This Cinnamon Roll Protein Shake tastes just like dessert but is packed with goodness! It combines creamy protein, sweet cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla for a yummy treat.
Who knew a shake could be this delightful? I love to sip on this after a workout—it feels like I’m treating myself without any guilt. Cheers to tasty health! 🥤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk is light and blends well. If you prefer dairy, regular milk or cashew milk works too. Oat milk is also a creamy option!
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder is the star here for flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, plant-based protein powder is perfect. You can also use unflavored protein if that’s what you have on hand.
Greek Yogurt: I love using plain Greek yogurt for its creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or silken tofu for a similar texture.
Ground Cinnamon: Essential for that warm, cinnamon roll flavor. You can substitute with cinnamon blend spice or pumpkin pie spice for a twist!
Almond Butter: This adds richness and healthy fats. Peanut butter works as a substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Frozen Banana: It gives natural sweetness and creaminess. You can swap it for a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup if you don’t have a banana.
How Do I Make the Shake Creamy and Delicious?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key. Here’s how to ensure your shake is smooth and enjoyable:
- Start with your liquids: always add the almond milk first. It helps the blender work better.
- When adding ice, don’t go overboard. 4-6 cubes provide nice thickness without making it too icy.
- Blend on high speed for at least 30 seconds. Stop and scrape down the sides to ensure everything mixes well.
- If you like it sweeter, taste the shake before serving and adjust sweetness with honey or more banana.
These steps will make your shake extra creamy and enjoyable every time! Enjoy your delicious, cinnamon roll-inspired shake! 🥤
How to Make a Cinnamon Roll Protein Shake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon almond butter (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/2 frozen banana (optional, for natural sweetness and texture)
- Ice cubes (about 4-6, depending on preferred thickness)
- Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
- Ground cinnamon, for garnish
- 1 cinnamon stick (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious shake takes about 10 minutes to make. It’s quick and perfect for a nutritious breakfast or a post-workout snack. Just blend, pour, and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Blend the Ingredients:
Start by adding the unsweetened almond milk, vanilla protein powder, Greek yogurt, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, optional almond butter, and frozen banana (if using) into your blender. The almond milk is the base and will help everything mix smoothly.
2. Add Ice:
Next, toss in about 4-6 ice cubes. This will give your shake that perfect thickness. Blend the mixture on high speed until it’s incredibly smooth and creamy. You might want to stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure everything is well mixed.
3. Pour and Top:
Once everything is blended and you have a creamy shake, pour it into a tall glass. If you’d like, feel free to add a dollop of whipped cream on top for that extra treat factor!
4. Garnish:
To make your shake look even more appealing, sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top and add a cinnamon stick as a garnish. It looks nice and gives a hint of cinnamon aroma as you drink!
5. Enjoy!
Serve your shake immediately and enjoy all the delicious cinnamon roll flavors in a healthy form. It’s a great way to indulge without any guilt!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond milk with any milk you prefer, such as soy milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly with different options.
Is This Shake Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just blend everything before consuming to maintain the freshness and smooth texture.
What If I Don’t Have Protein Powder?
No problem! If you don’t have protein powder, you can increase the amount of Greek yogurt for extra protein, or simply skip it for a lighter shake. You might want to add another source of flavor or sweetness if you do this.
How Do I Sweeten This Shake Naturally?
If you prefer a sweeter shake, you can add a bit of honey, maple syrup, or an extra half of a banana. Blend well to incorporate the sweetness evenly throughout the shake!
