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I started making this banana protein shake on days when I needed something quick that didn’t feel like a compromise. It’s creamy from almond milk, naturally sweet with banana and vanilla bean powder, and has just enough cinnamon to make it feel cozy.
The texture gets extra thick and almost milkshake-like thanks to cauliflower, which is one of those ingredients I don’t really notice but definitely appreciate for the added creaminess and fiber. And with 38 grams of protein, it’s one of the few quick breakfasts that actually keeps me full and steady through busy mornings and those long stretches where lunch feels way too far away.
Try my strawberry protein shake, peanut butter protein shake and low-calorie protein shake, or browse all my healthy protein shakes you can whip up in minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Almond milk: A light, smooth base that lets the other flavors shine.
- Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and extra protein to make it more satisfying.
- Banana: The natural sweetener that gives that classic smoothie texture.
- Cauliflower florets: Gives the shake a thick and creamy texture without affecting the flavor.
- Vanilla bean powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and warm vanilla flavor.
- Cinnamon: Brings a hint of cozy warmth.
- Protein powder: Boosts the protein to keep you full longer.
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How to Make a Banana Protein Shake
- Start by adding the almond milk and sliced banana to your blender.
- Add the Greek yogurt and blend on high in a high-speed-blender until smooth.
- Add vanilla bean powder, cinnamon, and protein powder.
- Blend everything on low until combined, then pour it into your glass and enjoy.
Recipe Tips
- Freeze bananas ahead of time for that thick smoothie texture.
- I use Isopure protein isolate in this recipe, but if you’re vegan, try my homemade protein powder or choose your own instead.
- Need a new blender? Try my recommended smoothie blenders that work great for shakes too!
If you make this banana protein shake, I’d love to hear how it turned out in the comment box below. Your feedback helps me and all the readers in this community. And if you’re interested in more plant-based recipes (and exclusive content), sign up for my weekly recipe newsletter.
Banana Protein Shake
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk unsweetened
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 ½ bananas sliced and frozen
- ½ cup cauliflower florets frozen
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 serving protein powder
Instructions
- Blend almond milk, Greek yogurt, bananas and cauliflower on high speed until smooth.
- Add vanilla bean powder, cinnamon, and protein powder, then blend on low to combine.
- Pour into a glass, top with banana slices if desired, and enjoy.
Helpful Tools
Notes
- Lighten up: Swap almond milk for water.
- Texture: Add more almond milk for a thinner shake or less for a thicker blend. You can also use a frozen banana to make it thicker.
- Adjust flavor: If it tastes flat, add a tiny pinch of salt to bring everything to life.
- Milk options: Swap almond milk with another non-dairy milk alternative.
- Yogurt swap: Choose dairy-free yogurt to keep it fully plant-based.
- Extra boost: Add nut butter for richness or chia or flaxseed for fiber.
Nutrition
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Leave a review for a chance to win signed copies of my cookbooks!Common Questions
It can be a helpful option if you’re focusing on weight loss because it’s high in protein, which helps keep you full for longer and reduces the urge to snack. That said, it works best as part of a balanced diet rather than a standalone “weight loss” fix.
Nope, no cooking needed. Just use raw frozen cauliflower florets, they blend right in and you won’t taste them at all. They just make the shake thicker and add extra fiber.
Yes, you can. The shake will just be a bit less thick and slightly lower in protein. If you skip it, you can add a little extra protein powder, banana, or even some nut butter to keep it creamy.
Use a frozen banana instead of fresh—that’s the biggest difference. You can also slightly reduce the almond milk or add a few extra cauliflower florets to naturally thicken it without watering down the flavor.
