Whether you’re mixing a morning smoothie after a quick workout or a creamy after-dinner treat, shakes are one of the simplest ways to add extra protein to your routine. From skyr and nut spreads to protein-enriched milks and puddings, there’s no shortage of delicious ways to blend in something extra.
Here’s how to choose the best protein for shakes, match it to your favourite flavours, and find new ways to shake things up.
What makes protein shakes so easy and versatile?
Protein shakes are a quick, tasty and endlessly customisable option that easily fits into any routine. With just a handful of ingredients and a blender, you have the perfect canvas for creating flavours and textures you enjoy.
Plus, they’re incredibly simple to make, easy to take with you in a cup or travel mug, and just as welcome first thing in the morning as they are after a run or before bed. Best of all? You can make them exactly how you like them – fruity, creamy, chocolatey, or loaded with toppings.
The best protein for shakes
When it comes to protein for shakes, you have a lot of choices. The “best” one really depends on your taste and what you have on hand. Here are some of the most shake-friendly options:
Protein-enriched milk: quick, easy and convenient, protein-enriched milk adds a subtle creaminess and blends seamlessly into any shake.
Skyr, Greek yoghurt, or kefir: naturally high in protein, these cultured dairy favourites add tang and a velvety texture that works especially well in richer blends.
Cottage or ricotta cheese: light and mild, they make shakes thicker and more indulgent – perfect when you want something with a dessert-like feel.
Nut spreads: just a spoonful adds smooth richness and a soft, nutty flavour that rounds out fruit or cocoa-based blends beautifully.
Protein puddings: with their ready-to-blend texture, they bring a creamy, dessert-like quality that makes any shake feel a little more indulgent.
Egg whites: a great protein for shakes due to their neutral flavour and high protein. They blend easily for a silky finish or can be whipped into a light, foamy topping.
Seeds: chia, hemp, sunflower, and pumpkin seeds bring texture, a touch of nuttiness, and a sprinkle of protein, whether blended in or added on top.
How to add protein to your shakes
Now that you have list of the best protein for shakes, there are plenty of simple ways to stir, scoop or spoon them into your blend. Here are a few of our favourite techniques to try:
Swap it: swap any liquid ingredients (like water or juice) for protein-rich alternatives. Protein-enriched milk or kefir work especially well as light, pourable options that blend smoothly and add an extra protein boost.
Blend it: add your protein straight to the blender. They help build a creamy base, while bringing texture and flavour to the mix.
Top it: Sprinkle seeds like chia, hemp, or pumpkin over your shake for a little crunch and visual flair. Or finish with a spoonful of protein pudding or skyr blended with nut spread for added richness.
Whip it: pasteurised egg whites can be blended with any frozen fruit for a soft, airy foam, perfect for a café-style topping. Whipped ricotta also works well to add a smooth, creamy layer.
Swirl it: after pouring your shake into a glass, swirl in something with texture – like protein pudding, nut spread, or skyr – for ribbons of flavour.
Protein for shakes: how to match the right one to your shake style
Fruity and fresh
For fruit-forward shakes, you’ll want proteins that keep things light and bright. Choose ingredients that blend smoothly, add a subtle tang, and let sweet and tart flavours shine.
Use: Skyr, Greek yoghurt, kefir, plain- or vanilla flavoured protein milk, egg whites.
Best with: Berries, bananas, and tropical fruits like mango and pineapple.
Try this:
Creamy and dessert-inspired
The best protein for shakes that feel like a treat are those that bring body and richness. These ingredients create velvety, spoonable textures that pair beautifully with sweet, indulgent flavours.
Use: Cottage cheese, ricotta, protein pudding, nut spreads.
Best with: Cocoa, vanilla, dates, peanut butter, banana, oats.
Try this:
Green and earthy
Green shakes work best with milder proteins that blend in smoothly without overpowering the fresh, earthy flavours. These options add a subtle creaminess and support lighter, more refreshing blends.
Use: protein milk, skyr, plain yoghurt, egg whites.
Best with: spinach, avocado, kiwi, apple, matcha.
Try this:
Chocolatey and rich
For chocolate lovers, pick proteins that complement deep cocoa flavours and enhance richness. These choices create a thick, satisfying texture that feels indulgent, but are easy to blend.
Use: protein pudding, cottage cheese, nut spreads, chocolate protein milk.
Best with: chocolate, cocoa powder, banana, dates, vanilla, oats.
Try this:
Coffee flavoured
Bold coffee flavours love creamy, mellow protein additions. These options balance the intensity with smooth textures and subtle sweetness.
Use: protein milk, skyr, vanilla or mocha-flavoured protein milk, nut spreads.
Best with: Cold brew, espresso, cocoa, banana.
Try this:
Found your favourite blend? There’s more where that came from – dive into our full collection of protein shakes, smoothies and drinks you can make at home.
