Best Fast Food Peppermint Shakes Ranked: The Most Surprising Winner!

 Best Fast Food Peppermint Shakes: Holiday Treats You’ll Love

Peppermint is a flavor synonymous with the holiday season. Whether it’s candy canes adorning Christmas trees or peppermint-flavored treats lining grocery shelves, this festive flavor is everywhere. One of the most anticipated seasonal offerings is the fast-food peppermint shake. To help you choose the best one, I tested five popular shakes and ranked them based on taste, texture, and overall experience. Here are the results!

The History of Peppermint as a Holiday Flavor

Peppermint’s association with the holidays can be traced back to the late 17th century. According to legend, a choirmaster in Cologne, Germany, commissioned the first candy canes to keep children quiet during Christmas Eve mass. The candy’s hook-shaped design was said to resemble a shepherd’s staff or the letter “J” for Jesus. By the 1920s, candy canes became a holiday staple, cementing peppermint’s role as the flavor of Christmas.

Criteria for Ranking Peppermint Shakes

To fairly assess each shake, I used the following criteria:

• Taste: Is the peppermint flavor balanced, or does it overpower the drink?
• Texture: Is the shake creamy and smooth? Does it have the right consistency?
• Innovation: Are there any unique twists or added flavors?
• Availability: How easy is it to find during the holiday season?

Best Fast Food Peppermint Shakes Ranked

1. Five Guys Candy Cane Crunch Shake

Five Guys takes the top spot with its Candy Cane Crunch Shake. This shake features a bold peppermint flavor that is perfectly complemented by a creamy texture. The crushed candy cane topping adds a delightful crunch, making it an ideal treat for peppermint lovers.

Pros:

• Strong peppermint flavor.
• Perfect milkshake consistency.
• Festive red color and candy topping.

Cons:

• Availability may vary by location.

2. Whataburger Peppermint White Chocolate Shake

Whataburger surprises with its Peppermint White Chocolate Shake. This drink offers a subtle peppermint taste blended with a sweet white chocolate base, creating a smooth and satisfying experience.

Pros:

• Unique white chocolate base.
• Balanced peppermint flavor.
• Ideal texture for sipping.

Cons:

• Limited to areas with Whataburger locations.

3. Chick-fil-A Peppermint Chip Milkshake

Chick-fil-A’s Peppermint Chip Milkshake combines a creamy base with subtle peppermint and chocolate chips. While delicious, it lacks the bold peppermint punch of the top two contenders.

Pros:

• Creamy and consistent texture.
• Chocolate chips add a nice crunch.

Cons:

• Peppermint flavor is understated.

4. Starbucks Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino

Although technically not a milkshake, Starbucks’ Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino earns its spot for its festive appeal. However, the peppermint flavor is often overpowered by the mocha base.

Pros:

• Festive holiday presentation.
• Chocolate pieces add texture.

Cons:

• Peppermint flavor is too mild.
• More of a coffee drink than a shake.

5. Dairy Queen Peppermint Hot Chocolate Blizzard

Dairy Queen’s Peppermint Hot Chocolate Blizzard rounds out the list. While technically a Blizzard, its thick texture and dominant chocolate flavor overshadow the peppermint.

Pros:

• Generous peppermint garnish.

Cons:

• Overwhelming chocolate base.
• Too thick to drink easily.

Comparing Nutrition and Ingredients

FAQs About Fast Food Peppermint Shakes

Q: Why are peppermint shakes so popular during the holidays? A: Peppermint’s cool and refreshing flavor evokes nostalgic holiday memories, making it a festive favorite.

Q: Which fast-food chain has the best peppermint shake? A: According to our rankings, Five Guys’ Candy Cane Crunch Shake is the best choice for peppermint lovers.

Q: Are there dairy-free peppermint shakes available? A: Some coffee chains, like Starbucks, offer dairy-free alternatives if you customize your drink.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a die-hard peppermint fan or just looking to indulge in a seasonal treat, these fast-food peppermint shakes offer something for everyone. Five Guys stands out for its bold flavor and festive presentation, while Whataburger’s white chocolate twist is a close second. Try them all and find your favorite before the holiday season ends!

Which shake tops your list? Share your thoughts in the comments below and spread the holiday cheer!