (high-speed preferred)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall serving glass
- Straw or long spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a Nutella milkshake is incredibly easy and takes just a few minutes.
Step 1: Add Ingredients to Blender
Start by adding the vanilla ice cream, milk, and Nutella into your blender. Make sure the Nutella is slightly softened so it blends easily.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Blend the mixture on medium to high speed for about 30–60 seconds. You’re looking for a smooth, creamy consistency without lumps.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your milkshake a quick taste.
- Want it sweeter? Add a little more Nutella.
- Too thick? Add a splash of milk.
- Too thin? Add a scoop of ice cream.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Pour the milkshake into a chilled glass. Top with whipped cream and drizzle some Nutella or chocolate syrup on top. For extra flair, sprinkle crushed hazelnuts or chocolate shavings.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Nutella Milkshake
Even though this recipe is simple, a few expert tips can take your milkshake to the next level.
1. Use Chilled Ingredients
Cold milk and frozen ice cream ensure your milkshake stays thick and refreshing.
2. Balance the Ratio
The perfect milkshake is all about balance. Too much milk makes it watery, while too much ice cream makes it hard to blend.
3. Blend in Short Bursts
Instead of blending continuously, try short bursts. This helps maintain a thicker texture.
4. Chill Your Glass
A cold glass keeps your milkshake from melting too quickly and enhances the experience.
5. Don’t Overblend
Overblending can thin out your milkshake and ruin the creamy texture.
Delicious Variations to Try
One of the best things about a Nutella milkshake is how versatile it is. Here are some creative variations you can experiment with:
Nutella Banana Milkshake
Add one ripe banana for a naturally sweet and slightly fruity twist. It also makes the shake thicker and more filling.
Nutella Coffee Milkshake
Mix in a shot of espresso or cold brew coffee. This creates a rich, mocha-like flavor that coffee lovers will adore.
Vegan Nutella Milkshake
Use dairy-free ice cream and plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or coconut). You can also use a vegan hazelnut spread.
Protein Nutella Shake
Add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder for a more nutritious version. Great as a post-workout treat.
Nutella Oreo Milkshake
Blend in a few Oreo cookies for extra crunch and sweetness.
Nutritional Information
While a Nutella milkshake is undeniably delicious, it’s also a treat best enjoyed in moderation.
Approximate Nutrition (per serving):
- Calories: 400–600
- Fat: 18–25g
- Sugar: 40–60g
- Protein: 8–12g
How to Make It Lighter:
- Use low-fat or skim milk
- Replace ice cream with frozen yogurt
- Reduce the amount of Nutella
- Skip whipped cream and toppings
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple recipe can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common pitfalls:
1. Adding Too Much Milk
This is the most common mistake. It results in a thin, watery milkshake.
2. Using Warm Ingredients
Warm milk or softened ice cream can ruin the texture.
3. Overloading with Add-Ins
Too many extras can overpower the Nutella flavor.
4. Not Blending Properly
Under-blending leaves chunks, while over-blending makes it too thin.
5. Skipping Taste Test
Always taste before serving—you can easily adjust the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
A Nutella milkshake is perfect on its own, but pairing it with the right foods can elevate the experience.
Best Times to Enjoy:
- Afternoon snack
- Dessert after dinner
- Weekend treat
Great Pairings:
- Brownies or chocolate cake
- Cookies (especially chocolate chip or hazelnut)
- Pancakes or waffles
- Donuts or pastries
For a café-style presentation, serve it in a tall glass with a striped straw and a generous topping of whipped cream.
Storage Tips
Milkshakes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it:
- Keep it in the freezer for up to 1 hour
- Stir or re-blend before serving
- Avoid long storage as it can separate and lose texture
FAQs
1. Can I make a Nutella milkshake without ice cream?
Yes, you can substitute ice cream with frozen bananas or ice cubes. However, the texture will be less creamy.
2. How do I make it thicker?
Add more ice cream or reduce the amount of milk. You can also add a few ice cubes.
3. Can I use plant-based milk?
Absolutely! Almond, oat, or soy milk work great and slightly change the flavor.
4. Is Nutella milkshake healthy?
It’s more of a dessert than a health drink. However, you can make healthier versions with substitutions like low-fat milk or protein powder.
5. Can I prepare it in advance?
It’s best made fresh, but you can store it briefly in the freezer and blend again before serving.
Conclusion
A Nutella milkshake is the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves chocolate and hazelnut flavors. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with fun variations like banana, coffee, or protein versions, this milkshake is a crowd-pleaser every time. With the tips and techniques shared in this guide, you’ll be able to create a perfectly smooth, rich, and delicious Nutella milkshake right at home.