Quick Description
A thick, creamy, ice-cream-like protein shake made with protein powder, Greek yogurt, and a few simple ingredients. It’s whipped until fluffy and indulgent but stays light on calories and heavy on protein.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 2 large glasses
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (whey or casein; ~25g protein)
- ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt (for creaminess & protein; ~10g protein)
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim milk; adjust for texture)
- 1 frozen banana (adds sweetness & thickness)
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, enhances flavor)
- 1–2 cups ice cubes (to make it fluffy and cold)
- Sweetener of choice (stevia, monk fruit, or 1 tbsp honey if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare Blender: Add almond milk and Greek yogurt to blender first (this helps blend smoothly).
- Add Frozen Base: Toss in the frozen banana.
- Add Protein & Flavor: Scoop in the protein powder, cinnamon, vanilla, and any sweetener.
- Blend Slowly: Start on low speed to break down ice and banana.
- Add Ice Gradually: Add 1 cup of ice cubes, blend, then check texture. Add more ice if you want a fluffier, thicker consistency.
- Whip Until Fluffy: Blend on high for 1–2 minutes until mixture expands, becomes airy, and resembles soft-serve ice cream.
- Serve Immediately: Pour into chilled glasses, add straws or spoons, and enjoy!
Additional Notes
- If you want extra creaminess, add 2 tbsp cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- For a chocolate version, replace vanilla protein with chocolate protein powder and add 1 tbsp cocoa powder.
- For a low-carb/keto version, replace the banana with ½ avocado + extra ice + sweetener.
Dietary Info
- High-Protein (~20–30g per serving, depending on protein powder)
- Gluten-Free (check protein powder)
- Vegetarian
- Low-Fat (if using nonfat yogurt and almond milk)
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Protein Powder: Whey gives a creamier shake; casein makes it thicker and fluffier.
- Greek Yogurt: Can substitute with skyr or cottage cheese for similar macros.
- Banana: Provides natural sweetness and creaminess—can replace with frozen berries or zucchini for lower sugar.
- Cinnamon & Vanilla: Optional, but add warmth and depth of flavor.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Pumpkin Spice Shake: Add 2 tbsp pumpkin puree + pumpkin spice seasoning.
- Berry Swirl: Blend in ½ cup frozen blueberries or strawberries.
- Mocha Protein Fluff: Add 1 tsp instant coffee + chocolate protein powder.
- Frozen Dessert: Freeze in a container for 1–2 hours and scoop like ice cream.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Best served immediately for fluffiest texture.
- If refrigerated, it will thicken further—stir or re-blend before drinking.
- Can be frozen for up to 1 day, but may need re-whipping.