Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Papaya Rose Milkshake Recipe – Easy Indian Summer Drink

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a refreshing drink to beat the Indian summer heat. And honestly, this Papaya Rose Milkshake is my go-to. It’s creamy, fragrant, and just…happy! I first made this when my niece was visiting, and she absolutely adored it – now it’s a family favourite. Let’s get into it, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This milkshake isn’t just delicious; it’s incredibly easy to make! It comes together in under 5 minutes, requires minimal ingredients, and is a fantastic way to use up ripe papayas. Plus, the delicate rose flavour combined with the sweetness of papaya is a match made in heaven. It’s a little bit of luxury in a glass, perfect for a hot afternoon.

Ingredients

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

• 2 cups papaya cubes (about 300g)
• 1 cup chilled milk (240ml)
• 2 scoops vanilla ice cream (about 100g)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (25g) – adjust to taste!
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder (1g)
• 1 tablespoon rose syrup (15ml)
• ¼ cup mixed nuts and dried fruits (almonds, cashews, tutti frutti, raisins, glazed cherries) (30g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because a few little things can make a big difference.

Papaya Varieties & Ripeness

I prefer using the Indian papaya (also known as Formosa papaya) for this recipe – it’s beautifully sweet and has a vibrant orange colour. But any ripe papaya will work! You want it to be soft to the touch, but not mushy. A perfectly ripe papaya will yield slightly when gently pressed.

Rose Syrup – Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Rose syrup adds that signature floral aroma. You can absolutely use store-bought – it’s readily available in most Indian grocery stores. But if you’re feeling ambitious, making your own is surprisingly easy! There are tons of recipes online.

The Significance of Cardamom in Indian Drinks

Cardamom isn’t just a flavour; it’s a tradition! It’s used in so many Indian sweets and drinks for its cooling properties and delightful fragrance. A little goes a long way, so don’t overdo it.

Chilled Milk – Full Fat vs. Low Fat Options

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

Vanilla Ice Cream – Choosing the Right Flavor Profile

A good quality vanilla ice cream is key. I like using a French vanilla for a more intense flavour, but any vanilla ice cream you enjoy will work perfectly.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get blending!

1. First, add the papaya cubes, chilled milk, vanilla ice cream, sugar, and cardamom powder to your blender.
2. Now, blend everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Don’t be afraid to scrape down the sides of the blender a couple of times to make sure everything is incorporated.
3. Next, gently stir in the chopped nuts, dried fruits, and raisins. This adds a lovely texture and extra sweetness.
4. Finally, pour the milkshake into glasses. Top with another scoop of ice cream, a sprinkle of nuts, a drizzle of rose syrup, and a glazed cherry for that extra touch of fancy! Serve immediately and enjoy.

Expert Tips

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

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

If your milkshake is too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, add another scoop of ice cream. It’s all about finding that perfect balance!

Preventing Separation

Sometimes milkshakes can separate after a while. To prevent this, add a tiny pinch of xanthan gum (about 1/8 teaspoon) to the blender. It’s a natural stabilizer and will keep everything beautifully combined.

Enhancing the Rose Flavor

For a more intense rose flavour, you can add a few drops of rose water along with the rose syrup. Be careful though – rose water is potent!

Blending Techniques for a Smooth Milkshake

Pulse the blender a few times before switching to a continuous blend. This helps to break down the papaya and ice cream more evenly.

Variations

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

Vegan Papaya Rose Milkshake

Simply swap the dairy milk for your favourite plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work well) and use a vegan vanilla ice cream. My friend, Priya, swears by coconut-based ice cream in this!

Gluten-Free Adaptation (Naturally Gluten-Free)

Good news! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check that your rose syrup and any toppings you use are also gluten-free.

Spice Level – Adding a Hint of Ginger or Saffron

For a little warmth, add a tiny piece of grated ginger to the blender. Or, for a truly luxurious touch, infuse a few saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk and add that to the milkshake.

Festival Adaptations – Perfect for Holi or Summer Celebrations

During Holi, I like to add a pinch of kesar (saffron) for a vibrant colour and flavour. It’s a festive touch!

Sugar-Free Option

Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol to make this milkshake sugar-free. Adjust the amount to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

This milkshake is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving:

• Garnish with a sprinkle of rose petals (make sure they’re food-grade!).
• Serve with a side of crunchy biscuits or cookies.
• Pair it with a light Indian snack like namak pare.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this milkshake is best enjoyed immediately. But if you absolutely have leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to an hour. It will separate, so you’ll need to re-blend it before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

Can I use frozen papaya for this milkshake?

Yes, you can! Frozen papaya will make the milkshake even thicker. You might need to add a little extra milk to reach your desired consistency.

What is the best type of milk to use for a creamy milkshake?

Full-fat milk will give you the creamiest results. But any milk you like will work!

Can I make this milkshake ahead of time?

It’s best to make it right before serving, as it can separate.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the milkshake?

Start with 2 tablespoons of sugar and add more to taste. Remember, the papaya and rose syrup also contribute sweetness.

What are some other fruits I can add to this milkshake?

Mango, banana, or pineapple would all be delicious additions!

Is rose syrup readily available in stores, or do I need to make it?

It’s usually available in Indian grocery stores. If you can’t find it, making your own is a fun project!

Enjoy this little slice of summer in a glass! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and how it turns out for you. Happy blending!