If you love a sweet treat that’s truly unforgettable, you’ve likely heard of Shake Shack’s concrete. This frozen dessert is not just another run-of-the-mill treat; it’s a delightful whirlwind of flavors and textures that can make even the most mundane day a bit more special.
Pair it with a crispy ShackBurger or a side of crinkle-cut fries, and you’ve got a meal that even your taste buds will rave about for days.
Now, let’s dive deep into the world of Shake Shack Concrete.
What is Shake Shack Concrete?
Shake Shack Concrete is essentially a custard that’s blended with your favorite mix-ins and served up like a small sundae or a soft-serve. It’s thick, creamy, and frankly, a little like ice cream on steroids.
The fun doesn’t stop there; you can personalize it with a mix of toppings. Think about it: your creamy base, topped with cookie dough, crunchy toppings, or even candy. It’s not just a dessert. It’s an experience.
What Does It Taste Like?
One word: indulgent. The first bite offers a rich blend of sweetness, followed by the cooling sensation of the custard. Each mix-in adds a different nuance, whether it be chewy, crunchy, or downright gooey.
The combination creates a sensory explosion. Imagine biting into soft chocolate chip cookie pieces while the vanilla custard coats your palate. It’s blissful, really.
Why This Recipe Works
1. Amazing Flavor Combinations
The beauty of the Concrete is that you can customize it to your heart’s desire. Using quality ingredients and different mix-ins means you create something unique every single time.
2. Texture Harmony
The blend of smooth custard with chewy or crunchy pieces creates a satisfying contrast. Each spoonful is an adventure. You’ll appreciate the balance of textures with every bite.
3. Versatility
Shake Shack Concrete can be altered for any dietary preference. You can swap out the base for a dairy-free version. The options are almost endless.
4. Easy to Make
Most of the ingredients you’ll likely have in your pantry. There’s no need for a culinary degree or fancy gadgets. If you can stir, you can make this dessert.
Ingredients for Shake Shack Concrete
To whip up this delicious treat, gather the following:
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- 7 oz dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 6 pieces of dark chocolate truffles
- ½ package (16 ½ oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough, diced into 1-inch chunks
Fudge Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup or golden syrup
- 1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
- 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped finely
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp dark rum
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup chocolate sprinkles for garnish
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fudge Sauce
Start by combining the heavy cream and butter in a saucepan. Heat gently over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
Step 2: Mix in the Sugars
Add the light corn syrup and light brown sugar to the hot cream mixture. Stir until fully dissolved. This creates a rich, sweet base for your sauce.
Step 3: Incorporate Chocolate
Remove from heat and add the chopped bittersweet chocolate. Whisk until smooth. Add cocoa powder and stir in the dark rum and vanilla extract.
Step 4: Chill the Sauce
Let the fudge sauce cool to room temperature. It should thicken as it cools. You can store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Prepare the Custard Base
While the sauce cools, take your chilled vanilla custard or store-bought soft serve. You can also use a homemade base if you’re feeling ambitious.
Step 6: Combine Mix-Ins
Fold in espresso powder, dark chocolate, cookie dough chunks, and chocolate truffles into the custard base. Pearls of chocolate and rich cookie dough will mix beautifully with the creamy texture.
Step 7: Serve It Up
Spoon the mixture into cups or bowls. Drizzle generous helpings of chilled fudge sauce over the top and finish it with chocolate sprinkles.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your chocolate matters. Choose high-quality chocolate for rich flavor.
- Be Creative with Mix-Ins: Feel free to experiment. Think crushed Oreos, gummy bears, or rainbow sprinkles.
- Chill Your Tools: If you have time, chill your mixing bowl and utensils. This keeps the custard cold.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, add more or less brown sugar or adjust mix-ins accordingly.
- Presentation Counts: Serve in clear cups to showcase those delightful layers and textures.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
shake shack concrete recipe nutrition facts
How to Store the Leftovers?
Leftover Shake Shack Concrete can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best consumed within a week. Let it soften at room temperature for a few minutes before digging in again.
Sides for Shake Shack Concrete
1. ShackBurger
A classic Cheeseburger pairs perfectly with the rich dessert. The savory juices contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the Concrete.
2. Crinkle-Cut Fries
These crispy bites soak up extra fudge sauce perfectly. The crunch complements the smooth custard and balances the meal.
3. Onion Rings
For a crispy side, onion rings with their zesty flavor can pique your appetite. The crunchiness offers a refreshing change as you dive into your Concrete.
4. Fresh Fruit Salad
For something lighter, a fruit salad adds color and is refreshing. Seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites of the sweet treat.
Alternative Choices to the Ingredients
1. Chocolate Variants
If you don’t have dark chocolate handy, you can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
2. Cookie Dough Substitution
If you’re not keen on cookie dough, consider crushed brownies or chocolate cake. They’ll add richness without losing that delightful texture.
3. Dairy-Free Options
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate.
4. Sweeteners
Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or agave if you prefer a natural sweetener. Keep in mind it might alter the consistency slightly.
Shake Shack Concrete Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon espresso powder
- 7 oz dark chocolate coarsely chopped
- 6 pieces of dark chocolate truffles
- ½ package 16 ½ oz of refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough, such as Toll House, diced into 1-inch chunks
- Fudge Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup or golden syrup
- 1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
- 1/8 tsp fine sea salt
- 8 oz bittersweet chocolate chopped finely
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp dark rum
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup chocolate sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Start by combining the heavy cream and butter in a saucepan. Heat gently over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
- Add the light corn syrup and light brown sugar to the hot cream mixture. Stir until fully dissolved. This creates a rich, sweet base for your sauce.
- Remove from heat and add the chopped bittersweet chocolate. Whisk until smooth. Add cocoa powder and stir in the dark rum and vanilla extract.
- Let the fudge sauce cool to room temperature. It should thicken as it cools. You can store it in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
- While the sauce cools, take your chilled vanilla custard or store-bought soft serve. You can also use a homemade base if you’re feeling ambitious.
- Fold in espresso powder, dark chocolate, cookie dough chunks, and chocolate truffles into the custard base. Pearls of chocolate and rich cookie dough will mix beautifully with the creamy texture.
- Spoon the mixture into cups or bowls. Drizzle generous helpings of chilled fudge sauce over the top and finish it with chocolate sprinkles.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your chocolate matters. Choose high-quality chocolate for rich flavor.
- Be Creative with Mix-Ins: Feel free to experiment. Think crushed Oreos, gummy bears, or rainbow sprinkles.
- Chill Your Tools: If you have time, chill your mixing bowl and utensils. This keeps the custard cold.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste, add more or less brown sugar or adjust mix-ins accordingly.
- Presentation Counts: Serve in clear cups to showcase those delightful layers and textures.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Shake Shack Concrete isn’t just another dessert; it’s an experience that awakens your taste buds. Crafting this delicious treat at home allows for endless creativity. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or hosting friends, this dessert will shine.
So gather your ingredients, channel your inner dessert chef, and ring the bells of indulgence. You won’t regret diving into a cup of this delightful concoction. Happy indulging!
