It was a sun-soaked afternoon in Wisconsin when I first discovered the magic of the Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream. Imagine savoring a decadent cocktail that’s more dessert than drink, combining creamy vanilla ice cream with the delightful notes of almond and cocoa. This indulgent frozen treat is not just a cocktail—it’s a refreshing escape, perfect for warm days or festive celebrations. Whipping up this luscious Pink Squirrel takes mere minutes, making it an easy choice for anyone looking to impress guests or indulge after a long day. And let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good dessert drink? Curious how to recreate this classic Wisconsin favorite? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Pink Squirrel so irresistible?

Indulgent flavor: This cocktail perfectly fuses the sweetness of vanilla ice cream with the nutty notes of crème de noyaux and white crème de cacao, creating a delectable dessert experience.
Creamy texture: Each sip delivers a luscious, velvety mouthfeel that’s hard to resist, making it feel like an ice cream shake in a glass.
Quick preparation: With just a few ingredients and a blender, this treat can be ready in minutes—ideal for spontaneous gatherings or cozy nights in.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether at a summer party or a winter celebration, this visually stunning drink garnished with whipped cream appeals to all ages, tempting even those who shy away from cocktails.
Looking for more festive delights? Try serving this alongside a refreshing Cucumber Salad Bacon or indulge in the tropical flavors of Mango Sticky Rice.

Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream Ingredients

• Here’s what you’ll need to create this luscious cocktail!

For the Frozen Treat

1 cup vanilla ice cream – This is the heart of your drink, providing sweetness and a creamy base. Note: Use about 2 generous scoops for the best texture.
1½ ounces crème de noyaux – An almond-flavored liqueur that gives the Pink Squirrel its signature nutty flavor. Substitute: Amaretto for a similar taste, but don’t forget the red food coloring to achieve that bright pink hue!
1½ ounces white crème de cacao – This sweet chocolate liqueur adds a rich depth to the cocktail. Substitute: Regular crème de cacao if white is unavailable; it may alter the hue but still deliver delightful taste.
2 ounces heavy cream – Enhances the overall creaminess and adds a luxurious texture. Adjust the quantity to get your preferred thickness!

For the Garnish

Whipped cream – A dollop on top adds extra indulgence and visual appeal.
Freshly grated nutmeg – This sprinkle will elevate the flavors and give it a festive touch!
Maraschino cherry – Classic garnish that adds a pop of color and sweetness.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s blend up this delicious Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream and toast to great flavors and wonderful moments!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream

Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
In a blender, combine 2 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream, 1½ ounces of crème de noyaux, 1½ ounces of white crème de cacao, and 2 ounces of heavy cream. Blend these ingredients on high for about 30 to 45 seconds until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture. You want it to be thick yet pourable, ensuring all flavors are perfectly integrated.

Step 2: Adjust the Consistency
After blending, check the consistency of your Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream. If the mixture is too thick, add an extra splash of heavy cream, blending for another 10 seconds. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful, velvety texture that makes this frozen cocktail so indulgent and enjoyable.

Step 3: Prepare the Glass
Once the blend is smooth, select a chilled serving glass to enhance the experience. Pour the luscious cocktail mixture into the glass, filling it about three-quarters full. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful texture and the pink hue before moving on to the garnish, as the visual appeal is part of what makes the Pink Squirrel so special.

Step 4: Garnish the Cocktail
To elevate your Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream, top it with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Follow this by lightly sprinkling freshly grated nutmeg over the top for a touch of warmth and spice. Finally, place a maraschino cherry on top for a classic, colorful finish that invites you to dive right in.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
Your Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream is now ready to serve! Present it to your guests or yourself right away to enjoy the best texture and flavors. The combination of creamy vanilla with the nutty and chocolate liqueurs makes each sip a delicious moment of indulgence, perfect for any occasion.

How to Store and Freeze Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream

Fridge: Keep any leftover Pink Squirrel in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, note that the creamy texture may change, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Freezer: If you’re making a larger batch, freeze the mixture in a sealed container. It can last for about 1 month. When ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw slightly before blending again to restore its smooth texture.

Reheating: This cocktail is best served cold, so there’s no reheating needed. Just blend again if it’s frozen and ready to sip!

Preparation Tips: For quick assembly when guests arrive, pre-measure all ingredients in advance, ensuring you have everything ready to whip up this delightful Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream.

Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream Variations

Customize your Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream to enhance flavors and cater to your preferences for a truly delightful experience!

Nutty Variation: Substitute crème de noyaux with hazelnut liqueur for a richer, nuttier flavor that adds depth to your cocktail.
Chocolaty Twist: Use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla to create a double chocolate delight. Imagine the creamy richness it brings!
Fruity Flare: Blend in a splash of cherry or raspberry puree for a fruity note that balances the creaminess beautifully.
Dairy-Free: Swap vanilla ice cream for coconut or almond milk ice cream for a tasty, vegan-friendly alternative.
Extra-Layered Flavor: Add a splash of flavored syrup, like almond or chocolate, to intensify the taste profile! A little goes a long way in this indulgent treat.
Heat It Up: Incorporate a touch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a surprising, warm twist that adds a kick to your cocktail.
Festive Cheer: Top the cocktail with peppermint whipped cream around the holidays for a seasonal spin that delights the senses.
Alcohol-Free Option: Prepare a mocktail version by using whipped cream soda and extra vanilla ice cream, allowing everyone to join the fun.

Feeling adventurous? Pair your Pink Squirrel with a tasty appetizer like Pepper Steak Bell or conclude your meal with a refreshing glass of Iced Cherry Earl! Enjoy your delectable creations!

Expert Tips for Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream

Chill Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are well chilled before blending. This step helps achieve that velvety texture everyone loves in a Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream.
Adjust Creaminess: Feel free to tweak the amount of heavy cream based on your preferred thickness. Adding too much can make it too runny, so add gradually!
Use Quality Liqueurs: Opt for high-quality crème de noyaux and white crème de cacao. This will significantly enhance the flavor profile of your indulgent cocktail.
Experiment with Variations: Try substituting crème de noyaux with flavored liqueurs like hazelnut or chocolate for a unique twist that surprises your taste buds.
Garnish with Care: Don’t skip the garnish! A dollop of whipped cream, nutmeg, and a maraschino cherry creates visual appeal and elevates flavor.

What to Serve with Indulgent Pink Squirrel Ice Cream Cocktail

Imagine basking in the sun, cocktail in hand, and savoring complementary flavors that enhance your indulgent drinking experience.

Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses balances the cocktail’s sweetness perfectly, providing a rich and textural contrast.
Mini Chocolate Tarts: These bite-sized desserts echo the rich chocolate notes in the Pink Squirrel while delivering a delightful crunch.
Crispy Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: The salty, savory goodness of prosciutto complements the sweet cocktail beautifully, creating a balanced bite.
Fruity Summer Salad: Toss greens with berries and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast that cuts through the creaminess.

The bright and vibrant flavors in a summer salad keep your palate excited while the cocktail acts as a delightful finish. Perfect for a sunny brunch or garden party!

Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing palate cleanser adds brightness and contrasts nicely with the rich textures of the cocktail.
Sparkling Wine or Champagne: This effervescent drink elevates the overall experience and creates an elegant pairing perfect for celebrations.

With these suggestions, let your Pink Squirrel shine as the ultimate dessert drink at your next gathering!

Make Ahead Options

These Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream cocktails are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can pre-measure all your ingredients—1 cup of vanilla ice cream, 1½ ounces each of crème de noyaux and white crème de cacao, and 2 ounces of heavy cream—up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in separate containers. Keeping them chilled maintains their quality, ensuring the flavors stay fresh. When it’s time to serve, simply blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Your guests will still enjoy that indulgent taste, making it a stress-free and delightful addition to any gathering without sacrificing flavor!

Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my Pink Squirrel with Ice Cream?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select high-quality crème de noyaux and white crème de cacao. Look for crème de noyaux with a rich almond aroma and crème de cacao that’s smooth and sweet. If you prefer a brighter pink hue, don’t forget to grab some red food coloring if you’re substituting with amaretto!

How should I store leftovers of the Pink Squirrel?
If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the creamy consistency might change slightly over time, so for the best experience, it’s perfect to enjoy fresh!

Can I freeze the Pink Squirrel cocktail?
Yes! If you’d like to make a larger batch, freeze the mixture in a sealed container. It will last for about 1 month in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge, allow it to thaw slightly in the fridge for about 30 minutes, then blend it again for that smooth, creamy texture.

What should I do if my cocktail is too thick or too runny?
If your mixture is too thick, add a splash of heavy cream and blend again, which should bring it to the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, you can add a bit more ice cream to thicken it up. Blend briefly until everything is just right—you’ll achieve that luscious mouthfeel that makes the Pink Squirrel so delightful!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind with this cocktail?
Indeed, if you are serving guests with allergies, notify them that this cocktail contains dairy and alcohol. For those looking for a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the liqueurs with flavored syrups and a splash of almond extract, while keeping the vanilla ice cream base. It’s always great to offer variations that everyone can enjoy!