This peanut butter protein shake recipe, made without banana, has become a staple in my post-workout routine for the past month. It's made with 7 simple ingredients, naturally sweetened with dates, and only takes a few minutes to prep and blend.
Full transparency: I have a huge sweet tooth and this recipe was created to satisfy those cravings as well as add some extra nutrient post-sweat. It tastes like a peanut butter milkshake and is easy to customize based on your mood, current cravings, or what's already in your pantry.
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Peanut butter protein shake ingredients
- Peanut butter: natural, pourable peanut butter with only peanuts (salt is also OK) listed in the ingredients works best. Other peanut butter will be too dry and chunks will remain.
- Medjool dates: naturally sweeten the shake and add fiber and antioxidants. Maple syrup works as a substitute for a smoother consistency.
- Protein powder: vanilla is my go-to but chocolate works well too. See the variation section below for some fun ideas.
- Flaxseed meal: adds omega-3 fatty acids and supports digestion.
- Adaptogen blend: I use Navitas Organics Superfood+ Adaptogen blend for an energy and stress support boost. It's totally optional as the shake is great without it.
- Plant-based milk: unsweetened vanilla almond or cashew milk are my favorites in this recipe. A plain variation of your favorite plant-based milk (oat, soy, hemp, etc.) work too.
- Ice: essential for a cold, creamy texture.
How to make a peanut butter protein shake
Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend for at least 45 seconds, or until smooth and creamy. A few helpful tips to note before you start:
- Use soft dates. if your dates are firm, soak them in hot water for 2-3 minutes, drain, then add to the blender. They'll blend much more smoothly.
- Texture preference. I love having little bits of dates remaining. Chewing smoothies sounds odd but is weirdly satisfying. Blend for a full minute if you prefer no bits, and thinly slicing the dates before adding helps too.
Chocolate peanut butter smoothie
Sometimes chocolate is a necessity. Here are a few easy ways to add it:
- Mix protein powder: swap half the vanilla protein for chocolate, or use a peanut butter chocolate blend.
- Cacao: add 1 heaping tablespoon of cacao nibs, cacao powder, or unsweetened cocoa powder
- Milk: use your favorite plant-based chocolate milk instead of regular.
- Vegan chocolate spread: add a spoonful of brownie batter granola butter or dark chocolate tahini for a rich, fugy flavor.
Ways to customize your protein shake
One of my favorite things about this shake is how easy it is to mix and match ingredients
- Superfoods: chia seeds (add an extra splash of milk) or hemp seeds.
- More protein and creaminess: vegan Greek yogurt or vanilla yogurt. Culina, Cocojune, and Siggi's are my favorites.
- Banana: add a fresh extra ripe banana or frozen banana for extra creaminess. If using frozen, skip the ice and adjust the milk as needed adding an extra splash at a time.
- Energy boost: a shot of espresso or splash of cold brew - or try my peanut butter coffee smoothie.
- Spices and warmth: cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom.
How to store
This peanut butter protein shake is best enjoyed immediately after blending. If you need to make it ahead, store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or re-blend with a few bits of ice before drinking as it will separate.
More vegan protein smoothies
- Vegan Strawberry Smoothie with Yogurt (No Banana)
- Healthy Snickers Protein Shake Recipe
- Blueberry Muffin Protein Smoothie
📋 Recipe
Peanut Butter Protein Shake Recipe (No Banana)
Equipment
- high speed blender
- measuring cup + spoons
Ingredients
- 10-12 ice cubes
- ½ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (+ an extra splash, more if needed*)
- 2 tablespoons creamy, all-natural peanut butter (salted or unsalted - add a pinch of salt if using unsalted)
- 2 Medjool dates, pitted **
- 1 serving size protein powder (1-2 scoops depending on the powder you use)
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal (sub chia seeds or hemp seeds)
- 1 teaspoon Navitas Organics Superfood+ Adaptogen blend optional
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend for at least 45 seconds or until smooth and creamy.
Notes
If this protein shake has become a part of your morning routine too, let me know in the comments below.
xo, Morgan
Katherine says
Excellent recipe! Thank you so much for creating one with no banana! I used Muscle Milk vanilla protein powder and did need to add more milk. Overall it was delicious!
Morgan says
Katherine, this just made my day! Thank you so much for trying the recipe and sharing your experience - it means so much to me. Cheers to more delicious smoothies!