Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vanilla Dream Frozen Delight?
It is a refreshing, creamy non-coffee frozen drink that mimics the Vanilla Bean frozen drink from Starbucks.
Does this recipe contain coffee?
No, this is a non-coffee beverage, making it a great alternative for those avoiding caffeine.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield 2 servings.
What is the calorie count for this frozen treat?
There are approximately 650 calories in the total recipe.
How do I prepare the homemade vanilla syrup?
Combine 3 cups sugar and 2 cups water, boil, simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in vanilla bean paste and cool.
How long can the vanilla syrup be stored?
Any remaining vanilla syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
What type of vanilla is recommended for the syrup?
Vanilla bean paste is used to provide a rich, aromatic flavor and classic vanilla specks.
Can I use regular ice cubes?
The recipe calls for crushed ice to help achieve a smooth, creamy consistency more easily in the blender.
How much fat is in this drink?
The recipe contains 5 grams of fat.
What is the carbohydrate content?
This recipe contains 150 grams of carbohydrates.
Is there any protein in this recipe?
Yes, there are 6 grams of protein in the mixture.
What ingredients are needed for the frozen drink portion?
You will need 2 cups of crushed ice, 1 cup of milk, and 1/3 cup of your prepared vanilla syrup.
Is this drink lighter than a milkshake?
Yes, it is described as being lighter than a traditional milkshake while still offering a luscious texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 ingredients in total, including those for the syrup and the garnish.
Should I use a specific type of blender?
A high-powered blender is recommended to ensure the ice is pulse-chopped into a smooth texture.
What is the recommended topping?
A dollop of whipped cream is recommended for an extra touch of decadence.
Do I need to chill the glasses?
Yes, pouring the mixture into chilled 8 oz. glasses helps maintain the frozen consistency.
Can I use vanilla extract instead of paste?
While the recipe calls for paste, you can substitute with extract, though the flavor may be slightly less intense.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, because it contains no coffee and is sweet, it is an excellent choice for children.
What is the preparation time for the syrup?
The syrup requires about 5 minutes of simmering plus cooling time.
Can I add other flavors to the syrup?
While this is a vanilla recipe, you could technically infuse the syrup with other spices during the boiling phase.
What if the blender gets stuck?
Pause the blender and scrape down the sides to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The standard ingredients listed are gluten-free, but always check your specific brand of vanilla paste.
Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, the measurements can easily be halved if you only wish to make a single serving.
How much sugar is in the syrup?
The syrup base uses 3 cups of granulated sugar.
Is there any fiber in this drink?
No, this recipe contains negligible or no fiber.
Can I make the syrup in advance?
Yes, making the syrup ahead of time is recommended so it has time to cool completely.
What is the total water used for the syrup?
The recipe uses 2 cups of water for the vanilla syrup base.
What is the best way to serve this?
Serve it immediately in a cold glass with a straw and optional whipped cream.