There’s something universally joyful about milkshakes. They bridge generations, spark nostalgia, and bring smiles to everyone from toddlers to grandparents. A good shake isn’t just dessert—it’s an experience. At Cookie Dough Monster, we believe shakes should be more than just a treat; they should be moments of laughter, creativity, and connection that everyone in the family can enjoy together.

Whether you’re crafting shakes at home or visiting your favorite dessert shop in Pigeon Forge, here’s how to make shakes fun for the whole family—and how we bring that magic to life every day.

The Joy of Family-Friendly Shakes

Shakes are one of those rare desserts that appeal to everyone. They’re customizable, colorful, and endlessly adaptable. Kids love watching the blender whirl their favorite ice cream into something frothy and thick, while adults get to indulge their inner child—without needing an excuse.

At Cookie Dough Monster, we’ve built our menu around that idea: bringing families together through handcrafted shakes, creative toppings, and a welcoming atmosphere that turns dessert into a memory. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth family outing this month, there’s always something new (and delicious) to discover.

👉 See what shakes your family will love most on our menu page.

Step 1: Start with the Classics Everyone Loves

When making shakes for a crowd, start simple. Classic flavors like Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry are universally loved and easy to customize. They serve as the perfect base for add-ons—whether it’s candy, fruit, or cookie pieces.

• Vanilla Shake: Smooth, creamy, and perfect for topping with sprinkles or caramel drizzle.
• Chocolate Shake: Rich and indulgent, especially when paired with whipped cream and crushed Oreos.
• Strawberry Shake: Fruity and refreshing, ideal for younger kids and anyone who loves fresh, sweet flavor.

These flavors also happen to be some of our bestsellers at Cookie Dough Monster—because no matter how many trends come and go, the classics never fail to please.

Step 2: Mix in Some Creativity

Here’s where the fun begins—experimenting with add-ins. Making shakes together becomes even more engaging when everyone can choose their favorite mix-ins. Set up a “shake bar” at home or let each family member pick a topping when visiting us in Pigeon Forge.

Some family-favorite shake ideas from our menu include:

• Cookies & Cream Shake – Made with real Oreo cookies for that crunchy-smooth blend everyone loves.
• Reese Cup Shake – Perfect for peanut butter lovers who can’t resist a chocolate twist.
• Fluffernutter Shake – A creative blend of peanut butter, marshmallow cream, and Hershey’s ice cream that delivers a unique flavor experience.
• Strawberry Banana Shake – For those who like a fruity balance that’s both sweet and refreshing.

Every shake on our menu is built to be both delicious and fun. That’s what makes it easy for families to mix, match, and share.

Check out all of our signature and classic shakes on the Cookie Dough Monster menu.

Step 3: Let Everyone Customize Their Own Shake

Nothing says family fun like personalization. Give each family member the freedom to create their own shake masterpiece. Whether you’re blending them at home or customizing one at our dessert shop, the process itself becomes part of the enjoyment.

Here are some ideas to spark creativity:

• Kids’ Choice: Add colorful sprinkles, gummy bears, or cookie dough chunks.
• Mom’s Treat: Go for something rich—like a peanut butter and chocolate swirl topped with whipped cream.
• Dad’s Classic: Stick with a Cookies & Cream or Chocolate shake, but add malt for a vintage diner feel.
• Teens’ Pick: Experiment with unique combos like strawberry and Nutella or banana and caramel.

At Cookie Dough Monster, we encourage creativity—it’s what makes each shake unique. And with a variety of premium toppings and add-ins, your family can make something truly their own every time.

Step 4: Add a Little Shake-Party Energy

Turning shake time into a full-blown family event takes things to another level. Here’s how:

• Make It a Game Night Treat: Pair shakes with family board games or a movie marathon.
• Try a “Flavor Challenge”: Everyone creates a shake, and you all vote for “Most Creative,” “Best Presentation,” or “Sweetest Surprise.”
• Use Fun Cups & Straws: Themed cups, striped straws, and even reusable mason jars make it festive.
• Let the Kids Help: Measuring, blending, or adding toppings gives them a sense of ownership—and makes it messily fun.

The key? Don’t take it too seriously. The best shake moments are the ones filled with laughter and sprinkles on the counter.

Step 5: Don’t Forget the Toppings

Toppings are where the fun really shines. A shake without toppings is like a birthday without candles. From whipped cream towers to drizzle art, toppings let your family get creative and add personality to every shake.

Some of our most popular toppings include:

• Whipped cream (of course!)
• Crushed Oreos or Reese’s Cups
• Marshmallow fluff
• Caramel or chocolate drizzle
• Sprinkles
• Fresh strawberries or bananas
• Cookie dough chunks (a Cookie Dough Monster specialty!)

If you want to see how it’s really done, drop by Cookie Dough Monster and try one of our over-the-top shakes—each one crafted with texture, flavor, and fun in mind. Browse all our creations on our menu.

Step 6: Pair Shakes with Family Favorites

One of the best parts about shakes is how easily they pair with food. Whether it’s a full meal or a simple snack, the contrast between savory and sweet makes for the ultimate comfort combo.

At Cookie Dough Monster, our burgers and fries are famous pairings for our hand-spun shakes. Some of our crowd-pleasers include:

• Classic Cheeseburger + Chocolate Shake – The salty-sweet duo that never misses.
• Loaded Fries + Vanilla Shake – Simple, crispy, and satisfying.
• BBQ Bacon Burger + Strawberry Shake – A mix of smoky, sweet, and fruity goodness.

When you pair shakes with family meals, dessert becomes part of the main event—not an afterthought.

Step 7: Celebrate with Shake Parties

Family celebrations don’t always need to be elaborate. Sometimes, a shake party is all it takes to make a day special. Birthdays, report card days, or even a “just because” Friday night can be the perfect excuse.

We love seeing families celebrate with us at Cookie Dough Monster. Our space is bright, welcoming, and built for happy memories. You can also bring the fun home with our catering options—we’ll bring the shakes to your event so you can enjoy that same playful energy anywhere.

Learn more about how we can make your next event extra sweet by checking out our catering page.

Step 8: Make It Educational (and Delicious)

For parents, shake-making can also be a sneaky educational moment. You can teach kids about measurements, taste balance, and even a little kitchen science while blending up their favorite flavors.

• Math Skills: Measuring milk, scooping ice cream, and counting toppings.
• Science Fun: Explaining how ice cream blends with milk to create that perfect consistency.
• Creativity Boost: Encouraging kids to experiment with flavor combinations teaches confidence and exploration.

It’s dessert with a purpose—and it tastes incredible, too.

Step 9: Explore New Flavors Together

Families that try new things together stay curious and connected. Shake time is the perfect opportunity to explore unique flavors as a group. At Cookie Dough Monster, we regularly feature new, seasonal flavors that everyone can get excited about.

From pumpkin spice in fall to berry blends in summer, there’s always something new to look forward to. Keep an eye on our menu for our latest limited-time creations.

You can even recreate the experience at home by voting on a “Flavor of the Week” and letting each family member invent a new shake recipe.

Step 10: Make It a Tradition

Finally, the best way to make shakes fun for the whole family is to turn it into a tradition. Maybe it’s “Shake Sundays,” where everyone gathers to make or buy a different shake each week. Or maybe it’s a family stop at Cookie Dough Monster every time you’re in Pigeon Forge.

These small rituals turn dessert into something more meaningful—shared moments that bring everyone closer together.

At Cookie Dough Monster, we’re honored to be part of those family memories. From our handcrafted shakes to our warm, inviting atmosphere, everything we do is about creating connection and joy.

So, the next time you’re looking for a treat that everyone—from the littlest to the oldest—can get behind, skip the ordinary and grab a shake that’s made for fun.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Shake Fun

1. Are Cookie Dough Monster shakes family-friendly?
Absolutely! Our shakes are designed for all ages, with options ranging from simple classics to fun, over-the-top creations.

2. Can we customize shakes for kids?
Yes! Kids love choosing their own toppings, and we’re happy to make smaller, kid-sized shakes too.

3. What are the most popular family shakes?
Favorites include Cookies & Cream, Strawberry Banana, and Reese Cup Shake—all available on our menu.

4. Do you have non-dairy options for shakes?
We offer dairy-free alternatives upon request so everyone in the family can enjoy a shake.

5. Can you cater family parties?
Definitely! Our catering service brings our famous shakes straight to your event.

6. Are your ingredients real and high-quality?
Yes, we use Hershey’s Old-Fashioned ice cream and fresh mix-ins for every shake.

7. What foods go best with shakes for family meals?
Our burgers and fries pair perfectly with any shake—it’s the ultimate comfort combo.

8. Can we order shakes to-go?
Of course! We make sure every shake stays thick, creamy, and delicious even on the go.

9. Do you offer special shakes for birthdays or holidays?
Yes, we feature seasonal and limited-time shakes throughout the year.

10. Where can we try these shakes?
Visit us in Pigeon Forge or check out our contact page to plan your next visit.

A Sweet Family Tradition Starts Here

When it comes down to it, milkshakes are more than just dessert—they’re shared smiles, laughter, and love in a cup. At Cookie Dough Monster, we’re proud to make every shake an experience worth remembering. Whether you’re mixing things up at home or stopping by for your favorite classic, making shakes together is one of life’s simplest—and sweetest—pleasures.

So gather the family, grab your favorite toppings, and get ready to make memories—one shake at a time.

👉 Explore our full menu here or contact us here to plan your next family dessert outing.

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