Blend up the best of both worlds with this dessert-like Cookies and Cream Protein Shake.
I have a total sweet tooth, which makes sticking to a strict healthy diet close to impossible. I legit need something sweet after having a delicious savory lunch or dinner.
Sometimes, I go for something sweet for breakfast to help the craving. But if I could choose, I would like to have chocolate throughout the day, every day. That’s where this cookies and cream protein shake comes in; it makes enjoying a milkshake, any time of day, totally acceptable and nutritious!
Aside from the optional graham cracker topping, using all-natural ingredients makes you feel good about enjoying this cookies and cream protein shake. Between work, family, and life in general, it is easy to grab a bag of chips or a few bites of your kid’s mac and cheese when you’re hungry. But making a cookies and cream protein shake takes just five minutes, and will likely keep you feeling fuller than any item in the pantry.
This cookies and cream protein shake has that perfect chocolatey and creamy vanilla balance but without the high-sugar, high-carb Oreos. Similar to our Chocolate, Peanut Butter, and Banana Smoothie and Coffee Smoothie, this cookies and cream protein shake relies on natural ingredients for flavor, and you can use whichever protein powder you like for extra personalization.
Is a Cookies and Cream Protein Shake Healthy?
It sure is! This cookies and cream shake is a good source of protein, can be beneficial for muscle recovery, and can keep you feeling fuller longer. As long as you are mindful of what is in your protein powder, this shake is dairy-free, vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly.
Almond milk is a great non-dairy option used in this shake that contains essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, both cocoa powder and vanilla extract contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation when consumed regularly.
What is the best protein powder for this cookies and cream protein shake?
Go into any grocery store or health food store and you will find a variety of protein powder brands and flavors to choose from – and the number only increases if you shop online. So which one is the best?
I recommend looking for one that is natural and “clean” without tons of additives or sweeteners. For my cookies and cream protein shake, I used Transparent Labs Whey Protein Isolate, which is affordable and has no added sugar. However, this particular variety is vanilla flavored and not vegan. The brand also makes a vegan protein with pea powder, which isn’t too bad.
Just be sure to read the labels and take time to research exactly what you are looking to get out of your protein powder.
How To Make Ahead And Store
A cookies and cream protein shake can be made up to 24 hours before serving and should be refrigerated in a sealed shaker or mason jar. You can also measure the dry ingredients ahead of time and blend them with the wet ingredients when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Serving Suggestions
While this cookies and cream protein shake is tasty and nutritious, it should not be your only source of protein! It is a perfect light snack, but for a satisfying full meal, enjoy it with some healthy carbs such as Carrot Cake Oatmeal, or Banana Pancakes.
You can also enjoy your protein shake with something high in fiber. Try this delicious Mediterranean Bowl or serve with apple slices and Almond Butter for dipping.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup crushed ice
- 1 chocolate graham cracker crushed
- Whipped cream for garnishing (optional)
- Chocolate syrup for garnishing (optional)
Instructions
- Combine protein powder, almond milk, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, crushed chocolate graham cracker, and ice in a high-speed blender.
- Blend until thick and smooth.
- Pour the shake into a glass and garnish with optional toppings like whipped topping or chocolate syrup.
Nutrition Info:
Recipes written and produced on Food Faith Fitness are for informational purposes only.
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