
Horlicks Ice Cream Shake
Global • Non-Vegetarian
How to Make Horlicks Ice Cream Shake (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Horlicks Ice Cream Shake is a delightful beverage that brings together the nostalgic malty flavor of Horlicks with the cooling richness of ice cream, making it a favorite among children and adults alike across India. Popularly enjoyed during the scorching summer months, this shake is often served as a special treat at home, especially after school or during festive gatherings. The blend of Horlicks, a malted milk drink cherished in Indian households for decades, with creamy vanilla ice cream offers a unique fusion of taste and nutrition. This shake is not just a sweet indulgence, but also a wholesome drink that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs. It is often served during family celebrations, birthday parties, and even during Indian festivals like Holi and Children’s Day, when refreshing and nourishing treats are in high demand. The addition of nuts and seeds, like badam (almonds) and pumpkin seeds, adds a subtle crunch and boosts the nutrient profile, while using toned dudh (milk) and natural sweeteners keeps it light and health-conscious. Its creamy texture, combined with the hint of malt, makes Horlicks Ice Cream Shake a beloved beverage that resonates with Indian culinary traditions.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (approx. 250 ml))
- 2 cups Toned milk (dudh) (chilled)
- 3 tablespoons Horlicks powder (classic malt variant)
- 2 scoops Vanilla ice cream (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon Honey (as a natural sweetener) - optional
- 6-8 Almonds (badam) (finely chopped) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Pumpkin seeds (for garnish) - optional
- 4-6 Ice cubes (optional, for extra chill) - optional
- 1/4 teaspoon Cardamom powder (elaichi) (for flavor) - optional
- 1/2 teaspoon Cocoa powder (optional, for chocolatey twist) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a blender, add chilled toned milk and Horlicks powder. Blend until the malt powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is frothy.
3 minutes
Use chilled dudh for a smoother texture and enhanced taste.
- 2
Add vanilla ice cream to the blender along with honey and cardamom powder (if using). Blend again till the mixture is creamy and well combined.
3 minutes
Blending in short pulses helps preserve the airy texture.
- 3
Toss in a few ice cubes and blend for a few seconds just until crushed.
1 minute
Do not over-blend after adding ice to avoid dilution.
- 4
Pour the shake equally into two tall glasses.
1 minute
Chill the glasses in advance for a refreshing serving experience.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Horlicks Ice Cream Shake recipe uses toned milk and honey, reducing overall fat and refined sugar content. The inclusion of nuts and seeds increases the fiber and micronutrient value, while blending in natural flavors like elaichi keeps it aromatic without extra calories. It's a satisfying, energy-boosting beverage that can be enjoyed guilt-free as part of a balanced vegetarian diet.
Horlicks Ice Cream Shake, when prepared with toned milk and natural sweeteners, offers a good balance of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins like B12 and D. The addition of almonds and pumpkin seeds boosts the shake’s healthy fats, magnesium, and zinc content. Cardamom aids digestion, and honey provides antioxidants. By using reduced-fat dudh and controlling the amount of ice cream, this shake can be enjoyed as a nutritious treat without excessive calories or sugar, while also providing a small protein boost.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Always use cold dudh and ingredients for a creamier shake.
- 💡Tip 2: For extra nutrition, blend in a teaspoon of chia seeds.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust sweetness gradually; Horlicks itself is mildly sweet.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed immediately for optimal taste and texture. If needed, the base shake (without ice cream and garnish) can be refrigerated for up to 12 hours. Add ice cream and toppings just before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 320.0 kcal |





