Ridiculously Creamy, Homemade Peppermint Frosty Recipe

The craving hit me like a ton of bricks one chilly December afternoon. We had just finished a marathon Christmas shopping trip at the mall, and my feet were aching. All I wanted was one of those classic fast-food Frostys, the kind you eat with a spoon because it’s just too thick for a straw. But, being so close to Christmas, I also wanted something festive, something that tasted like the holidays. That’s when the idea for a Peppermint Frosty first sparked.

I rushed home, determined to create the perfect holiday treat. My first few attempts were just okay. They tasted like peppermint milkshakes, but they were missing that distinct, thick, almost tangy texture of a real Frosty. They were too thin, too sweet, or the peppermint was overwhelming.

Then, I remembered a trick from one of my cheesecake recipes. I grabbed a block of cream cheese from the fridge. It seemed a little strange, but I had a hunch. I softened a small amount and blended it with the ice cream, milk, and peppermint extract. The result was pure magic. The cream cheese gave it the exact body and subtle tang it needed to transform from a simple milkshake into a true, spoonable Peppermint Frosty. It was rich, creamy, and perfectly festive. Now, this special version is a non-negotiable tradition in our house every holiday season.

Skip to My Special Recipe!

Why This Peppermint Frosty Recipe Works

When you think of a Frosty, you think of a specific, one-of-a-kind texture. It’s not quite ice cream, and it’s certainly not a milkshake. It’s a frozen dessert that occupies a delicious space right in between. That unique consistency is what has made it a fast-food icon for decades. The goal of this recipe was to capture that beloved texture while infusing it with bright, festive peppermint flavor.

Many homemade versions end up being too thin or icy. They miss the mark on that dense, smooth quality we all love. That’s where my little secret comes into play. The key to making this Peppermint Frosty recipe truly exceptional is a small amount of softened cream cheese.

I know it sounds unconventional, but trust me on this. The cream cheese works wonders. It adds a luxurious creaminess and body that you simply cannot get from ice cream and milk alone. It also provides a very subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness, balancing the rich vanilla and cool peppermint beautifully. This one simple ingredient elevates the entire dessert, giving it that authentic, thick, and spoonable texture that defines a classic Frosty.

This recipe works because it respects the original while giving it a festive, homemade upgrade. It’s incredibly simple, requires just a few ingredients, and comes together in minutes. It delivers all the nostalgic comfort of the drive-thru classic with a delightful holiday twist that will have everyone asking for your secret.

Ingredients for Peppermint Frosty

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You only need a handful of quality ingredients to create this festive treat. While each component is important, there is one that truly makes this recipe stand out. Let’s walk through what you’ll need.

Here is the full list of ingredients for the perfect Peppermint Frosty:

• 2 cups high-quality vanilla bean ice cream, slightly softened
• 1/4 cup whole milk, plus more if needed
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of fine sea salt
• 4-5 drops of red food coloring (optional, for a festive color)
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, for garnish
• Whipped cream, for topping

Now, let’s talk about what makes these ingredients special. For the ice cream, I truly recommend using a high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. A good ice cream with real vanilla bean specks will provide a rich, deep flavor base that stands up to the peppermint. The creaminess of a premium brand also contributes significantly to the final texture.

The star of the show, my secret ingredient, is the softened cream cheese. Please use full-fat block cream cheese, not the whipped kind in a tub. The block version has the right consistency and fat content to give our frosty that signature thickness and slight tang. Make sure it’s fully softened to room temperature so it blends seamlessly without any lumps.

For the liquid, whole milk is the way to go. The higher fat content helps keep the frosty creamy and not icy. Using skim milk or a lower-fat alternative can result in a thinner, less satisfying texture. Finally, use pure peppermint extract, not mint extract. Peppermint has a clean, candy-cane flavor, while mint extract can sometimes have a spearmint note that doesn’t quite fit here.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Peppermint Frosty

Whipping up this Peppermint Frosty is as easy as can be. It takes just a few minutes and a blender. The key is to work quickly so the ice cream doesn’t melt too much. Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go will make the process smooth and simple.

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Blender

First, grab your blender. I find it helps to add the ingredients in a specific order to help everything blend evenly. Start by pouring the 1/4 cup of whole milk into the blender jar. Then, add the softened cream cheese, the pure peppermint extract, the vanilla extract, and the pinch of fine sea salt. Adding the liquids and softer ingredients first helps the blades move more freely. Finally, add the slightly softened vanilla bean ice cream on top.

Step 2: Add Optional Food Coloring

If you want to give your frosty a lovely, festive pink hue, now is the time to add the red food coloring. I find that about 4 to 5 drops is perfect for a soft, peppermint-pink color, but feel free to add more or less depending on your preference. This step is completely optional and won’t affect the delicious taste at all, but it does make the final presentation extra special for the holidays.

Step 3: Blend Until Smooth

Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high for about 30 to 45 seconds. You are looking for a mixture that is completely smooth, thick, and creamy. Be careful not to over-blend. Over-blending can generate heat and melt the ice cream, resulting in a thin, soupy consistency. If the frosty seems too thick for your blender to handle, you can add another tablespoon of milk to help it along, but only add a little at a time.

Step 4: Pour and Garnish

Once you’ve reached that perfect, spoonable consistency, immediately pour the Peppermint Frosty into a chilled glass. Chilling your serving glasses in the freezer for about 15 minutes beforehand is a great trick to help keep the frosty cold and thick for longer. Top it with a generous swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies for a festive crunch.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

This treat is best enjoyed right away. Hand it over with a spoon for scooping and a straw for sipping once it melts just a little. Enjoy that perfect, creamy, peppermint-packed bite!

How To Serve Peppermint Frosty

Serving this Peppermint Frosty is half the fun. Because it has such a wonderfully thick texture and festive feel, you can really play up the presentation to make it a show-stopping dessert. The right glass and garnishes can turn this simple treat into something truly special, perfect for holiday parties, family movie nights, or just a cozy evening by the fire.

For a classic, nostalgic look, I love serving these in tall, fluted milkshake glasses. It just feels right. Chilling the glasses in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before pouring is my number one tip. It keeps the frosty from melting too quickly and makes the glass look beautifully frosted on the outside. You can even drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce inside the glass before pouring in the frosty for a pretty striped effect.

The garnishes are where you can get really creative. Here are a few of my favorite ways to dress up a Peppermint Frosty:

• Classic Toppings: A big dollop of whipped cream and a generous sprinkle of crushed candy canes or peppermint candies is the go-to. The crunch from the candy is a perfect contrast to the smooth frosty.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add a drizzle of hot fudge sauce over the whipped cream and sprinkle with mini chocolate chips or chocolate shavings. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is always a winner.
• Extra Festive Flair: Hook a mini candy cane on the rim of the glass for a cute, edible decoration. A sprig of fresh mint can also add a nice pop of color and aroma.
• Cookie Crumble: For an extra decadent touch, crumble some chocolate cookies, like Oreos, or shortbread cookies over the top.

No matter how you serve it, be sure to provide both a spoon and a wide straw. This dessert starts out thick enough to be eaten with a spoon, but as it sits, it becomes perfect for sipping. It’s the best of both worlds!

How To Store & Reuse Peppermint Frosty Leftovers

Let’s be honest, a Peppermint Frosty is at its absolute best the moment it comes out of the blender. That creamy, perfectly thick texture is fleeting, and it’s meant to be enjoyed immediately. However, on the rare occasion that you have leftovers, or if you want to prep a little ahead, there are ways to store it. You just have to know that it won’t be exactly the same when you serve it the second time around, but it can still be delicious.

If you have leftovers, the best way to store them is in the freezer. Pour the remaining frosty into a freezer-safe, airtight container. A small mason jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works well. Pressing a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the frosty before sealing the container can help prevent ice crystals from forming. It will freeze solid, much like a container of ice cream.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, you have a couple of options to bring it back to life:

• Thaw and Stir: The simplest method is to move the container from the freezer to the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or let it sit on the counter for 15 to 20 minutes. You want it to soften enough that you can stir it vigorously with a spoon to break up the ice crystals and restore some of its creamy texture.
• Re-blend for Best Results: For a texture that’s closer to the original, scoop the frozen frosty back into your blender. Add a small splash of milk, just a tablespoon or two, to help it blend. Pulse it a few times until it becomes smooth and creamy again. This is the best way to revive that signature frosty consistency.

You can also get creative with the frozen leftovers. Scoop it like ice cream and serve it with a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or use the frozen block as a base for a new milkshake. It’s a versatile treat even after it’s been frozen.

Substitutions & Variations For Peppermint Frosty

One of the things I love most about this Peppermint Frosty recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you have dietary restrictions or just want to experiment with different flavors, this recipe is a fantastic starting point. With a few simple swaps, you can create a version that’s perfect for you and your family.

The core components, ice cream, milk, and cream cheese, can all be substituted to fit different needs. Here are some of my favorite ways to customize this festive treat:

• Make It Dairy-Free: You don’t have to miss out if you’re avoiding dairy. Use a high-quality dairy-free vanilla ice cream made from almond, cashew, or coconut milk. Swap the whole milk for a creamy plant-based milk like oat milk or full-fat coconut milk. For the cream cheese, there are many excellent dairy-free cream cheese alternatives available that work beautifully.
• Chocolate Peppermint Frosty: For the ultimate holiday indulgence, use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla. The combination of rich chocolate and cool peppermint is a classic for a reason. You could even add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the blender for an even deeper chocolate flavor.
• Boozy Peppermint Frosty for Adults: Turn this family-friendly treat into a festive cocktail by adding a shot of your favorite spirit. One ounce of peppermint schnapps, creme de menthe, or even vanilla vodka would be a delicious addition. Just add it to the blender with the other ingredients.
• Change Up the Extract: While peppermint is the star, you could experiment with other flavors. A splash of almond extract would add a lovely nutty note, or you could try a coffee extract for a peppermint mocha frosty.

Feel free to play around with the toppings as well. A drizzle of salted caramel, a sprinkle of toffee bits, or even some festive holiday sprinkles would all be wonderful additions. This recipe is all about having fun and creating a treat that brings you joy, so don’t be afraid to make it your own.

5 FAQs About Peppermint Frosty

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about this Peppermint Frosty recipe.

What makes this Peppermint Frosty recipe different from a regular milkshake?

This is probably the most important question, as it gets to the heart of what makes this recipe so special. The primary difference lies in the texture. A traditional milkshake is typically made with ice cream and a larger amount of milk, blended until it’s thin enough to sip easily through a straw. It’s a drinkable dessert.

My Peppermint Frosty, on the other hand, is designed to replicate the unique consistency of the famous Wendy’s Frosty. It’s much thicker, denser, and creamier than a milkshake. It’s a dessert that you start with a spoon. The secret to achieving this signature texture is the addition of softened cream cheese and using a minimal amount of milk. The cream cheese adds body, richness, and a subtle tangy flavor that balances the sweetness, while the lower milk-to-ice-cream ratio keeps it from becoming too liquid. It truly creates a hybrid dessert that exists in that perfect space between soft-serve ice cream and a classic shake.

Can I make a dairy-free Peppermint Frosty?

Absolutely! It’s very easy to adapt this recipe to be completely dairy-free, and the results are just as delicious. You will need to make a few key substitutions for the main dairy components. Start by choosing a high-quality dairy-free vanilla ice cream. There are wonderful options available made from almond, cashew, coconut, or oat milk. I find that ones with a cashew or coconut base tend to be the creamiest and work best for this recipe.

Next, swap the whole milk for a creamy, unsweetened plant-based milk. Oat milk is a fantastic choice because of its naturally creamy consistency, but almond milk or full-fat canned coconut milk (the beverage kind, not the thick cream) will also work well. Finally, you’ll need a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Many brands make excellent versions that have a similar texture and tang to traditional cream cheese. Just be sure to use the block-style dairy-free cream cheese, not a whipped spread, and ensure it is fully softened before blending for the smoothest result.

How do I get the perfect thick texture for my Peppermint Frosty?

Achieving that perfectly thick, spoonable texture is the main goal, and there are a few key techniques to ensure success. First, the state of your ice cream is crucial. You want it to be slightly softened, but not melted. I recommend taking it out of the freezer just 5 to 10 minutes before you plan to make the frosty. This makes it easier to blend without needing to add too much extra liquid, which would thin it out.

Second, be very conservative with the milk. Start with just the 1/4 cup called for in the recipe. The milk is only there to help the ingredients blend; it’s not meant to turn it into a drink. Only add more, one tablespoon at a time, if your blender is struggling. Third, don’t skip the softened cream cheese. This is the secret weapon for thickness and creaminess. Finally, do not over-blend. Run the blender just until everything is smooth, about 30-45 seconds. Over-blending creates friction and heat, which will melt your frosty and make it runny. Following these steps will give you that perfect, thick consistency every time.

Can I make this Peppermint Frosty ahead of time?

While this Peppermint Frosty is definitely best when served fresh, you can make it ahead of time with a little planning. It’s not ideal because the texture will change upon freezing, but it’s certainly possible if you need to prep for a party or just want to have it on hand. To do this, prepare the recipe as directed and pour the mixture into a freezer-safe, airtight container.

It will freeze solid, similar to regular ice cream. When you’re ready to serve, you’ll need to revive it. Remove the container from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly. Then, scoop the hardened frosty back into the blender. Add a splash of milk, about one or two tablespoons, and re-blend until it’s smooth and creamy again. This will bring it back very close to its original, freshly made texture. It’s an extra step, but it’s worth it to enjoy that signature consistency.

What’s the best ice cream to use for a Peppermint Frosty?

The quality of your ice cream makes a significant difference in the final taste and texture of your Peppermint Frosty. For the absolute best results, I highly recommend using a premium or high-quality vanilla bean ice cream. These ice creams typically have a higher fat content and less air whipped into them, which results in a richer, creamier base for your frosty. The visible vanilla bean specks also add a lovely, gourmet look to the final dessert.

That being said, any vanilla ice cream you enjoy will work in this recipe. A simple, classic vanilla or even a French vanilla would be delicious. If you want to get creative, you could also use a different base flavor. A high-quality chocolate ice cream would make an amazing Chocolate Peppermint Frosty. The most important thing is to choose an ice cream that you love the taste of on its own, as its flavor will be the foundation of your frosty.

Try These Recipes Next

If you loved this festive Peppermint Frosty, here are a few other chocolate and peppermint treats from my kitchen that I know you’ll enjoy.

• 40 Chocolate Peppermint Recipes: A huge roundup of the best holiday treats, from cookies to cakes, all featuring that classic flavor combination.
• Chocolate Peppermint Fudge: This fudge is incredibly rich, easy to make, and perfect for holiday gift-giving.
• Mint Chocolate Pudding Pie: A cool and creamy no-bake pie with a chocolate cookie crust that’s a total crowd-pleaser.

Happy cooking, and I hope you love these recipes as much as we do!