A Thick, Creamy, Vanilla-Drenched Classic Worth Every Damn Dollar
Mia Wallace said it best: “I don’t know if it’s worth five dollars... but it’s pretty f**in' good.”* This shake is exactly that. Inspired by the iconic Jack Rabbit Slim’s order in Pulp Fiction, the $5 Shake is ultra-thick, pure vanilla, and made with premium ice cream, whole milk, and a little extra attitude. No gimmicks. Just a true American diner-style milkshake that makes you want to sit in a red leather booth and talk about foot massages.
Ingredients
Serves 1 tall shake or 2 modest ones
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3 large scoops premium vanilla ice cream (about 1½ cups)
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½ cup whole milk, very cold
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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Pinch of sea salt (optional but elevates flavor)
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Optional: 1 tbsp malted milk powder for diner-style depth
To serve
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Fresh whipped cream
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Maraschino cherry
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Optional: metal cup, paper straw, and serious attitude
Instructions
In a blender, combine ice cream, milk, vanilla extract, and optional malted milk powder. Blend on low at first, then increase speed until smooth, thick, and pourable—about 30–45 seconds. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, throw in half a scoop more ice cream and reblend.
Pour into a tall chilled glass. Top with whipped cream and a cherry. Serve with a straw (preferably striped) and optional side of 1950s nostalgia.
Shake Tips
Use the best vanilla ice cream you can find—this shake is all about purity. French vanilla or bean-specked premium brands (like Häagen-Dazs or Van Leeuwen) will get you closest to $5 territory. For an even more classic feel, chill your glass before serving and use malted milk powder to give it that old-school diner edge.
