Protein shakes are a quick and delicious way to get your healthy fats, calories, and protein in for the day or a meal. However, not all shakes and powders are created equally as yummy or smooth.

We'll show you how to make a protein shake that fits your needs and share recipes that have the best flavors. Read below to find out!

 

How to Make a Protein Shake with Protein Powder

 

Step 1: Grab a Shaker Bottle

Step one for a perfect protein shake is the device you use to mix it all together. Shaker bottles are the best if you're on the go or chilling at home.

You don't have to stop to plug in a blender, and you can mix your shake quickly wherever you are. Whether you are finishing up at the gym or dropping the kids off at school, shaker bottles help you get the healthy meal you're needing.

Even if you're at home, protein shaker bottles get the job done in one container for less clean-up, and you're back to the other task you were doing quickly with your drink in hand. The metal wire whisk inside breaks up any clumps better than stirring with a spoon as well as limiting dirty dishes.

 

Step 2: Pick a Protein Powder

Picking a protein powder is going to be based completely on your individual needs and goals. There are options for every dietary restriction at this point.

If you need gluten-free or dairy-free, opt for a powder that excludes those ingredients. A lot of people look for healthier, organic powders, and those exist too! It will most likely tell you right on the front of the container.

To replace a meal you will need at least fifteen grams of protein. For those focused on muscle building before or after workouts, you will need about 0.72 grams per pound of body weight for the entire day.

While chocolate and vanilla are the most commonly used powders, competitors have gotten creative with new flavor varieties. You can easily find fruit options like orange and peach mango. If you want to get wild, there are even powders with a sour patch kid crossover flavor.

 

Step 3: Choose a Liquid

For the best taste and texture, milk is the king. For those with lactose intolerance, nut milk or soy milk are great substitutes. However, you can think outside the box by mixing in one of these beverages:

• Coffee
• Apple Juice
• Orange Juice
• Gatorade
  

Water may seem boring, but, with the right powder and additives, it can taste good and get the job done. Keep in mind, that our shaker bottles aren't meant to have warm/hot liquids or any carbonated beverages in them.

 

Step 4: Additions to Your Protein Shake

You might be thinking the only things you can put in a protein shake in a shaker bottle are powder and liquid, but that's not the case at all! Did you know that peanut butter and even some fruits can be mixed in? The BlenderBall and our patented mixing system help to mix ingredients you may not be able to otherwise.

If you want a stronger chocolate or vanilla flavor, add cocoa powder or vanilla extract. Change up your normal chocolate shake by adding a drop of peppermint oil.

Sliced avocado tossed in can up the healthy fat content and make your full feeling last longer. Collagen has a host of benefits and adds even more protein to your shake. The addition of yogurt can create a creamier consistency and add probiotics.

Adding peanut butter, additional nutritional powders, superfoods, yogurt, or other additives is a great way to make your shake thicker if your desire. It is also a great way to add additional nutrition to your shake or to get additional calories for those looking to bulk.

Adding your liquids first is how to mix protein into your shake for the best consistency. After liquids, add any powders you want and end with your thicker ingredients. Once your ingredients have all been added, simply shake your protein shaker until smooth.

You should also be storing your protein powder in a cool, dry place so it's not already clumping before you add it to your shaker. Looking to make your shake even colder? Add crushed ice to your shake before mixing.

A tasty protein shake starts with a protein powder that you've tested and know you enjoy. Once you've laid that foundation, you can adjust ingredients so you never have to drink the same boring shake every day.

If you're feeling fruity one day, scoop in some blackberry yogurt like in this blackberry banana chocolate protein shake recipe. You could also take the tropical route by adding pineapple juice and grated coconut.

Maybe you'd like a boost of energy to start your morning off right. Instead of your normal mug of coffee, cool off by adding some chilled espresso to your morning shake as this caramel macchiato protein shake calls for. If green tea is more to your taste, a tablespoon of matcha will give you flavor and major antioxidants.

Taste that "It's 5 o clock somewhere" goodness without the guilt by including margarita mix in your shaker bottle. This cherry lime margarita BCAA shake recipe will have your tastebuds cheering.

We are overflowing with great-tasting protein shake possibilities. For a full list of shaker bottle-friendly recipes, visit our recipes page and search for your favorite ingredients or flavors. You can find those here!

 

Enjoy Your Protein Shake

Now you know all there is to know about how to make a protein shake. For the most enjoyable protein shake experience, try our BlenderBottle shaker. The leak-proof lid will keep your shake from ending up on your counters or car instead of your mouth.

Our surgical-grade stainless steel wire whisk can stay right there in your cup without ever rusting. Even if your cup only contains water, you never have to worry. Shop our shaker bottles here!

FAQS:

Q: What’s the best way to make a protein shake at home with protein powder?
A: The best way to make a protein shake at home with protein powder starts with the right tools. A good shaker bottle is key for smooth, lump-free shakes. Simply add your protein powder, liquid (like milk, water, or even coffee for an energy boost), and any optional extras like peanut butter, fruit, or yogurt. Shake it up, and in just a few seconds, you’ll have a creamy, smooth shake.

For added convenience, you can prep your protein shakes ahead of time by mixing your dry ingredients and storing them in the fridge. When you’re ready to drink, just add your liquid and shake. This method makes it easy to get a well-mixed shake without the need for a blender or worrying about clumps.

Q: How can you make and mix a protein shake without a blender or shaker?
A: Making protein shakes without a blender is simple and convenient with a BlenderBottle. Just add your protein powder, liquid (like milk, water, or even coffee), and any other ingredients you’d like, such as peanut butter or yogurt. The BlenderBall wire whisk inside helps break up clumps, ensuring a smooth, lump-free shake every time—whether you're at home, at the gym, or on the go.

Q: How can you make a protein shake thicker and creamier?
A: For a thicker, creamier protein shake, consider adding ingredients like yogurt, peanut butter, or milk alternatives to enhance the texture and create a more satisfying shake. If you're looking to incorporate ingredients such as avocado or banana, mashing them beforehand is recommended to ensure a smoother mix.

With a BlenderBottle, preparing and mixing your protein shake is simple and mess-free—no extra equipment needed. The BlenderBall wire whisk blends everything evenly, giving you a consistent, lump-free shake every time.

For an even thicker consistency, try using chilled liquids or adjusting the amount to suit your preference. Just shake well and enjoy a smooth, creamy protein shake anytime, anywhere.

Q: How do you blend and mix a protein shake without lumps or clumps?
A: To blend and mix a protein shake without lumps or clumps, using a BlenderBottle is a simple and effective solution. Our BlenderBottle features the BlenderBall® wire whisk, which moves freely inside the bottle as you shake, breaking down protein powder and mixing ingredients evenly for a smooth, lump-free shake.

For the best results, start by adding your liquid of choice—whether it’s water, milk, or a milk alternative—before adding your protein powder. This helps prevent powder from sticking to the bottom. Once everything is in, secure the leak-proof lid and shake vigorously.

BlenderBottle's design makes it easy to achieve a perfectly blended shake anywhere—whether you're at home, at the gym, or on the go.

Q: Can you prep protein shakes ahead of time for convenience?
A: Yes, you can prep protein shakes ahead of time for added convenience. With the BlenderBottle ProStak, you can store your protein powder, supplements, and snacks in separate, stackable compartments, making it easy to have everything ready when you need it. Simply pre-measure your ingredients into the containers, and when you're ready, add your preferred liquid, secure the leak-proof lid, and shake for a smooth, clump-free drink.  

If you prefer to prepare the entire shake in advance, mix your ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick shake before drinking to ensure everything is well-mixed. With the ProStak’s secure seal and portable design, prepping your shakes ahead of time helps you stay on track with your nutrition, whether at work, the gym, or on the go.

Q: Can you add ice to protein shakes to make them colder and thicker?
A: Yes, adding ice to your protein shake is a great way to make it colder and thicker. Using a BlenderBottle® stainless steel shaker helps keep your shake chilled for hours while ensuring a smooth mix. Simply add your protein powder, liquid, and a few ice cubes to your BlenderBottle, then shake— the BlenderBall® wire whisk will break up the powder and mix everything evenly, giving you a refreshing, clump-free shake.  

For an even thicker texture, try using less liquid or adding ingredients like yogurt or nut butter alongside the ice. With our stainless steel shakers, you can enjoy a cold, satisfying protein shake anytime, whether you're at the gym, work, or on the go.