Being an ardent fan of the intricacies of food flavors and the magic they can weave into our daily lives, I couldn’t resist diving deep into the heart of what makes the Del Taco Cookie Butter Shake a standout.
There’s something inherently warming and satisfying about transforming a simple snack into an indulgent drink. Inspired by the ingenious concoction by Del Taco, incorporating the irresistible charm of Lotus Biscoff cookies into a thick, creamy shake, I found myself on a mission. A mission to recreate this bijou of desserts, to bring a slice (or sip) of joy into our lives whenever the craving strikes. Whether you missed its seasonal appearance, live too far from a Del Taco, or simply yearn to add a personal twist to your shake, you’re in the right place.
How to make Del Taco Cookie Butter Shake
The Del Taco Cookie Butter Shake is a dessert item offered by Del Taco, a fast-food chain known for its Mexican-inspired menu. This shake combines vanilla ice cream with cookie butter—a sweet, spreadable mix made from crushed cookies—creating a rich and creamy treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream: High-quality ice cream ensures a creamy, rich base.
- 1/4 cup milk: Adjust the amount to reach your desired shake consistency.
- 3 tablespoons cookie butter: Lotus Biscoff spread is ideal for achieving that authentic cookie butter taste.
- 2 Lotus Biscoff cookies: One for blending into the shake and one for garnishing.
- Whipped cream: For topping your shake, because indulgence is key.
- A dash of cinnamon (optional): For an extra hint of warmth and spice.
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything close at hand makes the blending process smoother and ensures you don’t miss any steps.
- Blend the Base: In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, cookie butter, and one Lotus Biscoff cookie broken into smaller pieces. Blend on high until the mixture achieves a smooth and creamy consistency. If you find the mixture too thick, feel free to add a bit more milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired thickness.
- Taste and Adjust: Give your shake a quick taste. If you desire more of that cookie butter flavor, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of cookie butter and blend again.
- Serve with Flair: Pour your perfectly blended shake into a chilled glass. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, crumble the remaining Biscoff cookie for garnish, and if you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the top for an added spice kick.
- Enjoy: Insert a straw, dig in with a spoon, or simply sip and enjoy the creamy delight of your homemade Del Taco Cookie Butter Shake.
Tips for Perfecting Your Shake:
- Chill Your Glass: Before serving, chill your glass in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes. This little trick helps keep your shake cold and delicious for longer.
- Quality Ingredients: The quality of ice cream and cookie butter significantly impacts the overall taste of your shake. Opt for premium vanilla ice cream and genuine Lotus Biscoff cookie butter for the best flavor.
- Customize Your Consistency: The beauty of homemade is making it exactly how you like it. Tweak the amount of milk based on whether you prefer a thicker or a more sippable shake.
- Experiment with Toppings: While whipped cream and cookie crumbles are classic, don’t shy away from trying other toppings like chocolate shavings, a caramel drizzle, or even a dash of espresso powder for a coffee-infused twist.
What to serve with
Pairing the right accompaniments with your homemade Del Taco Cookie Butter Shake can elevate your experience. Given the shake’s rich and creamy texture, along with its sweet and slightly spiced flavor, you’ll want to complement it with snacks that enhance or balance these characteristics.
1. Savory Sandwiches
A contrast of flavors can be as exciting as it sounds. Pair your sweet shake with a mini savory sandwich for a balance of tangy and sweet. Consider a classic grilled cheese with a gourmet twist—like adding caramelized onions or a slice of heirloom tomato for depth. The buttery, crispy bread alongside the melted cheese contrasts beautifully with the sweet, creamy shake, providing a satisfying culinary experience.
2. Sweet Belgian Waffles
If you’re doubling down on sweetness, a freshly made Belgian waffle can be a great companion to your cookie butter shake. The waffle’s light and crisp exterior and soft, airy interior make it the perfect vehicle for toppings. Drizzle it with maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of cookie butter for an added tie-in to your shake. This combination is particularly perfect for brunch or a decadent dessert.
3. Salted Pretzels
For those who love the contrast of salty and sweet, soft salted pretzels are an excellent choice. The saltiness of the pretzel not only complements the sweetness of the shake but also enhances its flavors, making each sip afterwards even more delightful. If you’re feeling adventurous, dipping the pretzels directly into the shake can be a uniquely tasty experience.
4. Fruit Platter
A brightly colored fresh fruit platter can be a refreshing and lighter option to serve alongside your cookie butter shake. Opt for fruits like strawberries, apple slices, or banana pieces that pair well with the cinnamon and cookie butter flavors. The natural sweetness and slight acidity of the fruits provide a refreshing palate cleanser between sips of the shake.
5. Assorted Nuts
A bowl of assorted nuts, including almonds, walnuts, and pecans, offers a crunchy contrast to the smoothness of your shake. Nuts carry earthy flavors that go well with the spice notes in the cookie butter, and their inherent saltiness can elevate the overall taste experience. Plus, they’re packed with energy, making them a great snack to keep you going.
6. Coffee or Tea
Beverage pairings can also be a delightful way to enjoy your shake. A cup of strong, black coffee or a robust tea-like chai can complement the sweet and spicy notes of the shake. The warmth of the coffee or tea alongside the cold, creamy shake creates a pleasant contrast that’s perfect for relaxing afternoons or as an after-dinner treat.
Ingredients Substitutes
Making a homemade version of Del Taco Cookie Butter Shake offers a wonderful opportunity to customize the treat according to dietary restrictions or personal taste preferences.
For the Milk:
- Non-Dairy Milk: Almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or oat milk can replace cow’s milk to make the shake dairy-free or vegan. Each type of milk will introduce its unique flavor, with coconut and oat being naturally sweeter options.
For the Cookie Butter:
- Nut Butter: If you’re allergic to the specific ingredients in cookie butter or are looking for a different taste, various nut butter such as almond, cashew, or peanut butter offer great alternatives. They introduce a nutty flavor that blends well with the sweetness of the other ingredients.
- Sunflower Seed Butter: A nut-free alternative that provides a creamy texture and distinctive flavor, suitable for those with nut allergies.
- Homemade Cookie Butter Substitute: Blend your choice of nut butter with crushed ginger pop cookies or cinnamon graham crackers for a homemade twist that gets close to the original flavor.
For the Cookies:
- Alternative Cookies: Any spiced cookie can substitute if you can’t find Speculoos or Biscoff cookies. Gingersnaps or cinnamon graham crackers are excellent alternatives.
- Gluten-Free Options: To make the shake gluten-free, use gluten-free cookies of a similar flavor profile.
For the Whipped Cream:
- Dairy-Free Whipped Cream: Coconut whipped cream or any store-bought dairy-free whipped topping can replace traditional whipped cream for those avoiding dairy.
- Skip or Substitute: Though whipped cream adds to the presentation and texture, the shake can also be enjoyed without it. Alternatively, a dollop of Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative) can offer a tangy contrast.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own Del Taco Cookie Butter Shake at home not only satisfies those sudden cravings but also opens up a world of customization.
More Cookie Butter Recipes:
- Cookie Butter Cheesecake Recipe
- Dunkin’ Cookie Butter Cold Brew Recipe
- Biscoff Cookie Butter Cheesecake Recipe
- Homemade Coffee Bean Cookie Butter Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla ice cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons cookie butter
- 2 Lotus Biscoff cookies
- Whipped cream
- A dash of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything close at hand makes the blending process smoother and ensures you don't miss any steps.
- Blend the Base: In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, cookie butter, and one Lotus Biscoff cookie broken into smaller pieces. Blend on high until the mixture achieves a smooth and creamy consistency. If you find the mixture too thick, feel free to add a bit more milk a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired thickness.
- Taste and Adjust: Give your shake a quick taste. If you desire more of that cookie butter flavor, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of cookie butter and blend again.
- Serve with Flair: Pour your perfectly blended shake into a chilled glass. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, crumble the remaining Biscoff cookie for garnish, and if you're feeling adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the top for an added spice kick.
- Enjoy: Insert a straw, dig in with a spoon, or simply sip and enjoy the creamy delight of your homemade Del Taco Cookie Butter Shake.
