Blueberry Protein Cheesecake Shake (No Banana)

Are you a protein shake lover like me? Do you crave a cool, refreshing, and protein-packed way to kickstart your day or refuel after a workout? Then you've come to the right place!

Today, we're taking a detour from the classic banana-based shakes. Don't get me wrong, I love a good banana in my protein shakes; they’re creamy, potassium-rich, and versatile. But sometimes, you just want to try something a little different! This recipe is for all my people who are looking for a delicious and nutritious banana-free option.

My Blueberry Protein Cheesecake Shake is a burst of vibrant blueberries, creamy cottage cheese, and a hint of vanilla, all blended into a protein-powered masterpiece.

Why Ditch the Banana?

While bananas are a fantastic addition to shakes, they do add natural sugar and carbohydrates. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, but if you're specifically focusing on a low-sugar shake or controlling your daily sugar intake, a banana-free recipe can be a great alternative.

This Blueberry Protein Cheesecake Shake offers a banana-free option with a touch of natural sweetness from frozen blueberries and creaminess from cottage cheese, making it a perfect post-workout pick-me-up or a satisfying afternoon snack.

Key Features:

• Protein-Packed: This recipe boasts an impressive 34 grams of protein per serving, thanks to the combination of protein powder and cottage cheese. Protein is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass, aiding in satiety, and supporting overall health.

• Added Creaminess: Cottage cheese adds delightful creaminess to the shake, replacing the need for added yogurt or high-fat milk options. It's also a sneaky way to add an extra protein boost!

• Frozen Blueberries: The blueberries in this recipe are the star of the show! They add vibrant color, a burst of antioxidants and vitamin C, and a touch of natural sweetness.

• Simple Ingredients: This recipe relies on just a handful of whole food ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store.

Let's Get Blending!

Here's what you'll need to whip up this delicious and nutritious smoothie:

• ¾ cup frozen blueberries

• ½ cup fat-free or low-fat cottage cheese (I used low-fat)

• 1 scoop of protein powder (20 g protein, I used Vanilla) (I used Clean Simple Eats - Use code: PROTEINSNACKQUEEN for 10% off!)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 quick squeeze of lemon juice (1 tsp)

• ½ cup Kefir or ½ cup plant milk (I used unsweetened almond milk)

• 4 ice cubes

Optional Add-Ins:

For an extra flavor boost or a nutritional punch, consider adding any of the following:

• Sweetness Boost: A drizzle of maple syrup, a couple of dates, or a teaspoon of natural peanut butter can add a touch of sweetness without added sugar.

• Extra Protein: A tablespoon of chia seeds or hemp hearts adds a good dose of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

• Added Creaminess: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt can add extra protein and creaminess.

• Greens: A handful of spinach or kale adds a pop of green goodness and extra vitamins and minerals without altering the flavor.

Instructions:

Now that you have your ingredients gathered, it's time to blend! Here's how to create your perfect Blueberry Protein Cheesecake Shake:

1. Add all ingredients (except ice cubes) to your high-speed blender.

2. Blend for 30-45 seconds, or until smooth and creamy.

3. Add ice cubes and blend for an additional 15-20 seconds, until the desired consistency is reached.

4. Enjoy!

Pour your delicious creation into a glass and enjoy! This protein shake is a great way to start your day, refuel after a workout, or curb afternoon cravings with a healthy and satisfying treat.

Recipe Variations and Top Tips:

• Milk Options: Experiment with different milk options such as unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, cashew milk, coconut milk, or soy milk based on your dietary needs and taste preferences.

• Protein Powder: While this recipe uses vanilla protein powder, feel free to experiment with other flavors like strawberry or peanut butter to mix things up.

• Frozen Fruit: Beyond blueberries, try strawberries, raspberries, or mango for different flavor twists.

• Cottage Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer, substitute cottage cheese with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt or silken tofu for a vegan option.

FAQs:

• Can I add a banana to this shake? A: Absolutely! Adding a frozen banana will enhance creaminess and sweetness. Adjust other ingredients accordingly.

• Can I make this shake without protein powder? A: Yes, while protein powder adds a significant boost, cottage cheese and optional seeds can provide protein and fiber.

• How can I add extra nutrients? A: Consider adding spinach, kale, flaxseed meal, or nut butter for additional vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

• Is there a dairy-free option? A: Yes, use plant-based milk and choose a vegan protein powder and cottage cheese alternative.

• How much protein is recommended? A: Aim for 20-30 grams per shake, adjusting ingredients based on your needs.

• How can I reduce sugar? A: Skip added sweeteners, choose unsweetened frozen fruit, and opt for unsweetened plant-based milk.

This High Protein Blueberry Cheesecake Shake showcases the versatility of protein shakes! Whether you seek a creamy banana-free option, want to boost protein intake, or monitor sugar intake, this recipe delivers. With fresh fruits, natural sweetness, and cottage cheese creaminess, each sip offers a guilt-free delight. Incorporate simple ingredients and creativity to tailor delicious and nutritious shakes to your taste and nutrition goals.

To your health and happiness, & protein intake,

x, Ashley