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As a busy mom trying to stay healthy and energized, I know how hard it can be to find something that’s both nutritious and satisfying. That’s why I’m obsessed with this Salted Caramel Protein Shake—it’s a great choice when I need a hearty breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up that’s packed with 30 grams of protein.
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Why I Love this Protein Shake Recipe
This shake is a perfect way to stay on track with my weight loss and wellness goals. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and fiber helps curb my cravings, keeps me full, and supports my metabolism all day long. It’s easy to make, delicious, and keeps me feeling good about my choices.
If you’re like me—juggling family life, busy mornings, and your health goals—this Salted Caramel Protein Shake is a must-try. It’s quick, nutritious, and keeps me on track, whether I’m drinking it for breakfast, as a snack, or even sharing it with my family. They love it too, so it’s a win-win all around.
Next time you’re craving something sweet and filling, give this shake a try. I promise you’ll love it! It’s the perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition—just what we need to stay energized and confident every day!
Salted Caramel Protein Shake Ingredients
This shake is a game-changer for me because it’s so much more than just a tasty treat. It’s a perfect blend of healthy fats, plant-based protein, and natural sweetness. Let’s highlight the star ingredients to help you appreciate this recipe even more:
- Cashew milk: It’s creamy and smooth, making it the perfect base for this shake. Plus, it’s dairy-free, which is easier on my stomach and keeps me feeling good. You can even make cashew milk at home for an extra-fresh, simple option.
- Chickpeas: I know it sounds a bit unusual, but chickpeas are such a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. They keep me feeling full and satisfied, which helps with my weight loss goals.
- Cashew butter: This adds richness to the shake, and I love that it’s packed with healthy fats. It’s also a great source of magnesium and zinc, which help me stay energized and keep my immune system strong.
- Medjool dates & coconut sugar: These two are my secret weapons for a caramel-like sweetness, without all the processed sugar. The dates are packed with fiber and antioxidants, and the coconut sugar is just the right touch of sweetness.
- Protein powder: Use whatever you like— or try my homemade protein powder.
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How to Chill a Protein Shake
You can blend ice, pour over ice or put in the fridge for a few minutes to chill down this salted caramel protein shake. For extra tips on blending, see how to make a smoothie.
More Protein Shake Recipes
Shakes a great way to start the day and they are also great for workouts. Whether you need a light meal before a workout, or a recovery beverage, these weight loss smoothies and healthy protein shakes are just perfect for you: beans
If you make this salted caramel protein smoothie, 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.
Salted Caramel Protein Shake
Jen HansardVideo
Ingredients
- 1 cup cashew milk
- ¼ cup chickpeas drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon cashew butter
- 2-3 Medjool dates pitted
- 2 teaspoon coconut sugar
- 1 cup ice
- 1 serving protein powder
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt, unrefined
Instructions
- Pour the cashew milk into a blender. Add the chickpeas, cashew butter, dates, coconut sugar, protein powder and salt.
- Add the ice and blend on high until smooth and frosty, 45 to 60 seconds. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
- Nut Butter Swaps: Almond butter or peanut butter works in place of the cashew butter.
- Lower Sugar: Skip the coconut sugar; the dates still sweeten the shake. If you like it sweeter, add another date or other natural sweeteners.
- Blender Tip: If your blender struggles with ice, leave it out and pour the shake over ice instead, or chill the blended shake for 30 minutes.
- Storing: Best fresh, but it keeps in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake before drinking, or re-blend with a few ice cubes to bring back the frosty texture.
Nutrition
Common Questions
Yes, absolutely! You can swap cashew milk for any non-dairy milk like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk. If you’re not dairy-free, you can use regular cow’s milk or any milk of your choice.
If you don’t have cashew butter, you can substitute it with almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter. Each option will add its own unique flavor, but they’ll still provide that rich, creamy texture.
You can use natural sweeteners like more Medjool dates or a splash of maple syrup. For a caramel flavor, you could also add a small pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract, which can enhance the sweetness without adding extra sugar.
You can use natural sweeteners like more Medjool dates or a splash of maple syrup. For a caramel flavor, you could also add a small pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract, which can enhance the sweetness without adding extra sugar.
Yes! You can swap the protein powder for your favorite type, whether it’s whey protein, plant-based protein (like pea or hemp), or collagen powder. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on the sweetness and texture of the protein powder you’re using.
Yes, this shake can easily be made vegan if you use plant-based protein powder, a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk, and ensure your cashew butter is dairy-free. The Medjool dates and coconut sugar also fit into a vegan diet.
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Live the addition of dates! I have never before put them in a smoothie. Delicious!
I’ve been trying to add in more energy smoothies during outside workouts in this Florida summer heat, and this was a great addition! I didn’t get the sugar rush I might have if sipping this without the workout, which was a bonus.
I was a little skeptical of chickpeas in my smoothie but it totally works! Thanks for another great recipe!
The kids and I both loved this recipe!
It didn’t have as much flavor as I had anticipated, but it is definitely filling and nutritious.