Banana Protein Shake (Healthy Recipe)
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This delicious banana protein shake can be enjoyed any time of the day. With 22 grams of protein it is the perfect breakfast to fuel your busy morning. And when topped with some whipped cream and graham crackers, it is a dessert worthy treat.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Rachel’s Nutrition Tip: Starting your day with a protein-rich breakfast can help you feel full for longer and support healthy weight management.
Please check out some of my other favorite smoothies recipes such as this mixed berry smoothie, healthy orange Julius protein shake, or protein oreo shake.
Recipe Ingredients
You’ll need the following ingredients to make this Banana Protein Shake:
- Vanilla Protein Powder
- Banana
- Sugar Free Banana Pudding Mix
- Vanilla Extract
- Unsweetened Almond Milk
- Ice
Ingredient Notes
Vanilla Protein Powder: You can use any vanilla protein powder that you like but my personal favorite is Kos Vanilla Protein Powder. I order it from Amazon.
Sugar Free Banana Pudding: I really like using Simply Delish pudding for this recipe. It does not contain any artificial sweetener like most grocery stores brands do. It is a little hard to find in the grocery stores so I order it online directly from their website (affiliate link). You can use my code RACHELO to get a discount – I like ordering a big box with all of their flavors because I use it all the time for my healthy treats.
Banana: I like to use a frozen banana in this recipe because it really enhances the creaminess and thickness of the shake without having to use extra ice (which can sometimes dilute the flavor).
How to make a Banana Protein Shake: Step by Step
Here are quick visual instructions. Be sure to check out the full instructions with exact ingredients in the recipe card below.
Step 1: Start by adding your ice, milk, protein, pudding mix, vanilla, and banana to a blender.
Step 2: Blend on high for 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 3: Pour into a large glass and top with optional whipped cream and vanilla wafer.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Use ripe bananas: Opt for ripe bananas with brown spots as they will add natural sweetness and a smoother texture to your shake.
- Adjust the consistency: If you prefer a thicker shake, you can reduce the amount of almond milk. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner consistency, increase the almond milk or reduce the ice.
- How to freeze your banana: My favorite way to freeze my bananas is to slice the banana into approximately 1-inch thick pieces. Place the banana slices into individual freezers bags, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer to prevent them from sticking together. Seal the bag tightly, removing any excess air, and place it in the freezer.
Time Saving Tip: You can also buy frozen, pre-sliced bananas at Walmart in the freezer section.
Additions and Substitutions
SUBSTITUTIONS
Almond Milk: Any milk will work in this recipe. Feel free to substitute with cow’s milk, cashew milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
ADDITIONS
Nut Butter: Add a tablespoon of almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter to introduce a creamy and nutty taste. This addition also provides healthy fats and a small boost of protein.
Greek yogurt: Incorporating a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt will add some creaminess and extra protein.
Cinnamon or nutmeg: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon to add some extra flavor to your shake. These spices complement the banana and vanilla perfectly.
Spinach or kale: Sneak in some leafy greens by adding a handful of spinach or kale to the shake. This is a great way to boost your vegetable intake and add extra nutrients without compromising the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the pudding mix adds extra flavor and creaminess, but it is not essential. You can omit it from the recipe and still enjoy a delicious banana protein shake.
A protein shake with banana is a delicious and nutritious choice. Bananas bring natural sweetness, a creamy texture, and a range of nutrients to the shake. They provide energy, support muscle recovery, aid digestion, and offer versatility in flavor.
Yes, you can enjoy a banana shake every day as part of a balanced diet, as long as it aligns with your nutritional goals and dietary requirements.
It is generally recommended to enjoy the shake immediately after preparing it for the best taste and texture. However, if needed, you can refrigerate the shake for a short period, but keep in mind that it may separate and the texture may change.
Banana Protein Shake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups ice cubes
- ½ a cup of Almond Milk
- 1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder
- 2 tablespoons Sugar Free Banana Cream Pudding Mix
- 1 teaspoon of Vanilla
- 1 medium banana sliced
- Whipped Cream optional
- 2 Vanilla Wafers optional
Instructions
- Start by adding your ice, milk, protein, pudding mix, vanilla, and banana to a blender.
- Blend on high for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Pour into your glass and top with whip cream.
- Crumble one wafer up and sprinkle on your whip cream. Add the remaining cookie to the top.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Using ripe bananas will add natural sweetness and a smoother texture to your shake.
- If you prefer a thicker shake, you can reduce the amount of almond milk. Conversely, if you prefer a thinner consistency, increase the almond milk or reduce the ice.
- I recommend using a frozen banana as it really enhances the creaminess and thickness of the shake without having to use extra ice (which can sometimes dilute the flavor).
- Nutritional facts were calculated without the optional whipped cream and vanilla wafers.
Nutrition
The nutritional details for recipes are estimated using MyFitnessPal and can vary with different products, measurement accuracy, and source reliability. We aim to provide accurate information but cannot guarantee the precise accuracy of the nutritional data
This smoothie is deliciously decadent and worthy of dessert. Thanks for sharing.
So easy and so darn delicious! I love these simple, healthy ingredients. Who says a protein can’t be crave-worthy. This one sure is! Thanks for sharing!