Protein Smoothie

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for my high protein smoothie, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.

• Fruit – I used a mix of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, but other fruit works, too (see my variations) below. Or feel free to use frozen berries if you want it extra thick!
• Protein Powder – I created this protein-rich smoothie when I was on a collagen kick (this one’s my favorite), but have since made it with other types of protein powder — any kind works. I do recommend getting one that’s unsweetened, as the sweetened kinds usually have added sugar, or a sweetener that leaves an aftertaste.
• Greek Yogurt – For extra protein, a boost of probiotics, and a lovely, tangy flavor. I usually make this with full-fat Greek yogurt, but lower fat varieties work fine. You can also use my coconut milk yogurt for a dairy-free option.
• Sweetener – I used Wholesome Yum Zero Sugar Simple Syrup for clean sweetness. My notes on other options:
  • My protein smoothie recipe also works with maple syrup or honey, or even my natural sugar-free maple syrup or sugar free honey.
  • For extra fruity flavor, swap in my real fruit syrups. They’re 100% natural with just 4 ingredient, and come in strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry.
  • I’ve also made it with Besti powdered sweetener, but you’ll need to add 1/2 to 3/4 cup of milk (any kind works) to make up for the lost liquid.
  • I don’t recommend other sugar substitutes here, because most kinds don’t dissolve well.
• Lemon Juice – Just a splash makes the berries pop even more. I adjust to taste depending on how tart my berries are.

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How To Make A Protein Smoothie

Honestly, I eyeball smoothies more often than not — it’s so easy to adjust the consistency and flavor as you go — but for my blog I always give you precise amounts without having to guess. You’ll find the ingredient amounts on the recipe card below.

Just blend everything together! I have this blender, pictured below, and it’s the best for making my protein smoothies very… well, smooth.

Recipe Variations

The one I have here is my favorite, but I’ve made so many more protein smoothie recipes over the years! Here are some swaps and additions I love:

• Other fruit – My kids love mango, pineapple, and peaches. You can use any fruit combination, as long as it adds up to about 3 1/4 cups.
• Nut butter – A spoonful of almond butter or peanut butter is great for extra protein, and makes this protein smoothie extra thick. Sunflower seed butter works for a nut-free version.
• Seeds – I like a few chia seeds on top for garnish, but feel free to blend them right in. (I recommend no more than 1-2 tablespoons, unless you add more liquid.) Hemp seeds or ground flaxseeds work well, too.
• Vanilla – A teaspoon of vanilla extract works well here.
• Chocolate – I’m not a fan of adding cocoa powder to this protein smoothie recipe, but I’ve totally added protein powder to my chocolate peanut butter smoothie. So good!
• Avocado – If you’ve tried my strawberry avocado smoothie, you know you won’t be able to taste it! If you add it to this triple berry version, you might need a splash of milk and more sweetener.

More Creamy Smoothie Recipes

If you’re craving even more creamy, dreamy blends, try one of my other smoothie recipes to try next — and you can totally add protein powder to them:

Banana Smoothie

Healthy Smoothie

Spinach Smoothie

Pumpkin Smoothie