Vegan Shamrock Shake

This vegan shamrock shake is my plant-based spin on the classic minty treat—no artificial dyes, no dairy, and no weird ingredients. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, and refreshing, with real mint flavor and a naturally green glow thanks to spinach. Balance is green smoothies and fun desserts, right?

What is a Vegan Shamrock Shake?

A traditional shamrock shake relies on dairy milk, ice cream, and artificial green coloring. This version skips all of that. Instead, we use creamy coconut milk, frozen banana for thickness, dates for natural sweetness, and fresh mint for that cool, nostalgic flavor. Spinach is a mild leafy green vegetable that adds the green color without changing the taste. Plants for the win.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Coconut milk (chilled): Adds rich, milkshake-like creaminess. Check out my recommend coconut milk brands to use in smoothies.
• Spinach: Creates a natural green color without food coloring
• Fresh mint leaves: Gives that classic shamrock shake flavor profile. If you’re new to adding fresh herbs to smoothies, I recommend removing the stems before blending and just use the leaves.
• Banana: Thickens the shake and is a great natural sweetener in smoothies. I like to freeze bananas to have on hand to use in smoothies like this— it’s a great way to chill them down without needing ice (which can dull your blender blade overtime)
• Medjool dates: Balances the banana taste by provide caramel-like sweetness with fiber
• Pure vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor and adds warmth

Topping Ideas

If you’re like me, and pick food based on looks as well as taste, then you definitely need some fun toppings for this vegan shamrock shake. Top with coconut whipped cream, then sprinkle with cacao nibs, and finish with a fresh cherry.

How to Make a Shamrock Shake

If you’re using one of my recommended blenders for smoothies, follow the steps below. If you have a low powdered blender, I recommend blending after step 2 and then again in step 4.

1. Add liquids first. Pour the chilled coconut milk into your blender to help everything blend smoothly.
2. Layer the greens and herbs. Add spinach and fresh mint so they break down fully.
3. Add fruit and sweeteners. Toss in the banana, pitted dates, and vanilla extract.
4. Blend until creamy. Start on low, then increase to high for 30–60 seconds.
5. Taste and adjust. Add more mint for freshness or a splash of coconut milk if it’s too thick.
6. Serve immediately. Pour into a glass and add toppings if desired.

More Dessert Smoothies

If this shamrock shake sparked your interest in more dessert smoothies, then try these other dessert smoothie recipes:

• Coconut joy smoothie bowl: Chocolatey, creamy, and topped with coconut for a dessert-inspired smoothie bowl made with real ingredients.
• Banana chocolate protein shake: Indulge in a velvety smooth, banana chocolate protein shake that’s not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition.
• Skinny mint smoothie: Cool, refreshing, and lightly sweet, this minty smoothie satisfies dessert cravings the lighter way.
• Chocolate smoothie bowl: Rich, fudgy, and ultra-creamy, this chocolate smoothie bowl feels indulgent but is made with just plants.

If you make this vegan shamrock shake recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below. Your feedback helps me and all the readers in this community. And if you’re interested in more plant-based recipes (and exclusive content), sign up for my weekly recipe newsletter.