Orange Creamsicle Shake Recipe — Homemade Orange Julius Copycat

This Orange Creamsicle Shake is creamy, smooth, and a perfect Orange Julius copycat. Made with frozen orange juice concentrate, vanilla ice cream, milk (or cream), and a touch of vanilla extract, it’s an easy and nostalgic orange cream shake you can make in minutes.

If you’re craving a creamy orange shake that tastes like the mall classic, this Orange Creamsicle Shake is it. It combines the bright citrus of frozen orange juice concentrate with rich vanilla ice cream and milk for a smooth, frosty treat that’s simple to make and fun to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Creamsicle Shake

• Bold, refreshing orange flavor balanced by creamy vanilla
• Made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients
• Ready in about five minutes
• Family-friendly — kids love it, adults enjoy it too
• Great for summer parties, dessert, or a nostalgic snack

Ingredients Needed For An Orange Milkshake

• Vanilla ice cream
• Frozen orange juice concentrate (thawed slightly if needed)
• Vanilla extract
• Milk or heavy cream

How To Make An Orange Julius Copycat

Step 1: Add ingredients to blender

Scoop the vanilla ice cream into a blender. Add the frozen orange juice concentrate, milk (or heavy cream), and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Blend

Blend on medium-high until the mixture is completely smooth and there are no lumps. If the shake is too thick, add a splash more milk and blend briefly. Pour into chilled glasses and top with whipped cream and an orange slice if desired. Serve immediately.

Variations

1. Tropical Twist:
   • Replace some or all of the orange with pineapple juice or a pineapple-orange blend.
   • Add a ripe banana for extra creaminess and natural sweetness.
2. Citrus Medley:
   • Mix orange with a splash of grapefruit, lemon, or lime for a tangy, layered citrus flavor.
3. Creamsicle Float:
   • Scoops of ice cream topped with the mixed juices instead of blending for a classic float.
4. Healthy Spin:
   • Use Greek yogurt in place of ice cream for a protein-rich option.
   • Add a handful of spinach for extra nutrients—flavor remains mostly orange.
5. Spiced Orange Smoothie:
   • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg and a little orange zest for warmth and aroma.

Tips & Tricks

1. Use the frozen concentrate: Frozen orange juice concentrate gives the best creamsicle texture and concentrated orange flavor.
2. Adjust sweetness: Taste before serving. Add honey, maple syrup, or a little sugar if you prefer a sweeter shake.
3. Thicker shakes: For an extra-thick shake, freeze some of the orange juice into ice cubes before blending or reduce the milk.
4. Dairy alternatives: Almond, oat, or coconut milk work well—use full-fat coconut milk for a creamier, tropical version.
5. Serve cold: Chill glasses and keep ingredients cold for the best frosty presentation.
6. Adult option: Add a splash of vodka or rum for a boozy creamsicle cocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to use frozen orange juice?

Frozen orange juice concentrate delivers the signature bright, concentrated flavor and helps create a thick, frosty texture. You can experiment with fresh juice, but the texture and intensity will differ.

Can I use flavored ice cream?

Yes. Vanilla works best for a classic creamsicle, but orange sherbet or fruit-flavored ice cream will change the profile and can be delicious if you want a stronger or different fruit flavor.

How can I make the orange creamsicle milkshake sweeter?

If you want it sweeter, add 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup, or up to a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar. Taste as you go to avoid over-sweetening.

Can I use coconut milk?

Yes. Full-fat coconut milk gives a creamier, slightly tropical result. Lighter coconut milk will be less rich but still tasty.

More Delicious Desserts

• No Churn Pineapple Coconut Ice Cream
• S’mores Brownies
• Banana Pudding Walking Tacos
• Air Fryer Peaches
• Lemon Almond Cake

Orange Creamsicle Shake (Orange Julius Copycat)

This Orange Creamsicle Shake is creamy, smooth, and a perfect Orange Julius copycat. Made with orange juice concentrate, vanilla ice cream, milk, and vanilla extract.

Servings: 2

Prep Time: 5 mins

Total Time: 5 mins

Ingredients

• 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
• 1 can frozen orange juice concentrate
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream

Instructions

1. Place the vanilla ice cream in a blender. Add the orange juice concentrate, milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend until completely smooth with no lumps. If needed, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency. Pour into glasses, top with whipped cream and an orange slice if you like, and enjoy.

Equipment

• Blender