Carrot Cake Protein Smoothie: A Healthy 5-Minute Breakfast Shake

KEY INFO

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: None
• Total time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 1-2
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dietary: Adaptable for vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• High-speed blender (or regular blender)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

INGREDIENTS

Base

• 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 medium carrot (100g), roughly chopped
• 1 frozen banana
• 1 scoop (30g) vanilla protein powder OR ¼ cup Greek yogurt

Spices & Flavoring

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 Medjool date (optional for sweetness)

Optional Boosters

• 1 Tbsp flaxseed
• 1 Tbsp almond butter
• ½ Tbsp shredded coconut
• 4-5 ice cubes

METHOD

1. Add milk to blender first to help blades move freely
2. Add chopped carrot, frozen banana, and protein powder/yogurt
3. Add all spices, vanilla, and date (if using)
4. Add any optional boosters
5. Blend on high for 60-90 seconds until completely smooth
6. Check consistency – should be thick but pourable. Add more milk if too thick

CRUCIAL TIPS

• Use frozen banana for thickness without ice
• Chop carrots small for smoother blending
• Layer ingredients with liquids first
• Don’t overblend – stop when smooth

STORAGE & VARIATIONS

Storage

• Best consumed immediately
• Can keep refrigerated up to 24 hours
• Shake well before drinking if stored

Common Mistakes

• Using room temp ingredients (results in thin smoothie)
• Not chopping carrots small enough
• Adding too much liquid at once

Variations

• Vegan: Use plant milk and protein
• Extra protein: Add cottage cheese
• Lower sugar: Skip banana, use cauliflower
• More fiber: Add oats or chia seeds

Nutritional values vary based on ingredients chosen. Basic recipe approximately 250-350 calories with 20-25g protein.