This creamy Vanilla Protein Shake is so easy to make in 5 minutes. As a post-workout snack or breakfast on the go, it’s a convenient way to eat more protein.
Looking for more recipes with vanilla protein powder? You should also try my protein ice cream, homemade protein bars, and protein pancakes.
If you still buy bottled protein drinks, try this recipe. For years, I was a heavy drinker of Fairlife shakes. It was a must after hitting the gym. But let’s be honest, my habit got quite expensive.
I now make my own vanilla protein shake in a blender. It’s so quick, easy and cheap. Plus, it tastes delicious and fit in my macros – and budget.
Ingredients
This simple shake has just 5 ingredients. Here are more details, and you can find precise quantities in the recipe card at the bottom.
- Vanilla protein powder – You can use whey, casein, vegan protein powder or collagen. Since it’s a vanilla protein shake, I recommend vanilla flavor. But also unflavored is fine. For me, French vanilla whey is the best.
- Frozen banana – It adds creaminess and natural sweetness, so you won’t need any syrup or sugar. Swapping it for 1 cup of ice cubes/frozen milk ice cubes can work, but you may need extra sweeteners.
- Greek yogurt – It’s a natural source of protein and creaminess. You can use fat-free, 2% fat, or full fat Greek yogurt. Cottage cheese and nondairy yogurts are great substitutes.
- Milk of choice – Unsweetened almond milk is low in calories and carbs. Feel free to use your favorite dairy or nondairy milk.
- Vanilla extract – It gives that delicious vanilla flavor. You can use liquid vanilla extract or scrape vanilla beans. I find flavor drops too fake/artificial. If your protein powder is already flavored, feel free to omit.
How to make vanilla protein shake
You will love how quick and easy my recipe is! Here’s a step-by-step guide with pictures. Scroll down for the printable recipe card.
Step 1 – Combine ingredients. Add to a blender frozen banana, Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, milk and vanilla extract.
Step 2 – Blend. Blend on high until smooth and frothy, scraping down sides as needed. It should take around 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 3 – Enjoy. Pour your vanilla protein shake to a glass and serve immediately.
Recipe variations
- Low calorie – Use nonfat Greek yogurt and unsweetened almond milk or cashew milk.
- High calorie – Blend 2 frozen bananas with ⅓ cup (80 g) full-fat Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp peanut butter, 2 pitted dates, 1 scoop of protein powder, ½ tsp vanilla extract and 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk.
- Vegan – Replace Greek yogurt with plant based options (I like soy yogurt for more protein), use nondairy milk, and choose a vegan protein powder.
- No banana – Replace the banana with 1 cup of ice cubes/milk ice cubes, adjusting sweetness if needed. Frozen cauliflower or other frozen fruits like strawberries and blueberries might work. But they may cover the vanilla flavor.
- Chocolate – Blend in 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Peanut butter – Blend in 1 tablespoon of creamy peanut butter or powdered peanut butter (like PB2 or PBFit).
Frequently asked questions
Should I drink protein shake before or after working out?
Both work, whatever fits you. I personally prefer it post-workout because it’s low in fat and high in protein. The natural sugars in banana help replenish the glycogen storages. After training, use whey for faster absorption and better recovery.
Can I drink vanilla protein shake for weight loss?
Yes! it’s low in calories, high in protein, and keeps you full. Perfect as a light breakfast, snack, or post-workout. But remember, for fat loss a calorie deficit is all that matters. There’s no magic food.
Does drinking protein shakes build muscle?
Only if your overall diet supports it. You should be in a calorie surplus and train hard. Drinking protein shakes won’t automatically give you muscle, if not paired with a strength training.
Can I drink protein shakes every day?
Yes, protein shakes are an easy way to hit your goals, especially if you’re busy or not hungry in the morning. Just make sure your diet is balanced. It’s always better to get your protein from food first, and use protein powder as a complement.
Can I store it for later?
Yes, but it won’t be as creamy. To store, keep it in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or blend again before drinking, as it may separate.
Since it’s so quick to make, I recommend blending and serving it fresh.
More high protein snacks
- Low calorie protein bars
- Protein balls
- Greek yogurt protein muffins
- Protein pudding with 57 g protein
- Chocolate protein mousse
- Cottage cheese brownies
Vanilla Protein Shake
Ingredients
- 1 frozen banana
- ¼ cup (60 g) Greek yogurt nonfat or regular
- ⅓ cup (30 g) vanilla protein powder
- ¾ cup (180 ml) unsweetened almond milk or preferred milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Add to a blender frozen banana, Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, milk and vanilla extract.
- Blend on high until smooth and frothy, scraping down sides as needed. It should take around 2 to 3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust sweetness, if necessary.
- Pour your vanilla protein shake to a glass and serve immediately.
Notes
- Tip: Protein shakes lose flavor and creaminess fast. I recommend blending and serving it fresh.
- To store: After blending, keep it in a sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or blend again before drinking, as it may separate.
Nutrition
Per serving, estimated automatically, not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
Matteo
This protein shake tastes like a milkshake!!! Great post-workout snack!
Hey Baeden, delicious right?!
Thanks a lot for your feedback.