ORANGE CREAMSICLE PROTEIN SHAKE

ORANGE CREAMSICLE PROTEIN SHAKE

Cool, creamy, and packed with protein, this shake is basically summer in a glass. Bursting with bright orange flavor and silky vanilla sweetness, it tastes just like the classic creamsicle you loved as a kid, but with a nutritious twist. Perfect as a post-workout refresher, a quick breakfast, or a guilt-free sweet treat anytime.

KEY INFO:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 6 minutes
• Servings: 1
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dietary: Vegetarian (Vegan option available)
• Protein: 17-31g per serving

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

• Blender (or blender bottle for a simpler version)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving glass
• Alternative: Hand blender or mixer

INGREDIENTS:

• 8-12 oz (240-350ml) orange juice, fresh or store-bought
• ½ cup (120g) Greek yogurt [vegan yogurt alternative]
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder [whey or plant-based]
• ½-¾ cup (120-180ml) unsweetened almond milk
• 1 cup frozen orange juice cubes or regular ice
• 1 frozen banana (optional, for extra creaminess)

Optional Boosters:

• 1 tsp orange zest
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp flaxseed

METHOD:

1. Pour orange juice and almond milk into blender first
2. Add Greek yogurt, protein powder, and frozen ingredients
3. Drop in any optional boosters (zest, vanilla, flaxseed)
4. Blend on high for 30-60 seconds until completely smooth
5. Check consistency – it should be thick but drinkable through a straw
6. Adjust if needed: Add milk to thin, or more frozen ingredients to thicken

CRUCIAL TIPS:

• Layer ingredients properly: liquids first, then powders, frozen items last
• Use chilled ingredients for best results
• Don’t over-blend – stop when smooth to prevent warming

STORAGE & SCALING:

• Best consumed immediately
• Can store in fridge up to 24 hours (will separate, re-blend before drinking)
• For meal prep: Freeze in ice cube trays
• Recipe doubles easily for multiple servings

COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID:

• Using warm ingredients (results in watery shake)
• Adding too much sweetener (protein powder often contains sweeteners)
• Insufficient blending (leads to powder chunks)

VARIATIONS:

• Tropical: Add frozen mango or pineapple
• Mocha Twist: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• Extra Protein: Add 1 tbsp nut butter
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based yogurt and protein powder

This shake delivers the nostalgic taste of an orange creamsicle while packing a serious protein punch. It’s perfect for post-workout recovery or as a nutritious breakfast on the go.