A strawberry shortcake protein shake recipe is the perfect way to start the day! Made with healthy ingredients with no added sugar, this strawberry shortcake protein shake recipe is packed with protein and fiber. This healthy strawberry shake recipe is also quick, easy and so filling.
Jump to RecipeIf you’re looking for a delicious protein smoothie, try this strawberry shortcake protein shake recipe– it’s sweet and super filling. You can enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack or dessert, which is my preference. Made with easy ingredients and no added sugar, this date smoothie is packed full of protein and fiber. It’s going to keep you feeling full for a while!
A protein smoothie is one of my personal favorites because its a quick and easy breakfast or post-workout snack. I sometimes even make them for dessert as a way to fill me up and satisfy my sweet tooth while also providing me with vitamins and nutrients.
Just add some almond milk (or any milk of your choice), protein powder (you can omit this and use other ingredients to help boost protein without protein powder), vanilla extract and frozen strawberries. So simple and so easy and it tastes just like a strawberry shake except this one is a high protein strawberry shake.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake Recipe
- High in protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, as well as for keeping you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. Our shake contains either vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt, both excellent sources of high-quality protein that will support your energy levels and keep cravings in check.
- Rich in fiber. Fiber is crucial for digestive health and maintaining stable blood sugar levels. The frozen strawberries in our shake are not only sweet and flavorful but also packed with fiber, helping you feel fuller for longer and promoting healthy digestion.
- Packed with vitamins and nutrients. Frozen strawberries are a nutritional powerhouse, providing a boost of vitamin C, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients. Combined with almond milk, which is rich in vitamin E and calcium, this shake offers a well-rounded array of vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellbeing.
- Quick and Easy. Busy mornings call for quick and convenient breakfast options, and our Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake fits the bill perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this nutritious shake in minutes, ensuring you start your day on the right foot even when time is tight.
Ingredients in a Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake Recipe
Frozen Strawberries: Opt for frozen strawberries to maintain the shake’s thick and creamy texture without the need for added ice, which can dilute the flavor. Frozen strawberries are not only convenient but also rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and minerals, offering a refreshing burst of flavor and a natural sweetness to the shake.
Vanilla Protein Powder (or Greek Yogurt): Vanilla protein powder adds a boost of protein to the shake, aiding in muscle repair and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Alternatively, Greek yogurt can be used as a protein-rich alternative to achieve a creamy consistency. Both options provide essential amino acids and nutrients necessary for optimal health and vitality.
Almond Milk: Almond milk serves as the liquid base for the shake, providing a subtle nutty flavor and a creamy texture. It’s a great dairy-free alternative packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and calcium, to support bone health and overall wellbeing. However, feel free to substitute with dairy milk or any other plant-based milk of your choice, such as soy or oat milk.
Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor profile to the shake, complementing the sweetness of the strawberries perfectly. Beyond its culinary appeal, cinnamon boasts potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Feel free to customize the spice blend according to your taste preferences, experimenting with options like nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a unique twist.
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract infuses the shake with a rich and aromatic vanilla flavor, enhancing its overall taste profile. It adds depth and complexity to the shake, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor, and adjust the amount according to your preference for a hint of sweetness and warmth.
How to Make a Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake Recipe
It’s so quick and easy to make this smoothie. Simply add all of the ingredients to a high speed blender and blend until smooth.
Tips to Perfect Your Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake
Enjoy Immediately: For the freshest taste and maximum nutritional benefit, it’s best to enjoy your Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake right away. As the ingredients begin to oxidize, they may lose some of their nutrients. However, if you need to make it ahead of time, store it in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Freeze your strawberries: To achieve that creamy texture without the need for ice, freeze your strawberries in advance. It takes about two hours for strawberries to freeze, so plan ahead by keeping a stash of frozen berries in your freezer. Not only does this save time, but it also allows for easy smoothie preparation, making it a convenient option for busy mornings or quick snacks.
Invest in a High-Speed Blender: A high-speed blender is essential for creating a smooth and velvety texture in your shake, especially when using ingredients like frozen strawberries. If you don’t have a high-speed blender, consider blending for an extra minute or two and periodically stirring with a long spoon to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Popular Substitutions and Additions
Chia Seeds: If you’re looking to boost the nutritional profile of your Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake without using protein powder, consider adding chia seeds. These tiny seeds are packed with protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a nutritious addition to any smoothie. Add a tablespoon or two of chia seeds into your shake and blend.
Hemp Seeds: Another excellent alternative to protein powder. These seeds are a complete source of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. Add 2-3 tablespoons of hemp seeds to your blender to boost the protein content and the creaminess of your shake.
Greek Yogurt: I like to add Greek yogurt in my Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake. Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and calcium, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor to your shake.
Almond Butter or Peanut Butter: If you’re craving a nutty flavor and additional protein in your shake, almond butter or peanut butter are fantastic additions. Both options are rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
Spinach or Kale: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale for an added nutritional boost without compromising the flavor of your shake. Spinach or kale are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them ideal additions to your Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake.
Oats: Add oats for a hearty and fiber-rich addition to your shake. Oats are a great source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, providing sustained energy and promoting digestive health. Incorporate a quarter cup of rolled oats into your shake for a satisfying and filling beverage that will keep you fueled throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
To enhance the flavor of your protein shake, consider adding ingredients such as fresh or frozen fruits (e.g., bananas, berries, mango), nut butters (e.g., almond butter, peanut butter), cocoa powder, vanilla extract, honey, or maple syrup. These additions not only add sweetness and depth to your shake but also provide additional nutrients and indulgent flavors.
Protein shakes are versatile and can be mixed with a variety of ingredients to create delicious and nutritious beverages. Some popular options include almond milk, dairy milk, coconut water, yogurt (such as Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt), brewed coffee, green tea, or even fruit juice. Experiment with different liquids to find your preferred flavor and consistency.
To make a protein shake thick and creamy like ice cream, you can use several techniques. First, ensure you’re using ingredients like frozen fruits (such as bananas, berries, or mango) or ice cubes to chill and thicken the shake. Additionally, consider adding thickening agents such as Greek yogurt, avocado, oats, chia seeds, or nut butters. These ingredients not only contribute to the shake’s thickness but also add creaminess and richness to the texture. Finally, adjust the liquid-to-solid ratio to achieve your desired consistency, adding more liquid for a thinner shake or reducing the liquid for a thicker consistency reminiscent of ice cream.
More Healthy Smoothie Recipes
- Best Protein Powder for Nursing Mothers
- High Protein High Fiber Smoothie
- High Fiber Smoothie Recipe for Weight Loss (Dietitian Approved)
This strawberry shortcake protein shake recipe is so quick and easy to make as a healthy breakfast or snack for yourself or your family. My kids love this smoothie recipe and it feels good knowing they are getting so many health benefits in.
If you’ve tried this strawberry shortcake protein shake recipe or any other recipe on TheMomNutritionist, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave me a comment below! And if you took some pictures of it, share it with me on Instagram so I can repost on my stories!
Strawberry Shortcake Protein Shake Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups frozen strawberries sliced
- 1 cup almond milk or milk of choice
- 1 serving vanilla protein powder optional (see popular substitutions and additions above)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt plain or vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place all the ingredients in a high-speed blender, and blend for 60-120 seconds until you get a smooth and creamy texture.
- Taste the smoothie, adding more milk if it is too thick or adding sweetener, like honey or maple syrup, if it’s not sweet enough for you. Pour into a cup or mason jar. Enjoy immediately, or store in fridge for up to 24 hours.