This creamy Vanilla Protein Shake Recipe is made with frozen banana, protein powder, nut butter, milk, and vanilla extract. It’s just a little sweet, creamy, and the perfect it’s a quick and easy breakfast, post-workout snack, or afternoon treat!

vanilla protein shakes in glasses with straws

My Favorite Vanilla Protein Shake

If you’re trying to get more protein in your diet this year than you’re definitely not alone. I know that many of us are working on making our meals more protein rich a while it can be fairly easy at lunch and dinner, I find that breakfast a sometimes be a bit more of challenge.

Thankfully the magic of protein shakes exist and they can be an easy way to pack in a little more protein during that first meal of the day. This creamy Vanilla Protein Shake has just the right amount sweetness, can easily be customized, and comes together quickly for great on the go breakfast option.

Recipe Ingredients

Frozen banana: be sure to use a ripe, frozen banana. This makes sure the protein shake is smooth and creamy – just like we want it!

Protein powder: there are so many options when it comes to protein powder, which means you can choose your favorite! For this recipe a vanilla protein works perfectly. You could also go with a plain protein powder if you like!

Nut butter: a tablespoon or so of nut butter like almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter adds a nutty flavor and good fats and helps create a smooth, creamy consistency.

Vanilla almond milk: like the protein powder, I prefer to use vanilla almond milk for a bolder vanilla flavor, but you can use any dairy or non-dairy milk you like best.

Vanilla extract: this adds a delicious vanilla flavor that makes the smoothie even more delicious!

Protein Shake Variations

Add in some veggies – this vanilla protein shake pairs well with the addition of mild veggies such as cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach. So, feel free to add in a handful for a boost of fiber and nutrients if you like!
Make it vegan – be sure to use dairy-free milk and a vegan protein powder to keep this recipe vegan.
Include more fruit – you can add in your favorite fruit to this protein shake if you want! Frozen berries would be delicious. Just note that the taste of the shake will take on the flavor of whatever you use.
Make it sweeter – you can make this shake even sweeter by adding a touch of maple syrup, honey, or even a pitted date.

Ways to Customize

I love to add various mix-ins to make this vanilla protein powder shake even heartier, especially when making it for breakfast or after a hard workout. Here are a few of my favorites:

Collagen Powder – Collagen powder is a great way to add an extra hit of protein to keep you full. This is also a great option to use instead of protein powder if preferred.
Ground Flax Seeds – these flaxseeds are full of health benefits, and you can’t even taste them! Flax seeds are a great source of fiber, plant-based protein, and healthy fats!
Chia Seeds – I recommend adding anywhere between a half to one teaspoon or so of chia seeds. Any more than that, and they might change the texture of the shake too much. Be sure to drink it right away, or your shake will turn into chia pudding!
Hemp Seeds – I love to add hemp seeds for all the health benefits. I usually add 1/2 a tablespoon. Any more than that, and your strawberry protein shake might become a little gritty.
Oats – I love adding 1/4 cup of old-fashioned oats to my shakes for even more fiber and whole grains. You can’t even taste them!

Helpful Kitchen Tools

How to Make This Vanilla Protein Powder Shake

Step One: Add all the ingredients to a high-powered blender.

Step Two: Blend until smooth and creamy, and serve right away!

Tips for a Creamy Protein Shake

Add the liquid first – add your liquid to the base of the blender first. This helps make the shake easier to blend.
Start slow – for the best results, start the blender speed on low, and gradually turn it up before bringing it to full speed. This ensures all the ingredients blend completely.
Use frozen produce – to get a really thick and creamy texture, be sure to use a frozen banana. A fresh banana will create a runnier consistency.

protein shakes topped with nut butter on wooden cutting board

More Delicious Shakes and Smoothies

I hope you give this Vanilla Protein Shake Recipe a try! It’s perfectly sweet, creamy, easy to make, and delicious! If you do give this recipe a try, let me know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @allthehealthythings on INSTAGRAM. Your reviews and ratings help support All the Healthy Things and make it possible for me to continue to create the recipes you trust and love.