Making your protein shake nice and creamy isn’t always easy, especially if you don’t have much to work with or a good blender. But there are a few tricks of the trade that can help.
I keep certain ingredients on hand to ensure my protein shakes are creamy and delicious. I also stand by a few best practices that help minimize any sort of gritty, clumpy, or water texture.
Below are some tips on making a protein shake creamier and more enjoyable to drink.
1. Ditch the Ice
If your protein shake is turning out watery, it might be because you’re using ice. Instead, try using frozen fruit. Not only does this keep your shake cold, but it also adds natural sweetness and a thicker texture. Trust me, once you make the switch, you’ll never go back to ice cubes again.
2. Blend Greens First
Adding leafy greens to your shake is a great way to boost its nutritional value, but nobody likes a pulpy texture. To avoid this, blend your greens first. Liquefying spinach or kale before adding other ingredients ensures a smooth, creamy shake without any unwanted chunks.
3. Use Creamy Milk
The type of milk you use can make a huge difference in the creaminess of your shake. Creamy plant-based options like almond milk, cashew milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are fantastic choices. If you’re not vegan, whole milk or 2% milk works great too. These options add a rich texture that water just can’t compete with.
4. Add Avocado
Avocado might sound like an odd addition, but it’s a game-changer for creaminess. Just half an avocado can make your shake incredibly smooth and rich. Plus, it adds healthy fats and a subtle flavor that blends well with most ingredients. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed.
5. Bring in Banana
Bananas are a classic for a reason. They add natural sweetness and a creamy texture that’s hard to beat. Use a ripe banana for the best results, and if you want an extra thick shake, freeze the banana beforehand. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference.
6. Add Yogurt
Incorporating yogurt, especially Greek yogurt, into your protein shake can make it incredibly creamy and thick. Greek yogurt is particularly good because it’s thicker and has more protein than regular yogurt. It also adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with most fruits and protein powders.
7. Scoop in Nut Butters
Adding 1-2 tablespoons of nut butters like peanut butter or almond butter can significantly increase the creaminess and add a nutty flavor to your shake. They also provide healthy fats and additional protein, making your shake more satisfying and delicious.
8. Try Canned Coconut
Canned coconut milk is another excellent option for a creamy shake. It’s incredibly rich and adds a delicious coconut flavor. Just be mindful of the fat content if you’re trying to keep your shake low-calorie. You can always opt for the light version if you’re watching your intake.
9. Use a Creamy Protein Powder
Not all protein powders are created equal when it comes to creaminess. Some of my favorite vegan options that make for a smooth, creamy shake are Orgain Simple Protein, Birdman Organic Protein, PlantFusion Complete Protein, and Sunwarrior Warrior Blend. These products not only taste great but also deliver exceptional nutrition, are organic, and use clean ingredients.
10. Try Tofu
For a vegan option, silken tofu is an excellent choice. It blends smoothly and adds a silky texture to your shake, making it creamier without altering the flavor too much. Plus, it boosts the protein content significantly, making your shake a more balanced meal
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the creamiest, most delicious protein shakes ever. Happy blending!
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About the Author
This article is by Tyler Tafelsky, the lead editor at the Vegan Protein Powder Review. Endurance athlete and experienced health writer in the nutrition space, Tyler has tried hundreds of plant-based nutritional products and writes about his favorites here on this blog. View Tyler’s author bio or follow him on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram. You can also visit his site TylerTafelsky.com to see what he’s up to.