Chick-fil-A Banana Pudding Milkshake: The Sweet Return of a Fan Favorite
After a 13-year hiatus that left fans creating petitions for its return, Chick-fil-A’s beloved Banana Pudding Milkshake has made its triumphant comeback to menus nationwide. This nostalgic treat combines the classic Southern dessert flavors with Chick-fil-A’s signature hand-spun milkshake technique, creating a uniquely indulgent experience that has customers lining up to taste (or re-taste) this legendary menu item.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the Chick-fil-A Banana Pudding Milkshake – from its ingredients and nutritional information to customer reviews and how it compares to other shakes on the menu. Whether you’re a longtime fan who’s been waiting over a decade for its return or someone curious about trying it for the first time, read on to discover what makes this limited-time treat so special.
Key Takeaways
- The Banana Pudding Milkshake returned to Chick-fil-A menus on August 26, 2024, after a 13-year absence
- The shake features Chick-fil-A’s Icedream dessert mixed with real bananas and vanilla wafer cookie crumbles
- It’s available for a limited time only, ending November 16, 2024 (or while supplies last)
- The milkshake has received mostly positive reviews from customers and food critics
- Creative customization options exist, including a viral chocolate-banana variation
- At $5.29-$5.89 (prices vary by location), it’s comparable to other premium fast food shakes
Original Release and Disappearance of Banana Pudding Milkshake
The Banana Pudding Milkshake first appeared on Chick-fil-A menus in 2011 as a seasonal limited-time offering. Despite its popularity among customers who tried it, the shake was discontinued after its initial run. According to former employees, it didn’t sell as well as standard flavors or seasonal favorites like the Peppermint shake, leading to its replacement with other options like the Peach Milkshake.
After its disappearance, the shake developed something of a cult following. The sweet, creamy treat became a nostalgic memory for many Chick-fil-A fans who fondly remembered its unique flavor profile and wished for its return.
The Long-Awaited Comeback
For 13 years, dedicated fans requested the return of the Banana Pudding Milkshake through social media, customer feedback channels, and even formal petitions. Two Change.org petitions from 2017 and 2018 garnered hundreds of signatures from customers hoping to convince Chick-fil-A to bring back the beloved shake.
In August 2024, Chick-fil-A finally announced the shake’s return after “countless calls” from customers requesting it. The announcement generated significant excitement on social media, with one fan on X (formerly Twitter) exclaiming, “I could cry!” The shake returned to menus nationwide on August 26, 2024, scheduled to remain available through November 16, 2024, or while supplies last.
What Makes the Banana Pudding Milkshake Special
Ingredients Breakdown
The Banana Pudding Milkshake features a carefully crafted blend of ingredients designed to capture the essence of traditional Southern banana pudding in milkshake form:
- Chick-fil-A Icedream Dessert: The base of the shake is Chick-fil-A’s proprietary “Icedream,” a soft-serve style frozen dairy dessert known for its creamy texture and vanilla flavor
- Real Bananas: Unlike some fast food banana offerings that rely solely on artificial flavoring, Chick-fil-A incorporates real bananas into their milkshake
- Vanilla Wafer Cookie Crumbles: These cookie pieces provide the characteristic crunch and flavor that makes traditional banana pudding so distinctive
- Whipped Cream and Cherry: The shake is topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry (except when ordered for delivery)
Together, these ingredients create a multi-dimensional flavor experience that balances creamy sweetness with subtle banana notes and textural contrast from the cookie pieces.
The Hand-Spun Difference
Chick-fil-A prides itself on creating its milkshakes “the old-fashioned way,” meaning each one is hand-spun to order rather than pre-mixed or machine-blended. This technique creates a thicker, creamier texture that more closely resembles a traditional milkshake and allows the ingredients to be properly incorporated without being over-mixed.
The hand-spinning process also ensures that the vanilla wafer cookie crumbles maintain their integrity, providing bursts of texture throughout the shake rather than being completely pulverized.
Calorie and Sugar Content
Like most indulgent dessert beverages, the Banana Pudding Milkshake is best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a balanced diet. According to nutritional information, a standard serving contains:
- Calories: 650-700 calories, depending on exact serving size
- Sugar: Approximately 97 grams
- Fat: Around 22 grams
- Protein: 10-13 grams
The shake’s high sugar content in particular has been noted by health-conscious reviewers. At nearly 100 grams of sugar per serving, it contains well above the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit of 25-36 grams of added sugar.
How It Compares to Other Chick-fil-A Treats
The Banana Pudding Milkshake falls within a similar nutritional range as other Chick-fil-A milkshake flavors:
| Milkshake Flavor | Calories | Sugar (g) | Fat (g) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banana Pudding | 650-700 | 97 | 22 | $5.29-$5.89 |
| Vanilla | 580 | 85 | 22 | $5.29-$5.75 |
| Chocolate | 590 | 86 | 22 | $5.29-$5.75 |
| Strawberry | 590 | 85 | 22 | $5.29-$5.75 |
| Cookies & Cream | 630 | 83 | 26 | $5.29-$5.75 |
| Peach (Seasonal) | 630 | 89 | 22 | $5.45-$5.89 |
Note: Prices may vary by location
For those keeping an eye on their nutritional intake, it’s worth noting that the Banana Pudding Milkshake contains milk as an allergen, and while many of the ingredients are gluten-free, cross-contamination may occur during preparation.
What Critics and Food Bloggers Are Saying
Food critics and professional reviewers have given the Banana Pudding Milkshake mostly positive assessments. Sara Kay from Tasting Table noted that the shake reminds her of Magnolia Bakery’s famous banana pudding in milkshake form, giving it an approving comparison to one of the most renowned banana pudding desserts in the country.
The Deseret News gave the shake a positive review, noting that the vanilla wafer cookie crumbles added “a nice texture and flavor to the smooth, ultra-sweet shake.” They ranked it on par with Chick-fil-A’s strawberry and peach shakes, though still placing it below the seasonal Peppermint Shake in their personal ranking.
Some food critics have noted the shake’s intense sweetness, with Guilty Eats comparing its flavor to “a Banana Laffy Taffy drink mixed with Vanilla Wafers,” finding it a bit too sugary for their preference.
Social Media and Customer Feedback
On social media platforms like TikTok, the shake has garnered significant attention, with many food reviewers sharing their first impressions.
TikTok food reviewer Jam Lee Chan gave the shake an 8.7 out of 10, describing it as having “a good banana Jello flavor” that wasn’t overpowering. Another TikTok review duo, Meg and Maddie, enthusiastically claimed that “the banana flavor literally explodes in your mouth” and that it exceeded their expectations.
Customer reactions have been generally positive, though mixed responses exist. Some customers have found the banana flavor to be perfectly balanced, while others have described it as artificial-tasting. This polarization may reflect different expectations or sensitivity to banana flavoring.
Availability and Timing
The Banana Pudding Milkshake is available at participating Chick-fil-A locations nationwide from August 26 through November 16, 2024, while supplies last. After November 16, the shake will be removed from regular menus, though it will still be available at specialty Chick-fil-A locations including:
- The Dwarf House restaurant
- Select Truett’s Grill restaurants
- Truett’s Chick-fil-A restaurants
- Other Dwarf House locations in Georgia
Given its limited-time nature and the high demand from eager fans, some locations may sell out of ingredients needed for the shake before the end date, so earlier sampling is recommended for those eager to try it.
Ordering Options
Customers can order the Banana Pudding Milkshake through several channels:
- In-store: Visit any participating Chick-fil-A restaurant and order at the counter
- Drive-thru: Available at Chick-fil-A locations with drive-thru service
- Chick-fil-A App: Order ahead for pickup or delivery through the official app
- Third-party delivery: Services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub offer delivery from many Chick-fil-A locations
When ordering through delivery services, note that the shake will not include the whipped cream and cherry topping to maintain quality during transit.
The Viral Chocolate Banana Upgrade
A viral modification making the rounds on social media involves asking for Hershey’s chocolate syrup to be added to the Banana Pudding Milkshake. This creates a chocolate-banana flavor combination that many customers have found delicious. Food influencer @snackolator popularized this hack on Instagram, noting that it transforms the shake into a chocolate banana pudding experience.
Unfortunately, this customization can’t be made through the mobile app or online ordering – it must be requested in person at the restaurant.
Other Customer Customizations
Creative customers have discovered additional ways to modify the Banana Pudding Milkshake:
- Strawberry Addition: Some Chick-fil-A employees have suggested adding strawberry syrup to create a strawberry-banana variation with vanilla wafer crumbles
- Peanut Butter Mix-in: Though not officially offered, some customers have reported success requesting a small amount of peanut butter to be blended in, creating a flavor reminiscent of a banana-peanut butter sandwich
- Extra Cookie Crumbles: Many reviewers mention that requesting extra vanilla wafer crumbles enhances the textural experience
Keep in mind that customization options may vary by location, and some modifications may incur additional charges.
Year-Round Flavors
Chick-fil-A offers four standard milkshake flavors available year-round:
- Vanilla: The classic option featuring Icedream with vanilla flavoring
- Chocolate: Icedream blended with rich chocolate syrup
- Strawberry: Incorporates real strawberries for a fruity profile
- Cookies & Cream: Contains Oreo cookie pieces throughout
Compared to these standard options, the Banana Pudding Milkshake offers a more complex flavor profile and unique textural experience thanks to the vanilla wafer cookie crumbles.
Seasonal Competitors
The Banana Pudding Milkshake is part of Chick-fil-A’s rotating seasonal milkshake lineup, which includes:
- Peach Milkshake (Summer): Features real peach puree and peach pieces
- Peppermint Chip Milkshake (Winter Holiday): Contains peppermint flavor and chocolate chips
- Autumn Spice Milkshake (Fall): Cinnamon and brown sugar flavors with crunchy cookie pieces
Among these seasonal options, the Banana Pudding Milkshake stands out for its distinctive Southern dessert inspiration and the textural contrast provided by the vanilla wafer pieces.
The Banana Frosted Coffee Alternative
![Banana Frosted Coffee image – A photograph of the alternative banana beverage in a clear cup, showing its slightly different color and texture compared to the milkshake]
What’s Different About It
Alongside the return of the Banana Pudding Milkshake, Chick-fil-A introduced a new banana-themed beverage: the Banana Frosted Coffee. This drink combines cold-brewed coffee with the same Icedream base, banana flavoring, and vanilla wafer cookie crumbles found in the milkshake.
Key differences between the two beverages include:
- The addition of coffee flavor in the Frosted Coffee version
- Lower calorie count (approx. 230-270 calories vs. 650-700)
- No whipped cream or cherry topping on the Frosted Coffee
- A slightly thinner consistency better suited for drinking through a straw
For Coffee Lovers
The Banana Frosted Coffee appeals to those who enjoy coffee flavor but still want the sweet, banana pudding experience. It offers a less indulgent option with fewer calories and sugar while maintaining the signature banana and vanilla wafer flavors.
This alternative might be particularly appealing to customers who:
- Prefer coffee-flavored treats
- Are looking for a lower-calorie option
- Want something less dessert-like but still sweet
- Need a caffeine boost along with their treat
Will It Return Again?
Given the 13-year gap between the Banana Pudding Milkshake’s original release and its 2024 return, many fans are wondering whether they’ll need to wait another decade to enjoy it again. While Chick-fil-A hasn’t made any official statements about future re-releases, the overwhelming positive response and media attention may encourage the company to bring it back more regularly.
Chick-fil-A typically rotates its seasonal offerings based on customer demand and operational considerations. Popular limited-time items like the Peach Milkshake have become annual traditions, appearing each summer. The strong reception to the Banana Pudding Milkshake’s return could potentially earn it a spot in this regular seasonal rotation.
Getting It While You Can
For fans of the Banana Pudding Milkshake, the limited availability window makes trying it a time-sensitive priority. With availability only through mid-November 2024, those interested in experiencing this fan-favorite should plan to visit Chick-fil-A before the promotion ends.
If the pattern of Chick-fil-A’s other limited-time offerings is any indication, the Banana Pudding Milkshake may disappear from menus again after November 16, possibly for an extended period.
Conclusion
The return of Chick-fil-A’s Banana Pudding Milkshake after 13 years represents a triumph of customer loyalty and persistence. This sweet treat combines the nostalgic flavors of traditional Southern banana pudding with Chick-fil-A’s commitment to quality and hand-crafted preparation.
While the high sugar and calorie content make it an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday beverage, the unique combination of creamy Icedream, real bananas, and vanilla wafer cookie pieces creates a distinctive dessert experience that has resonated with fans for over a decade.
Whether you’re trying it for the first time or reuniting with a long-lost favorite, the limited-time nature of this offering makes the Banana Pudding Milkshake a seasonal treat worth seeking out before it potentially disappears for another extended hiatus.
FAQ About Chick-fil-A’s Banana Pudding Milkshake
How long will the Banana Pudding Milkshake be available?
The Banana Pudding Milkshake is available from August 26 through November 16, 2024, or while supplies last at participating Chick-fil-A locations nationwide.
How much does the Banana Pudding Milkshake cost?
Prices range from $5.29 to $5.89 depending on location, comparable to other premium milkshakes on Chick-fil-A’s menu.
What are the main ingredients in the Banana Pudding Milkshake?
The shake features Chick-fil-A’s Icedream dessert mixed with real bananas and vanilla wafer cookie crumbles, topped with whipped cream and a cherry.
Is the Banana Pudding Milkshake gluten-free?
While many ingredients in the shake may be individually gluten-free, the vanilla wafer cookie crumbles contain gluten, making the overall shake unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
How many calories are in a Banana Pudding Milkshake?
The milkshake contains approximately 650-700 calories and about 97 grams of sugar, making it a high-calorie treat.
Can I customize my Banana Pudding Milkshake?
Yes, many locations will accommodate requests like adding chocolate syrup or extra vanilla wafer crumbles, though options vary by location and must typically be requested in person rather than through the app.
Is there a dairy-free version available?
No, Chick-fil-A does not currently offer a dairy-free version of the Banana Pudding Milkshake, as the Icedream base contains dairy.
Why was the Banana Pudding Milkshake discontinued originally?
According to former employees, it didn’t sell as well as other shake flavors during its original run in 2011, leading to its replacement with other seasonal options.
Where can I find the Banana Pudding Milkshake after November 16?
After the limited-time offering ends, the shake will only be available at specialty Chick-fil-A locations including The Dwarf House restaurant and select Truett’s Grill and Truett’s Chick-fil-A restaurants in Georgia.
