Copycat Wendy’s Raven’s Blood Frosty Recipe

There’s something deliciously eerie about the new Raven’s Blood Frosty from Wendy’s. Maybe it’s the deep cherry streaks twisting through a pale vanilla base, or the way each spoonful feels like a little bite of gothic dessert drama. Inspired by the Wednesday Addams universe and its darkly playful aesthetic, this spooky limited-time Frosty is equal parts creamy, fruity, and theatrical.

Now you can bring that same magic home with our copycat Wendy’s Raven’s Blood Frosty recipe. It’s soft, cold, smooth, and streaked with homemade cherry syrup that looks like it came straight out of a fantasy novel. Whether you’re prepping for Halloween or just in the mood for a dramatic dessert, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s swirl.

How to make the Copycat Wendy’s Raven’s Blood Frosty

This version keeps all the creaminess of the classic vanilla Frosty but folds in a thick, tart cherry ribbon made from real frozen cherries. The swirl gives you pops of bright flavor in every bite and creates the haunting visual effect that made the original so unforgettable.

You’ll blend the vanilla base just long enough to get that signature Frosty texture, then layer and swirl in your cooled cherry syrup before serving. For maximum visual impact, use clear cups or parfait glasses.

Ingredients, Instructions and Tips

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour (for syrup)
Total time: About 1.5 hours
Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 350
Fat: 10g
Sugar: 45g
Protein: 6g

Ingredients

For the vanilla Frosty base:

• 2 cups vanilla ice cream (very soft or slightly melted)
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the cherry swirl:

• 1 cup frozen dark sweet cherries
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 pinch cocoa powder (optional, for darker color)
• 2 teaspoons water

Tools Needed

• Blender
• Small saucepan
• Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
• Fine mesh strainer (optional)
• Tall clear glasses or dessert cups
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for cooling syrup)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Raven’s Blood cherry swirl
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cherries, sugar, water, lemon juice, and cocoa powder. Simmer for 7 to 10 minutes until the cherries are soft and syrupy. Use the back of a spoon to mash them slightly.

Optional: For a smoother swirl, strain through a mesh sieve to remove skins. Let the syrup cool completely, then refrigerate for 1 hour to thicken.

Step 2: Blend the Frosty base
In a blender, add the softened vanilla ice cream, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Blend for 15 to 20 seconds just until smooth and creamy. You want a thick milkshake-like texture.

Step 3: Assemble
Spoon a small layer of Frosty into each glass. Add a teaspoon of cherry swirl and repeat, layering until full. Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl the cherry sauce for that classic “bloody ribbon” look.

Step 4: Serve immediately
Serve with a black or purple spoon for full spooky effect. Optional: top with whipped cream and a single cherry.

Tips

• Chill your glasses before layering to help hold the shape of the swirl longer.
• Don’t overblend or the Frosty will turn into regular milkshake.
• For dramatic visuals, use a spoon to drag cherry syrup along the inside of the cup before filling.

What to serve with

When serving the chilling and creamy delight that is the Copycat Wendy’s Raven’s Blood Frosty, pairing it with moody snacks or light bites can elevate the eerie vibe. The trick is to balance the rich vanilla base and bold cherry streaks with contrasting textures and flavors.

Dark and Fruity Sweets

Black Cocoa Brownies: These deep, nearly black brownies use black cocoa for a rich taste and gothic look. The dark chocolate base complements the sweet cherry swirl of the Frosty.

Blood Orange Jellies: Tart, citrusy, and slightly bitter, these gelled bites contrast nicely with the creamy Frosty while playing into the red-black color palette.

Salty Snacks

Salted Pretzel Bites: Soft, warm pretzels with sea salt offer a chewy, savory contrast that keeps the sweet dessert from becoming too much.

Popcorn with Black Garlic Butter: This unusual combo adds umami depth and a little crunch to your dessert moment, perfect for themed movie nights.

Drinks

Charcoal Lemonade: This pitch-black drink is visually striking and pairs surprisingly well with cherry and vanilla notes. Use food-grade activated charcoal.

Spiced Iced Tea: Brew black tea with cloves and cinnamon, then chill and serve with a lemon slice. The spice balances the Frosty’s sweetness while keeping the fall vibe going strong.

Ingredient Substitutes

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Original Ingredient: Vanilla ice cream

Substitutes:

• Dairy-Free Ice Cream: Try coconut milk or almond milk ice cream for a vegan-friendly base.
• Frozen Yogurt: For a tangy twist and slightly lower fat.
• Low-Fat Ice Cream: Reduces overall calories while maintaining a smooth texture.

2. Whole Milk
   Original Ingredient: Whole milk

Substitutes:

• Almond or Oat Milk: For dairy-free options.
• 2% Milk: Slightly lighter but still creamy.
• Half-and-Half: If you want it extra rich.

3. Frozen Dark Cherries
   Original Ingredient: Frozen dark sweet cherries

Substitutes:

• Fresh Cherries: Pit and cook down with added water.
• Cherry Pie Filling: Can be thinned and used for a quick version.
• Mixed Berries: If you want more tartness or berry complexity.

4. Cocoa Powder
   Original Ingredient: Unsweetened cocoa powder (tiny amount for color depth)

Substitutes:

• Black Cocoa: For deeper color and darker taste.
• Omit: If color is fine without it. Flavor will still work well.

5. Sugar (in swirl)
   Original Ingredient: Granulated sugar

Substitutes:

• Maple Syrup or Honey: Adds complexity, but will change color and flavor slightly.
• Coconut Sugar: Slight caramel undertones.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit: For low-sugar options (adjust quantity accordingly).

6. Lemon Juice
   Original Ingredient: Fresh lemon juice

Substitutes:

• Lime Juice: Brings a similar brightness.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds acidity, though sharper than citrus.
• Skip: If using very sweet cherries and you prefer mild tartness.