McDonald’s is making a new Oreo Shamrock McFlurry

It’s that time of year again: The shamrock shake is due back at McDonald’s in just two weeks! On Feb. 19, shamrock shake fans will once again get to enjoy the seasonal indulgence of creamy, minty bliss that comes from blending vanilla soft-serve with peppermint syrup and topping it with whipped cream and a cherry.

McDonald’s has offered the beloved St. Patrick’s Day-inspired shake for 50 years, and to celebrate those five decades of deliciousness, the fast-food chain is making the shamrock shake even more epic.

Customers can opt for the new Oreo shamrock McFlurry, which will feature the classic McDonald’s vanilla soft serve, mint flavor and blended pieces of Oreo cookies. The result? A dessert so magical that even a leprechaun couldn’t resist.

McDonald’s tweeted out the news, and the positive response was overwhelming. @analorenagarci8 asked, “Can’t you just keep it on the menu forever please.”

“We’ve been serving the iconic, cult-favorite Shamrock Shake for 50 years and it’s become synonymous with McDonald’s ever since,” said Linda VanGosen, McDonald’s vice president of menu innovation, in a press release. “We’re excited to serve up a new way to experience the one-of-a-kind Shamrock flavor in our new Oreo Shamrock McFlurry. Our chefs worked to get the perfect balance of Oreo cookies and mint for this new delicious dessert. We can’t wait for customers to get a taste this spring.”

The Oreo shamrock McFlurry will be available at participating McDonald’s locations alongside the traditional shamrock shake on Feb. 19.

A lot of people might not realize this, but there’s a sweet history behind this classic sweet treat. Ronald McDonald House Charities, which creates and supports programs that improve the health and well-being of children, including offering families a place to stay while their ill child receives medical treatment, owes a lot to the minty shake.

The shamrock shake was first invented in 1967 by Hal Rosen, a McDonald’s franchise owner and operator in Connecticut who was looking for a way to make St. Patrick’s Day even more special at his location. The shake was an instant hit, and McDonald’s debuted it nationally in 1970.

Then, in 1974, the very first Ronald McDonald House was built with money from the sales of shamrock shakes, according to a McDonald’s news post — which includes pictures of advertisements for the shakes from years past.

You might be surprised to learn that the shamrock shake has never been available at McDonald’s locations in Ireland — until now! Canda and Ireland will both get the mint shake in 2020.

Mark your calendars for Feb. 19! Whether you’re a fan of the classic or are excited to try the new Oreo shamrock McFlurry, remember, it’s only here for a limited time!