Shake Shack-Style Chocolate Shake

This version uses minimally refined sweeteners and whole organic dairy for a rich, velvety texture without industrial additives.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups organic whole milk (freeze 1 1/2 cups of it in an ice-cube tray ahead of time; keep 1/2 cup liquid)
  • 1/4 cup raw cacao powder
  • 5 Medjool dates (pitted and soaked in warm water for 5 minutes)
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla bean paste
  • A pinch of flaky sea salt
  • 1/4 cup full-fat coconut cream
  • Optional: 1 tbsp raw cacao nibs for topping

Clean swaps

How we upgrade the restaurant version with better ingredients.

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Shop the clean pantry

Reorder the shelf-stable staples for this recipe.

What you'll need

  • High-powered blender — Smoothies, nut milks, and blended drinks without chunks.
  • Nut milk bag — Strain almond or oat milk to a clean, creamy finish.
  • Cold brew pitcher — Steep coarsely ground coffee in cold water overnight — no machine needed.

Instructions

  1. Drain the soaked dates and place them in a high-powered blender.
  2. Add the cacao powder, vanilla bean paste, and sea salt to the blender.
  3. Pour in the 1/2 cup liquid milk and the coconut cream, and blend on high until the dates are completely smooth.
  4. Add the frozen milk cubes and blend on high, scraping down as needed, until thick, cold, and spoonable like a true shake.
  5. If the consistency is too thick to blend, add a splash more milk; if too thin, add a few more frozen milk cubes.
  6. Pour into chilled glasses and top with cacao nibs if desired.

FAQ

What is the difference between raw cacao powder and cocoa powder?

Raw cacao powder retains more nutrients and antioxidants compared to the roasted cocoa powder often used in commercial shakes.

Can I use regular milk instead of organic whole milk?

While you can, using organic whole milk ensures that it is free from growth hormones and antibiotics commonly found in conventional milk.

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