How To Thicken A Milkshake In A Nutribullet Without Ice Cream
To thicken a milkshake in a Nutribullet without ice cream, use frozen fruits, yogurt, or add oats for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Craving a thick, creamy milkshake but don’t have ice cream? Your Nutribullet can create the perfect texture using simple ingredients. This guide reveals professional techniques for rich, indulgent shakes without dairy or processed sugars.
Why Skip Ice Cream in Milkshakes?
Traditional milkshakes rely on ice cream for thickness, but many alternatives provide better nutrition and texture. Frozen fruits, yogurt, and healthy fats create satisfying shakes with benefits:
- Lower sugar content than commercial ice cream
- Added fiber and nutrients from whole foods
- Dairy-free and vegan options
- Customizable flavors and textures
Best Thickening Agents for Nutribullet Milkshakes
1. Frozen Bananas (The Ultimate Base)
Ripe frozen bananas create a creamy “nice cream” texture. For best results:
- Use bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness
- Peel and slice before freezing for easier blending
- Freeze for at least 4 hours (overnight is ideal)
Pro tip: Add 1 tbsp almond milk per banana to help blending.
2. Greek Yogurt or Skyr
These protein-packed options add thickness and tang:
Type | Protein | Texture |
---|---|---|
Greek Yogurt | 15-20g/serving | Ultra-creamy |
Icelandic Skyr | 20-25g/serving | Dense and rich |
3. Avocado (Secret Creaminess)
Avocados provide healthy fats and velvety texture:
- Use 1/4 avocado per serving
- Pair with cocoa powder for chocolate shakes
- Add lemon juice to prevent browning
4. Nut Butters
Natural thickeners that add protein and flavor:
- Almond butter – 1 tbsp per serving
- Cashew butter – blends smoothly
- Tahini – for unique savory-sweet shakes
Advanced Thickening Techniques
Layering Frozen Ingredients
Combine multiple frozen elements for maximum thickness:
- Frozen banana + frozen cauliflower rice
- Frozen mango + coconut cream
- Frozen berries + chia seeds
Using Xanthan Gum
This powerful thickener works wonders:
- Start with 1/8 tsp per serving
- Blend for 30+ seconds to activate
- Creates smooth, scoopable texture
Flavor Combinations That Thicken Naturally
Chocolate Peanut Butter
Ingredients:
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup oat milk
- Pinch of salt
Berry Yogurt
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Nutribullet Pro Tips
- Use the extractor blade for thicker results
- Pulse blend to prevent overheating
- Scrape sides every 15 seconds
- Chill your cup beforehand
For more blending techniques, check out our guide to the best blenders for milkshakes.