Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Mango Milkshake Recipe – Rosewater & Saffron Indian Summer Drink

Introduction

Oh, mangoes! Just the word conjures up images of sunny days and sweet, juicy goodness, doesn’t it? This Mango Milkshake recipe is my go-to when the weather heats up and I’m craving something cool, creamy, and utterly refreshing. It’s a little bit special, though – we’re adding a touch of rosewater and saffron to really elevate it. I first made this for a family gathering and it was gone in minutes! It’s seriously that good. Let’s get blending!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any mango milkshake. It’s a flavour explosion! The sweetness of the mangoes is perfectly balanced by the floral notes of rosewater and the subtle, luxurious aroma of saffron. It’s incredibly easy to make, requires just a handful of ingredients, and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a beautiful drink – the saffron strands make it look so elegant!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this dreamy milkshake:

• 2 cups ripe mango (chopped) – about 300g
• 1 cup vanilla ice cream – about 240ml
• 1/2 cup milk – about 120ml
• 1/4 tsp rosewater – about 1.25ml
• Pinch of saffron strands – about 5-10 strands

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Mango Selection – Choosing the Right Variety

The star of the show is, of course, the mango! Alphonso mangoes are amazing if you can get your hands on them – they’re incredibly fragrant and sweet. But honestly, any ripe, sweet mango will work beautifully. Kesar, Dasheri, or even Tommy Atkins are great options. You’ll need about 2 medium-sized mangoes.

The Aroma of Rosewater – A Traditional Touch

Rosewater adds such a lovely, delicate floral flavour. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it! You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online. If you’re unsure, start with a tiny splash and add more to taste.

Saffron – The Spice of Royalty & Its Benefits

Saffron is often called the ‘red gold’ and for good reason! It’s the most expensive spice in the world, but a tiny pinch adds so much flavour and a beautiful golden hue. Beyond the flavour, saffron is also known for its health benefits.

Ice Cream – Enhancing Creaminess & Flavor

I prefer vanilla ice cream because it lets the mango flavour shine. But you could experiment with mango ice cream for an extra mango boost, or even a little cardamom ice cream for a unique twist.

Milk – Full Fat vs. Low Fat Options

I usually use full-fat milk for a richer, creamier milkshake. However, you can absolutely use low-fat milk or even a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk if you prefer. It will slightly affect the texture, but it will still be delicious!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some magic!

1. Peel and chop your ripe mangoes, reserving a few small chunks for garnish.
2. In a blender, combine the chopped mangoes, vanilla ice cream, milk, rosewater, and saffron strands.
3. Blend until everything is smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.
4. Pour the milkshake into chilled glasses – fill them about ¾ full.
5. Top with a scoop of ice cream, fresh mango chunks, chopped nuts (pistachios or almonds are lovely!), cherries, or tutti frutti.
6. Garnish with a few saffron strands or rose petals.
7. Serve immediately with a straw and a spoon. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make this milkshake perfect:

• Achieving the Perfect Consistency: If you like a thicker milkshake, use less milk or add a few ice cubes. For a thinner shake, add more milk.
• Keeping Your Glasses Chilled: Pop your glasses in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before serving. It makes a huge difference!
• Blending Techniques for a Smooth Shake: Start blending on low speed and gradually increase to high. This helps to create a smooth, creamy texture.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Mango Milkshake: Use plant-based ice cream (coconut or cashew work well) and plant-based milk.
• Mango Lassi Variation (Yogurt-Based): Replace the ice cream with ½ cup of plain yogurt for a tangy, refreshing lassi-style drink. My grandmother always made it this way!
• Spice Level – Adding a Hint of Cardamom or Ginger: A tiny pinch of cardamom powder or a small piece of grated ginger can add a lovely warmth and complexity.
• Festival Adaptations – Mango Milkshake for Holi or Summer Celebrations: Add a sprinkle of edible glitter for a festive touch, especially for Holi!

Serving Suggestions

This milkshake is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• Light snacks like biscuits or cookies.
• Indian sweets like gulab jamun or rasgulla (a little indulgence never hurt anyone!).
• A simple fruit salad.

Storage Instructions

This milkshake is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 hours. It will separate, so you’ll need to re-blend it before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Can I use frozen mangoes for this milkshake? Yes, absolutely! Frozen mangoes are a great option, especially if fresh mangoes aren’t in season. You might need to add a little extra liquid to help it blend.
• What is the best type of milk to use for a richer milkshake? Full-fat milk will give you the richest, creamiest milkshake.
• How can I adjust the sweetness of the milkshake? If you prefer a sweeter milkshake, add a tablespoon of sugar or honey.
• Can I make this milkshake ahead of time? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the mangoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
• What are the benefits of adding saffron to this recipe? Saffron adds a unique flavour and aroma, and it’s also known for its antioxidant properties.