These salted caramel milkshakes are a delightful blend of creamy vanilla and caramel ice cream, rich caramel sauce, and a hint of salty pretzel, making them the perfect treat to enjoy with your loved ones.

There's something so sweet about the little moments we get to share with our children. Whether it's reading bedtime stories, going on a walk, or simply sitting down together for a treat, these moments are precious gifts that we cherish in our hearts. One of the ways I've found to create these special memories is by whipping up a delicious treat in the kitchen—something simple but made with love. And let me tell you, there's nothing that brings a smile to my kids' faces quite like a milkshake.

Now, I don't know about your family, but my kids are constantly asking for ice cream or milkshakes. It doesn't matter if it's the heat of summer or the chill of winter; their cravings are consistent! Most of the time, I'll scoop some ice cream into a bowl, drizzle it with a little chocolate or caramel syrup, and call it a day. But every now and then, when the stars align and the baby isn't in my arms, I like to get a little creative in the kitchen. Those are the days my kids get the "good treats."

One of our recent favorites has been a salted caramel milkshake that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. The first time I made these milkshakes, I was in one of those rare moments where I actually had a bit of free time and energy. The baby was happily occupied, and my older girls were looking for a snack. I decided to surprise them with something a little more special than the usual scoop of ice cream, and the salted caramel milkshake was born.

These milkshakes were an instant hit! My girls absolutely loved them, and now they’re regularly requested. I can’t say I blame them—there’s something irresistible about the combination of creamy ice cream, rich caramel, and a hint of salty pretzel. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and salty, smooth and crunchy.

Now, I have to confess something: I might sneak a few sips of their milkshakes when they’re not looking. And sometimes, I might just top off their glasses with a little extra whipped cream to make up for it. But that’s our little secret, right?

These salted caramel milkshakes are incredibly easy to make and only require a few simple ingredients. Whether you're making them for your kids, yourself, or a special occasion, they're sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Plus, they’re a great way to spend a few extra minutes together, sharing a sweet treat and making memories.

What You Need

• ½ Pint Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic base that adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the milkshake.
• ½ Pint Caramel Ice Cream: Enhances the caramel flavor and adds an extra layer of sweetness.
• ⅔ Cup Whole Milk: Helps to blend the ice cream into a smooth, drinkable consistency.
• ¼ Cup Caramel Sauce (plus more for garnish): The key ingredient that gives the milkshake its signature flavor. Using a high-quality caramel sauce makes all the difference.
• ⅛ Cup Salted Pretzels: Adds a delightful crunch and a touch of saltiness that complements the sweetness of the caramel.
• Whipped Topping: Because every milkshake is better with a dollop of whipped cream on top!

How to Make Salted Caramel Milkshakes

1. Start with the Ice Cream and Milk: In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, caramel ice cream, and milk. Blend until smooth. The ice cream will give the milkshake its thick, creamy texture, while the milk helps to achieve the perfect consistency. If your blender struggles a bit, just give it a few extra pulses to make sure everything is well-mixed.
2. Add the Caramel Sauce: Next, pour in the ¼ cup of caramel sauce. This is where the magic happens! The caramel sauce adds that deep, rich flavor that makes this milkshake truly special. I highly recommend using a high-quality caramel sauce—trust me, it’s worth it. Blend until the caramel is fully incorporated.
3. Crush the Pretzels: For that irresistible salty crunch, take your salted pretzels and crush them into a fine powder. I like to place them in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin to crush them. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t create a mess. Once your pretzels are crushed, add them to the blender and blend until everything is well mixed. The pretzels will add a subtle saltiness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the caramel and ice cream.
4. Garnish the Glasses: Before pouring the milkshake into your glasses, take a moment to add a little extra caramel sauce inside each glass. Just a small drizzle around the inside will do. This not only adds extra flavor but also gives the milkshakes a lovely, decadent look.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Pour the finished milkshake into your prepared glasses, top with a generous swirl of whipped cream, and garnish with a pretzel. The whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the richness of the milkshake, and the pretzel on top is the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—a simple, delicious treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving these milkshakes on a hot summer day or as a cozy winter treat, they’re guaranteed to bring joy to your home.

A Few Tips for the Perfect Salted Caramel Milkshake:

• Experiment with Ice Cream Flavors: While vanilla and caramel ice cream are my go-to choices, you can experiment with other flavors to create your own unique version of this milkshake. For example, chocolate ice cream would add a richer flavor, while a scoop of coffee ice cream could add a bit of sophistication for the grown-ups.
• Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker milkshake, use a little less milk. On the other hand, if you like your milkshake to be a bit more drinkable, feel free to add an extra splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Make It a Sundae: If you’re in the mood for something a little different, you can easily turn this milkshake into a sundae. Just scoop the ice cream into a bowl, drizzle with caramel sauce, sprinkle with crushed pretzels, and top with whipped cream. It’s a fun twist on the classic milkshake that’s just as delicious!
• Add Some Extras: If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can add some additional toppings to your milkshake. A drizzle of chocolate sauce, a handful of chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of sea salt would all be great additions.
• Make It a Family Affair: Get the kids involved in making these milkshakes! They can help scoop the ice cream, crush the pretzels, and add the toppings. It’s a fun and simple way to spend time together in the kitchen.

Creating Sweet Memories

At the end of the day, it’s not just about the milkshakes (although they are delicious!). It’s about the moments we create with our loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying these salted caramel milkshakes together on a warm summer afternoon or cuddled up inside on a chilly winter day, these are the moments that will stay with you.

Our lives can get so busy, filled with the hustle and bustle of daily routines, that sometimes we forget to slow down and savor the simple joys. But when we take the time to pause, gather our children around us, and share something as simple as a homemade treat, we’re creating lasting memories.

So the next time your kids ask for a snack, I encourage you to take a few extra minutes to make something special. These salted caramel milkshakes are a wonderful way to show your family a little extra love and create moments that you’ll all cherish.

Remember, it’s the love and care we put into the little things that make life sweet. So, whip up these milkshakes, share them with your loved ones, and enjoy the sweet, simple moments that make life so beautiful.

If you try this delicious salted caramel milkshake, I’d love to hear about it! Please leave a comment below and share your experience on Pinterest.