If you have a Ninja Creami and a ripe banana sitting on your counter, you are about 5 minutes away from the creamiest banana milkshake of your life. This recipe uses just 3 simple ingredients and the whole family goes absolutely crazy for it every single time.
I've been playing around with simple Creami combos, and this one? A total winner. Just 3 ingredients. No fuss. And the flavor? Think banana cream pie meets retro diner milkshake. It's also the perfect base for toppings, crushed cookies, chocolate drizzle, a swirl of peanut butter... go wild. And hey, if you're also obsessed with your Ninja Creami like I am, try my Ninja Creami Mango Sorbet or this Strawberry Sorbet version next!
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The ingredients
Vanilla ice cream - You can use store-bought or homemade. I went with a classic, good-quality vanilla for that old-school flavor.
Banana - Make sure it's ripe. Not too brown, but definitely not green. You want that natural sweetness and smooth texture.
Milk - Just a splash! Whole milk makes it creamier, but honestly, any milk or milk alternative works fine.
For quantities see recipe card below
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Ninja Creami Banana Milkshake
Blend the base.
In your Ninja Creami pint, add the vanilla ice cream, banana (broken into chunks), and milk.
Freeze.
Yes, this step matters. Freeze the pint for 24 hours - or until solid.
Spin it.
Once frozen, insert the pint into your Ninja Creami and use the "Milkshake" function. Let the magic happen.
Check the texture.
If it's too thick (especially if your banana was on the firmer side), add 1-2 tablespoons more milk and re-spin.
Serve it up.
Pour into a tall glass, grab a straw, and add your favorite toppings if you're feeling extra.
Tips for Success
- Use a very ripe banana for that classic banana milkshake flavor, the kind you'd normally toss into banana bread.
- Don't skip the freeze time. I know it's tempting, but you'll get a better texture if you wait.
- Want it thicker? Add a little less milk before freezing. Want it thinner? Splash more in after spinning.
- Let the pint sit on the counter for 5 minutes before spinning if it's rock-hard from the freezer.
Variations
- Chocolate banana milkshake - Add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder or a swirl of chocolate syrup before freezing.
- Peanut butter banana - Add a spoonful of peanut butter to the base. OMG.
- Strawberry twist - Add a handful of chopped strawberries for a banana split vibe.
- Dairy-free - Use plant-based ice cream and milk, it still comes out deliciously creamy!
Serving Ideas
- Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry on top - total retro vibes.
- Add crushed cookies, sprinkles, or chopped nuts for extra texture.
- Pair it with a summer sandwich or a light lunch bowl to make it feel like a full meal. (Okay, maybe that's just me...)
Storage Tips
- If you have leftovers (you won't), re-freeze in the same pint and re-spin before serving.
- I don't recommend keeping it in the fridge, the texture just doesn't hold up.
FAQs
Can I use frozen banana instead?
Not for this one. It'll mess with the Creami's spinning and might make the texture icy. Use a fresh, ripe banana.
Do I have to use vanilla ice cream?
Nope! Try chocolate or caramel swirl if you're feeling adventurous. But vanilla really lets the banana shine
What's the best milk to use?
Whole milk gives the richest result, but oat milk, almond milk, or even lactose-free all work fine!
Creamy Ninja Creami Banana Milkshake
Equipment
- Ninja Creami
- Freezer-safe pint container
- Spoon or spatula
- Tall glass or mason jar
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 ripe banana
- ¼ cup milk plus more if needed
Instructions
- Add vanilla ice cream, banana chunks, and milk to your Ninja Creami pint.
- Freeze for at least 24 hours.
- After freezing, insert the pint into your Ninja Creami and run the Milkshake function.
- If the texture is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk and re-spin.
- Pour into a glass, top with whipped cream or extras if you'd like, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use a ripe banana - the spottier, the better.
- Let the pint sit for 5-10 minutes before spinning for best results.
- For a dairy-free version, swap in non-dairy milk and ice cream.
- Want a thicker shake? Use less milk in the base or add mix-ins after spinning.
Sophie Viau says
This Ninja Creami Banana Milkshake is next-level creamy! I love how the banana adds natural sweetness and that thick, dreamy texture. It’s the perfect treat when I want something fast, cool, and a little nostalgic.