This Cottage Cheese Protein Shake is a creamy, high-protein drink that’s perfect for post-workout recovery or a quick, satisfying breakfast. Naturally thick and packed with protein and healthy ingredients, this shake is not only delicious but also super easy to customize to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein: Packed with cottage cheese and protein powder for muscle recovery and sustained energy.
- Thick & Creamy: Naturally thick without the need for yogurt or bananas (though we’re using one for extra sweetness).
- Quick & Easy: Takes just 5 minutes to blend and enjoy.
- Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to fit your dietary needs or flavor preferences.
Ingredients
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or flavor of choice)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
- ½ cup ice cubes
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Blend the Ingredients
- Add all ingredients to a blender: cottage cheese, almond milk, frozen banana, protein powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), honey (if desired), and ice cubes.
- Blend Until Smooth
- Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust consistency by adding more almond milk if needed.
- Taste & Adjust
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more honey or sweetener.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately as a quick, protein-packed snack or breakfast!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 1
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per serving
Variations
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based protein powder and dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives.
- Extra Fiber: Add 1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds or chia seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s.
- Nut Butter Boost: Blend in 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter for added richness.
- Chocolate Lover’s Shake: Swap vanilla protein powder for chocolate protein powder and add 1 teaspoon cocoa powder.
- Berry Twist: Replace banana with ½ cup frozen mixed berries for a fruity version.
Storage
- Fresh is Best: This shake is best enjoyed immediately, but if needed, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Shake Before Drinking: If storing, stir or shake before drinking, as separation may occur.
FAQs
1. Is cottage cheese good in protein shakes?
Yes! Cottage cheese blends smoothly, adding creaminess and a natural boost of protein without an overpowering taste.
2. Can I make this shake without protein powder?
Absolutely! Just add extra cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for additional protein.
3. How can I make this shake sweeter without adding sugar?
Try adding a Medjool date, a few drops of vanilla stevia, or extra banana for natural sweetness.
4. Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes! Use any milk of your choice, such as dairy milk, oat milk, or cashew milk.
5. Does this shake taste like cottage cheese?
Not at all! The banana, vanilla, and cinnamon mask the flavor, making it taste like a creamy milkshake.
6. How can I make this shake thicker?
Use less milk or add extra ice cubes for a thicker consistency.
7. Is this shake good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s high in protein, low in sugar, and keeps you full longer, making it great for weight management.
8. Can I make this shake vegan?
Yes! Replace cottage cheese with plant-based cottage cheese or silken tofu and use vegan protein powder.
9. What’s the best way to blend this shake smoothly?
Use a high-speed blender and blend for at least 30-45 seconds for the creamiest texture.
10. Can I add coffee to this shake?
Yes! Add ½ cup of cold brew coffee or espresso for an energizing protein coffee shake.
Conclusion
This Cottage Cheese Protein Shake is a delicious, creamy, and protein-packed drink that’s perfect for breakfast, post-workout recovery, or an anytime snack. It’s incredibly easy to make, customizable to your taste, and full of healthy ingredients. Whether you want to fuel up after exercise or enjoy a nutritious smoothie, this shake is a must-try!
Print
Cottage Cheese Protein Shake
This Cottage Cheese Protein Shake is a thick, creamy, and high-protein smoothie perfect for post-workout recovery or a quick, nutritious breakfast. Blended with banana, vanilla, and protein powder, this easy shake is naturally sweet and packed with muscle-fueling protein.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1
Ingredients
- ½ cup low-fat cottage cheese
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or flavor of choice)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
- ½ cup ice cubes
Instructions
Step 1: Blend the Ingredients
- Add cottage cheese, almond milk, frozen banana, protein powder, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), honey (if desired), and ice cubes to a blender.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
- Blend on high speed until creamy and smooth.
- Adjust consistency by adding more almond milk if needed.
Step 3: Taste & Adjust
- Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary by adding more honey or sweetener.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately as a protein-packed snack or breakfast!
Notes
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based protein powder and dairy-free cottage cheese alternatives.
- Extra Fiber: Add 1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds or chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3s.
- Nut Butter Boost: Blend in 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter for extra richness.
- Chocolate Lover’s Shake: Swap vanilla protein powder for chocolate protein powder and add 1 teaspoon cocoa powder.
- Berry Twist: Replace banana with ½ cup frozen mixed berries for a fruity variation.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks Smoothies
- Method: Blended
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
