Hey, Welcome to the Zaxby’s Birthday Cake Milkshake Recipe. Zaxby’s Birthday Cake Milkshake is a creamy, colorful dessert drink made with vanilla ice cream, cake flavoring, and rainbow sprinkles that tastes just like a slice of birthday cake in a glass.
I still remember the first time I tried a birthday cake milkshake—it instantly took me back to childhood parties with balloons, candles, and extra sprinkles on everything.
If you’re anything like me, you love fun, nostalgic desserts that are easy to make at home.
Today, I’m going to show you how you can recreate this Zaxby’s-inspired treat in your own kitchen, and trust me, you’re going to love every sip.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: American
Category: Drink
History and Origin
Zaxby’s is well-known across the United States for its chicken, sauces, and indulgent milkshakes.
The Birthday Cake Milkshake became popular as a limited-time treat, celebrating that classic American love for cake batter flavors and creamy desserts blended into one fun drink.
What does it taste like?
This milkshake tastes sweet, rich, and nostalgic, just like vanilla birthday cake with buttercream frosting.
You get a creamy vanilla base with subtle cake flavor, finished with crunchy rainbow sprinkles in every sip.
By the way, you can also try the Outback Steakhouse Volcano Shrimp Recipe.
Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making it:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vanilla ice cream | 3 cups |
| Whole milk | ¾ cup |
| Birthday cake flavor extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | ½ teaspoon |
| Whipped cream | For topping |
| Rainbow sprinkles | 2 tablespoons |
| White chocolate chips (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your recipe:
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall serving glasses
- Spoon or spatula
How to make Zaxby’s Birthday Cake Milkshake
Step 1: Add Ice Cream to Blender
I start by adding the vanilla ice cream to my blender. This creates that thick, creamy base that makes the milkshake taste just like Zaxby’s.
Step 2: Pour in Milk and Flavoring
Next, I pour in the whole milk, birthday cake flavor extract, and vanilla extract. You’ll notice the aroma instantly smells like cake batter.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
Blend everything on medium speed until smooth and creamy. If you like a thicker milkshake, you can add more ice cream. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk.
Step 4: Add Sprinkles
I gently stir in the rainbow sprinkles at the end so they don’t fully dissolve and give that fun birthday cake texture.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Pour the milkshake into tall glasses, top with whipped cream, and finish with extra sprinkles or white chocolate chips if you like.
Recipe Card
Zaxby’s Birthday Cake Milkshake Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- I start by adding the vanilla ice cream to my blender. This creates that thick, creamy base that makes the milkshake taste just like Zaxby’s.
- Next, I pour in the whole milk, birthday cake flavor extract, and vanilla extract. You’ll notice the aroma instantly smells like cake batter.
- Blend everything on medium speed until smooth and creamy. If you like a thicker milkshake, you can add more ice cream. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk.
- I gently stir in the rainbow sprinkles at the end so they don’t fully dissolve and give that fun birthday cake texture.
- Pour the milkshake into tall glasses, top with whipped cream, and finish with extra sprinkles or white chocolate chips if you like.
Notes
- I love serving this milkshake with crispy chicken tenders or fries for a true Zaxby’s-style experience.
- It’s also perfect as a dessert drink for birthdays, parties, or summer afternoons.
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the recipe:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 58 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17 g |
| Sugar | 46 g |
| Sodium | 210 mg |
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this milkshake with crispy chicken tenders or fries for a true Zaxby’s-style experience. It’s also perfect as a dessert drink for birthdays, parties, or summer afternoons.
Storage Tips
This milkshake is best enjoyed fresh, right after blending. If needed, you can store it in the freezer for up to 30 minutes and re-blend before serving to restore the creamy texture.
Why This Milkshake Is Perfect for Birthdays and Celebrations
I love how this milkshake instantly turns any ordinary day into a celebration. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or small win, this colorful drink feels festive and fun without needing a full cake.
Copycat Tips to Make It Taste Just Like Zaxby’s
If you want that authentic Zaxby’s flavor, I recommend using high-quality vanilla ice cream and not skipping the cake extract. Little details like blending time and garnish really make you feel like you ordered it in-store.
Best Ice Cream Choices for the Creamiest Texture
From my experience, premium vanilla ice cream with a higher fat content works best. You’ll notice a smoother, richer milkshake that holds its thickness longer, just like Zaxby’s serves.
Milkshake Thickness: How to Customize It Your Way
You’re in full control of the texture here. I’ll often adjust the milk depending on my mood—less milk for a spoonable shake, more milk when I want something easy to sip.
Fun Topping Ideas to Make It Extra Special
Beyond whipped cream and sprinkles, you can get creative with frosting drizzle, crushed cookies, or even a mini cupcake on top. I love how these small touches make it Instagram-worthy.
Kid-Friendly Dessert Drink Everyone Will Love
This is one of those recipes kids instantly fall in love with. I’ve noticed it’s perfect for birthday parties because it’s colorful, sweet, and feels like a treat made just for them.
Party-Size Scaling for Multiple Servings
If you’re hosting guests, doubling or tripling this recipe is super easy. I usually prep everything ahead so I can blend batches quickly without keeping anyone waiting.
Healthier Ingredient Swaps You Can Try
While this is an indulgent dessert, you can lighten it up slightly by using reduced-sugar ice cream or plant-based milk. I’ve tried it, and it still tastes delicious while feeling less heavy.
Conclusion
This Zaxby’s Birthday Cake Milkshake is fun, easy, and packed with nostalgic flavor. If you’re craving something sweet, creamy, and celebration-worthy, this recipe is exactly what you need.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. Please share this recipe with your loved ones and give it a 5-star rating at the end of the FAQs section if you enjoy it!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this milkshake without cake flavor extract?
Yes, you can skip it and add extra vanilla extract, but the cake flavor will be milder.
Is this recipe the same as Zaxby’s original milkshake?
It’s a close copycat version made with simple ingredients you can find anywhere in the U.S.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, but whole milk gives the creamiest and most authentic texture.
Can I make this milkshake vegan?
You can use dairy-free vanilla ice cream and plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
How do I make it extra thick?
Add more ice cream and reduce the milk slightly for a thicker, spoonable milkshake.
You will also like the Outback Steakhouse Ranch Dressing Recipe.
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