Milkshakes have come a long way from the basic chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry trio. While those classics still hold their own, the world of shakes has exploded into a playground of creativity—where toppings get stacked high, flavors get remixed, and every sip is an adventure.

Whether you're a shake traditionalist looking to branch out or a dessert daredevil seeking your next sweet obsession, there’s a whole universe of bold and unexpected combinations waiting to blow your mind (and your taste buds).

Let’s dive into some of the most creative shake combinations you need to try—plus a few tips on how to build your own epic milkshake masterpiece.

1. The Fluffernutter Shake

Peanut Butter + Marshmallow Cream + Vanilla Ice Cream

This nostalgic combo takes inspiration from the classic fluffernutter sandwich and transforms it into shake form. Imagine rich, creamy peanut butter swirled with marshmallow fluff, blended into a vanilla ice cream base. The result? A silky, sweet-and-salty dream that’ll remind you of lunchboxes and Saturday morning cartoons.

Pro Tip: Add crushed Nutter Butters or mini marshmallows on top for extra crunch and visual flair.

2. Cookies & Dream

Cookies & Cream Ice Cream + Chocolate Syrup + Crushed Oreos + Whipped Cream

Yes, cookies and cream shakes are everywhere—but this version levels up the experience. Start with cookies & cream ice cream, blend it with chocolate syrup, and load it up with extra crushed Oreos for texture. The name says it all: it’s a dreamy, chocolatey overload that’s impossible to resist.

Fun Add-on: Ask for a whole Oreo cookie perched on top, dipped halfway in chocolate. It makes the shake photo-ready and gives you a crunchy surprise at the end.

3. Strawberry Shortcake Shake

Strawberry Ice Cream + Fresh Strawberries + Crumbled Shortbread Cookies + Whipped Cream

Take a slice of strawberry shortcake, blend it up, and you get this fruity, cake-inspired shake. The key is using real strawberries (not syrup) to get that juicy burst of flavor, then mixing in shortbread crumbles for that classic cake texture.

Extra Touch: Garnish with a fresh strawberry and shortbread cookie piece for presentation.

4. The Morning Buzz

Coffee Ice Cream + Chocolate Syrup + Crushed Espresso Beans + Whipped Cream

Why not turn your morning caffeine into a dessert? The Morning Buzz is perfect for coffee lovers who want their energy boost blended with something sweet. Start with coffee ice cream, blend in a shot of cold brew or espresso, drizzle chocolate syrup, and top it off with whipped cream and crushed espresso beans.

Why It Works: The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the shake, making it dangerously drinkable.

5. Birthday Cake Bash

Cake Batter Ice Cream + Rainbow Sprinkles + Frosting Swirl + Crumbled Cake Pieces

This shake doesn’t just taste like cake—it is cake. Blend cake batter ice cream with real cake crumbles and a frosting swirl to get that fresh-from-the-bakery feel. Finish with whipped cream and a mountain of sprinkles, and you’ve got a party in a cup.

Fun Fact: This is a top pick for birthdays, obviously, but we say it’s worth celebrating any day.

6. Banana Split Remix

Vanilla Ice Cream + Banana + Strawberry + Chocolate Drizzle + Crushed Peanuts + Cherry on Top

Turn the iconic banana split into a next-level shake. It’s got all the flavors you know and love—banana, strawberry, chocolate—but blended for sip-ability. Don’t forget the cherry on top; that’s a rule.

Why Try It: It’s fruity, creamy, nutty, and chocolatey. Basically, every dessert craving in one drink.

7. Reese Cup Explosion

Peanut Butter + Chocolate Ice Cream + Chopped Reese’s Cups + Chocolate Syrup

This one is for the peanut butter fanatics. Take chocolate ice cream and swirl it with smooth peanut butter, then add generous chunks of Reese’s Cups. The texture of the candy mixed with the rich base makes it an instant classic.

Bonus Round: Add crushed pretzels for a salty crunch that balances out the sweetness perfectly.

8. S’mores Shake

Chocolate Ice Cream + Marshmallow Fluff + Crushed Graham Crackers + Toasted Marshmallow Garnish

You don’t need a campfire for this one. A good s’mores shake captures all the elements—rich chocolate, gooey marshmallow, and crunchy graham crackers—in every sip. Top it off with a toasted marshmallow and a mini Hershey bar for authenticity.

Fun Hack: Ask for a graham cracker rim around the glass for extra style points.

9. The Elvis

Banana + Peanut Butter + Vanilla Ice Cream + Crumbled Bacon (Optional)

Inspired by Elvis Presley’s legendary sandwich obsession, this shake goes bold. Bananas and peanut butter are already a match made in dessert heaven, but the optional crispy bacon bits? That’s rock-and-roll-level indulgence.

Surprisingly Good: Bacon adds a smoky, salty twist that elevates the sweetness of the shake without overpowering it.

10. The Mint Chocolate Crunch

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream + Chocolate Syrup + Crushed Andes Mints + Chocolate Chips

Cool, refreshing, and just a little bit crunchy—this shake has the best of both worlds. The chocolate chips and Andes mints give it texture and depth, while the minty base keeps it from feeling too heavy.

Tip: Add a swirl of white chocolate drizzle for a peppermint bark effect.

Want to see our full list of shakes? Read Cookie Dough Monster's Menu

How to Build Your Own Creative Shake

Want to invent your own masterpiece? Here’s a quick guide to making creative combinations at home—or customizing your next order at your favorite shake spot.

Step 1: Start with a Strong Base

Choose your base ice cream. It could be classic vanilla or something bolder like cake batter, coffee, or cookies & cream.

Step 2: Choose Your Theme

Think in terms of flavor themes—do you want fruity, chocolatey, nutty, or nostalgic? Once you pick a theme, the rest comes together naturally.

Step 3: Add Layers of Texture

Great shakes don’t just taste good—they feel good. Add crunchy elements like crushed cookies, cereal, nuts, or candy pieces.

Step 4: Don’t Forget the Toppings

Whipped cream, drizzles, sprinkles, whole cookies, fruit slices—go big or go home. Toppings make your shake both photo-worthy and more fun to eat.

Step 5: Balance is Key

Make sure you’re not going too sweet or too rich. Sometimes a pinch of salt, a bit of citrus, or a touch of bitterness (like espresso or dark chocolate) can balance everything out.

Where to Find the Best Creative Shakes

If you're looking to try some of these mind-blowing combos without making a mess at home, head over to your favorite shake spot. And if you're in Pigeon Forge, there's no better place than Cookie Dough Monster.

At Cookie Dough Monster, we specialize in handcrafted shakes that go beyond the basics. Using Hershey’s Old Fashioned ice cream, real ingredients, and bold combinations, we’ve created a menu that’s both indulgent and one-of-a-kind.

Here are a few customer favorites:

• Fluffernutter Shake – Peanut butter and marshmallow heaven.
• Strawberry Banana Shake – Made with real fruit, not syrup.
• Reese Cup Shake – Because chocolate and peanut butter never go out of style.

Whether you're trying something new or returning for your favorite, Cookie Dough Monster is your go-to for unforgettable shake experiences.

Final Sip: Shake Up Your Dessert Game

There’s a reason milkshakes have stood the test of time—they’re endlessly versatile, wildly fun, and delicious in every form. With so many flavors and combos to explore, there’s no excuse to stick with boring options.

Next time you’re looking for a dessert that surprises, satisfies, and maybe even sparks a little childhood joy, go for a shake that pushes the limits. Whether it’s topped with cake, swirled with peanut butter, or spiked with espresso, the perfect shake is out there waiting for you to take the first sip.

Ready to explore your next favorite shake combo? Stop by Cookie Dough Monster or check out our full shake menu online—and get inspired to mix things up in the most delicious way possible.

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