Description
Creamy Vanilla Protein Shake
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1–2
Ingredients
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2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or oat milk, dairy milk, or coconut water)
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2 scoops vanilla protein powder (whey, casein, or plant-based)
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1 frozen banana (for creaminess; fresh works with added ice)
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1 cup Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt/silken tofu for dairy-free)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
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1 cup ice cubes (optional, for extra frosty texture)
Optional Flavor Boosters
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Cinnamon, cocoa powder, or espresso
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Peanut butter or almond butter
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Chia seeds, flax seeds, or spinach/kale
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Frozen fruits like mango, pineapple, or cherries
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Almond extract for a cherry-almond twist
Instructions
1. Combine Base Ingredients
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Pour almond milk into blender first.
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Add protein powder, frozen banana, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and sweetener (if using).
2. Blend
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Start on low speed for 10 seconds to break up chunks.
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Increase to high and blend 30–60 seconds until smooth and creamy.
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If too thick, add a splash of milk. If too thin, add more frozen banana, ice, or a tablespoon of oats/chia seeds.
3. Add Ice (Optional)
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For extra frosty texture, add ice after initial blend and blend again until incorporated.
4. Serve
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Pour into your favorite glass or mason jar.
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Garnish with a banana slice, cinnamon, nutmeg, or a drizzle of honey/peanut butter.
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Enjoy immediately for best texture and flavor.
5 Flavorful Variations
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Java Kick-Start: Add ½ cup cooled strong coffee or 1–2 shots espresso.
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Tropical Escape: Swap banana for 1 cup frozen mango + ½ cup pineapple; add a handful of spinach.
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder + 1 tbsp peanut butter.
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Cherry Almond Bliss: Use 1 cup frozen cherries + ½ tsp almond extract.
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Supergreen Vanilla: Add a handful of spinach or kale + 1 tbsp flax seeds.
Notes
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Too thin? Use frozen banana, add more ice or oats.
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Too thick? Add 1–2 tbsp milk at a time.
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Make ahead? Blend and store in fridge up to 24 hours; shake or re-blend before drinking.
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Protein powder tastes off? Mask with banana, vanilla, cocoa, or a splash of coffee.
Nutrition
- Fat: 6–10 g
- Carbohydrates: 22–30 g
- Protein: 28–35 g