Creamy chocolate and tangy raspberries make this delicious protein shake the perfect breakfast or post-workout meal. Try this Chocolate Raspberry Protein Shake for a tasty supplement to your diet.
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I have used protein shakes in my diet for about 20 years. During my quest to become healthier I discovered the importance of protein. I wanted to gain muscle and look toned and simply cutting calories wasn't going to help me achieve my goal. Most people do not eat enough protein to gain muscle. I found that adding a protein shake was a quick solution.
What is a protein Shake?
A protein shake is different from a smoothie because it has ingredients that are high in protein while smoothies are typically fruit and vegetable based. Now you can still add fruit to the protein shake which I completely recommend. This will help flavor your shake and give it a creamier texture.
Of course you have to be careful with protein shakes not becoming calorie overloaded. Some protein powders are geared more for people trying to add weight so they are higher in calories. Check your labels and look for a protein powder between 100-150 calories with about 20 grams of protein.
If you add extras such as peanut butter, milk and fruit you can have a shake that is easily over 300 calories! This is not my goal. I want something that tastes great but still keeps my calories in check.
How do I use protein shakes?
When I began drinking protein shakes and I thought there was this magical time when I had to drink it. Do I do drink pre or post workout? And do I still drink it on days I’m not working out? I know this is a highly debated topic and I am sure nutrition experts could disagree with me. However, I feel that if you have a goal to tone and shape your body what's important is to consume the appropriate amount of protein throughout the day. Your body needs protein to rebuild and grow muscle. If you are really interested in the science behind it check out this article!
Keep in mind you do not want to exceed your calories while adding extra protein. If you are unsure the amount of calories and protein your body needs there are many apps that can help you calculate and track your progress.
how do I make a protein shake at home?
Making a protein shake at home is very easy and will save you money. There are many different types of blenders to choose from. I really love my Ninja blender and I use it for other things like salad dressings and marinades too!
Now it is not completely necessary to have a blender to make a protein shake. If you are on the go they do make blender cups and you can simple mix water with protein powder. Of course you wouldn’t be able to make this recipe. Honestly, I’ve never had very good results with shakes from this method. They tend to be just thin and watery. I like using a blender because by crushing the frozen fruit and ice it becomes milkshake consistency and I can trick myself to thinking I’m having a dessert. Hey if it curbs my sweet tooth that’s a win!
Making a shake will only take a couple of minutes. Add all of the ingredients to the cup of your blender. I always add the liquid first because if you add the powder first I find it sticks to the sides more. Attach your lid and connect it to the base and blend. Sometimes you may need to add more milk to thin out the shake or ice to thicken depending on your preferences. I really like protein shakes thick like milkshake consistency.
Do I have to use frozen fruit in my protein shake?
Frozen fruit is not absolutely necessary. However, I find that by having the fruit frozen I use less ice which waters the shake down. Especially if you are using bananas your shake will be so much better if you freeze them first. Frozen bananas makes your shake extra creamy!
If you are new to protein shakes just experiment and see what flavors you like best. I keep chocolate and vanilla protein on hand and can make a huge variety of different flavor combinations just by changing what I add in. The key point to remember is that this is supposed to be healthy so watch what and how much you add!
Did you try this recipe? Please let me know what you think! Leave a comment below, and a 5- star rating. I would love to hear from you! Subscribe Here to get new recipes sent straight to your inbox!
Chocolate Raspberry Protein Shake
Equipment
- blender
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk
- ⅓ cup frozen raspberries
- ⅓ cup crushed ice
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- ½ tablespoon dark chocolate cocoa powder* optional
Instructions
- Fill blender cup with all ingredients starting with liquid first.
- Screw blender lid onto cup and blend for 30-60 seconds until all fruit and ice is smooth. If needed all extra milk to thin out.
- Drink right away for the best taste and texture.
Notes
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