Guide to the Best Protein Flavor for Smoothies (2023)
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Looking for the best protein flavor for smoothies? There are many great ones to choose from, and this article looks at the top picks.
Adding protein to your smoothies is a great way to get the nutrients your body needs while enjoying a delicious and refreshing drink. But with so many different protein flavors on the market, which one should you choose?
In this guide, we’ll explore the best protein flavors for smoothies and discuss the benefits of adding protein to your drinks. We’ll also provide a list of the top 5 best protein flavors for smoothies, so you can find the perfect flavor for your needs.
So, whether you’re looking for a new flavor to add to your routine or you’re just starting out with protein-packed smoothies or protein shakes, this guide will help you find the perfect flavor for your needs.
Benefits of Adding Protein to Your Smoothies
Protein is an essential nutrient that helps your body build and repair muscle tissue, as well as other tissues and organs. It’s also necessary for the production of enzymes and hormones, and it plays a role in the absorption of nutrients from food.
Adding protein to your diet can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, as well as improve your muscle mass and strength. Protein can also help you recover from exercise more quickly and may reduce your risk of injuries.
There are many different ways to add protein to your diet, including eating high-protein foods, taking protein supplements, and adding protein powder to your smoothies and shakes. For me, protein powder is one of the best ways to get the extra protein I need.
Protein powder is a convenient and easy way to add protein to your diet, and it comes in a variety of different flavors. Since each person’s tastes are different, I can’t say there is one “best” protein flavor for smoothies.
If you’re looking for the best protein flavor for smoothies, here are the five best options to suit an individual’s palate, as well as some recommendations for the bestsellers from each category.
Best Protein Flavors for Smoothies and Shakes
Vanilla
Vanilla is a classic protein powder flavor that goes well with almost any other flavor. It’s also one of the most versatile flavors, as it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes.
If you’re looking for a protein powder that will mix well with other ingredients and provide a subtle flavor, vanilla is a great option. You can blend vanilla with fruit, chocolate, coffee, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
There are many different vanilla protein powders on the market, so finding one that suits your taste and needs shouldn’t be difficult.
Some of the best selling vanilla protein powders on the market:
- Sweet and smooth, this vanilla flavored protein powder helps pack in the nutrition you rely on every day while delivering indulgent taste like a bowl of creamy vanilla ice cream
- 30g Protein per serving, with all the essential amino acids and 100% of protein from Whey to feed your muscles and curb your hunger
- Guilt free yum: 1g Sugar, 3g Carbs, 150 Calories and Low Fat; No Soy Ingredients, Gluten Free
- Each tub comes with 17 servings and a scoop – just add water for smooth, decadent but easy post-workout recovery
- Mix, Bake, Blend – recreate your favorites smoothie, pancakes, muffins, cookies, donuts, brownies, or protein bars
- Packaging may vary - New look, with the same trusted quality
- Gold standard 100% whey blend – 24 grams blended protein consisting of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides to support lean muscle mass – they don't call it the Gold Standard of quality for nothing
- Over 5 gram of BCAAs – Help build lean and strong muscles with naturally occurring BCAAs
- 3-4 gram carbs, 1-3 gram sugar, and 1-1.5 gram fat, gluten free, no sucralose in double rich chocolate flavor
- Instantized – Improves mixability to prevent lumps and clumps
- NEW LOOK. SAME GREAT TASTING FORMULA: You will receive one 1.74 lb container of Body Fortress 100% Whey, Premium Protein Powder, Vanilla (Packaging may vary. Formula remains unchanged.)
- POWER PACKED PROTEIN SOURCE: Build your fortress with 30g of protein and 6g of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) per scoop. Train harder, recover faster and crush your fitness goals with this powerful, no-nonsense formula. ◊
- IMMUNE SUPPORT: Fortified with vitamins C & D plus zinc, Body Fortress 100% Whey doesn't just fuel your muscles – it supports your daily immunity and strengthens all of you. ◊
- DELICIOUS PROTEIN WHENEVER, WHEREVER: This creamy formula mixes easily into a quick shake or hearty smoothie and is great post-workout or for sustenance throughout the day. ◊
- ADJUSTABLE SERVINGS: For moderate performance goals and to build lean muscle, use one (1) scoop of Body Fortress 100% Whey for daily protein intake. For intense performance goals and big muscle gains, use two (2) scoops of Body Fortress 100% Whey for daily protein intake. ◊
Chocolate
Chocolate is another popular flavor that goes well with a variety of other flavors. It’s rich and creamy, and it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes.
If you’re looking for a protein powder that will mix well with other ingredients and provide a rich flavor, delicious chocolate is a great option. Chocolate pairs well with mint, fruits, nuts, and even savory ingredients like chili peppers.
There are also many different chocolate protein powders on the market, so finding one that suits your taste and needs shouldn’t be difficult.
Some of the best selling chocolate protein powders on the market:
- Chocolate-flavored goodness: Smooth and creamy, rich chocolate flavored shake.
- 30g Protein per serving, with all the essential amino acids and 100% of protein from Whey to feed your muscles and curb your hunger.
- Guilt free yum: 1g Sugar, 3g Carbs, 150 Calories and Low Fat; No Soy Ingredients, Gluten Free
- Each tub comes with 17 servings and a scoop – just add water for smooth, decadent but easy post-workout recovery.
- Mix, Bake, Blend – recreate your favorites smoothie, pancakes, muffins, cookies, donuts, brownies, or protein bars
- Gold Standard 100% Whey - 24g of protein per serving to help build and maintain muscle when taken over time with regular resistance training
- 5.5g of aturally occurring branched chain amino acids (BCAA and 11g of naturally occurring essential amino acids (EAAs) per serving to support muscle recovery
- Anytime formula – great before or after exercise, between meals, with a meal, or any time of day when you need extra protein
- Optimum Nutrition is the World's #1 Sports Nutrition Brand*
- Banned substance tested and the highest quality control measures so you feel comfortable and confident consuming the product
- CLEANER INGREDIENTS: 21g of Organic plant based protein and 0g sugar*. Our protein blend contains Organic peas, brown rice & chia seeds with all 9 essential amino acids. Each serving has low net carbs and features 6g of prebiotic + fiber* for gut support.
- HIGHER STANDARDS: This product is vegan, gluten-free, kosher, made without soy ingredients & Non-GMO. You also won't find any carrageenan, lactose & dairy ingredients, artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
- USDA ORGANIC & CERTIFIED PLANT-BASED: To ensure we are delivering on high-quality products, we use third parties to verify that we are certified USDA Organic and plant based.
- CUSTOMIZE ANY WAY: You can mix this with any liquid like water, almond milk, oat milk, or blend it to create a delicious shake or smoothie. For even more creative ways you can add it to overnight oats and other baked goods for a protein and energy boost.
- PERFECT FOR ANY LIFESTYLE: This protein powder is perfect for men and women alike, whether you're maintaining a healthy lifestyle, working out, looking to add more protein to your diet, following a diet regimen or an on the go meal replacement.
Strawberry
If you’re looking for a fruity protein powder flavor, strawberry is a great option. Strawberry goes well with other fruits, chocolate, and even nuts and spices.
If you’re looking for a protein powder that will add an even fruitier taste to your smoothie or protein shake, try strawberry. You can blend strawberry with banana, mango, pineapple, or even add it to a chocolate or vanilla protein shake.
There are not quite as many different strawberry protein powders on the market, but finding one that suits your taste and needs shouldn’t be difficult.
Some of the best selling strawberry protein powders on the market:
- NEW LOOK. SAME GREAT TASTING FORMULA: You will receive one 1.78 lb container of Body Fortress 100% Whey, Premium Protein Powder, Strawberry (Packaging may vary. Formula remains unchanged.)
- POWER PACKED PROTEIN SOURCE: Build your fortress with 30g of protein and 6g of BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) per scoop. Train harder, recover faster and crush your fitness goals with this powerful, no-nonsense formula. ◊
- IMMUNE SUPPORT: Fortified with vitamins C & D plus zinc, Body Fortress 100% Whey doesn't just fuel your muscles – it supports your daily immunity and strengthens all of you. ◊
- DELICIOUS PROTEIN WHENEVER, WHEREVER: This creamy formula mixes easily into a quick shake or hearty smoothie and is great post-workout or for sustenance throughout the day. ◊
- ADJUSTABLE SERVINGS: For moderate performance goals and to build lean muscle, use one (1) scoop of Body Fortress 100% Whey for daily protein intake. For intense performance goals and big muscle gains, use two (2) scoops of Body Fortress 100% Whey for daily protein intake. ◊
- Packaging may vary - New look, with the same trusted quality
- Gold standard 100% whey blend – 24 grams blended protein consisting of whey protein isolate, whey protein concentrate, and whey peptides to support lean muscle mass – they don't call it the Gold Standard of quality for nothing
- Over 5 grams of BCAAS help build lean and strong muscles with BCAAs. 3-4 grams carbs, 1-3 grams sugar, and 1-1.5 grams fat, gluten free, no sucralose in Delicious Strawberry flavor. Notice: Do not use as a sole source of nutrition
- Any-time formula – Great before or after exercise, between meals, with a meal, or any time of day where you need extra protein in your nutrition
- Most awarded, best-selling whey protein powder on the planet. Banned substance tested – Highest quality control measures so you feel comfortable and safe consuming the product
- CLEANER INGREDIENTS: 21g of Organic plant based protein and 1g sugar. Our protein blend contains Organic peas, brown rice & chia seeds with all 9 essential amino acids. Each serving has low net carbs and features 4g of prebiotic + fiber* for gut support.
- HIGHER STANDARDS: This product is vegan, gluten-free, kosher, made without soy ingredients & Non-GMO. You also won't find any carrageenan, lactose & dairy ingredients, artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
- USDA ORGANIC & CERTIFIED PLANT-BASED: To ensure we are delivering on high-quality products, we use third parties to verify that we are certified USDA Organic and plant based.
- CUSTOMIZE ANY WAY: You can mix this with any liquid like water, almond milk, oat milk, or blend it to create a delicious shake or smoothie. For even more creative ways you can add it to overnight oats and other baked goods for a protein and energy boost.
- PERFECT FOR ANY LIFESTYLE: This protein powder is perfect for men and women alike, whether you're maintaining a healthy lifestyle, working out, looking to add more protein to your diet, following a diet regimen or an on the go meal replacement.
Banana
Banana is another fruity protein powder flavor that goes well with other fruits, chocolate, nuts and vanilla.
If you’re looking for a protein powder that will add a sweet, mild taste to your smoothie, try a banana flavor. It blends well with most other ingredients (think of how many smoothies use bananas!) so you can try it in just about any recipe.
Some of the best selling banana protein powders on the market:
- Gold Standard 100% Whey - 24g of protein per serving to help build and maintain muscle when taken over time with regular resistance training
- 5.5g of naturally occurring branched chain amino acids (BCAA and 11g of naturally occurring essential amino acids (EAAs) per serving to support muscle recovery
- Anytime formula – great before or after exercise, between meals, with a meal, or any time of day when you need extra protein
- Optimum Nutrition is the World's #1 Sports Nutrition Brand*
- Banned substance tested and the highest quality control measures so you feel comfortable and confident consuming the product
- Contains one (1) 1.93 pound cannister (about 12 servings) of Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder. Packaging may vary. Shaker bottle sold separately.
- HELPS SATISFY HUNGER AND BUILD MUSCLE – Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder supplies your body with high quality protein to support post-workout recovery and muscle growth. Or try taking it to-go in a shaker bottle for an energizing on-the-go breakfast.
- KEY FEATURES – Based on 1 serving, Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder contains 32g high-quality protein, 4g sugar, and an excellent source of Calcium and Vitamins A, C & D
- VERSATILE AND EASY-TO-MIX – Muscle Milk Genuine Protein Powder dissolves easily in water; just mix 2 scoops into 8 fluid ounces of water using a shaker bottle. Shaker bottle sold separately. Also add to recipes when you are looking for a protein boost.
- SCIENCE BEHIND PROTEIN – Muscle Milk Genuine provides a combination of high-quality slow releasing and fast releasing proteins to help increase amino acid levels. These essential amino acids play a role in muscle growth and maintenance of muscle mass.
- JOCKO MÖLK: Designed and engineered with a time-release blend of whey concentrate, whey isolate, micellar casein, and egg. This whey isolate protein powder slowly digests in your system and fuels muscle growth and muscle recovery all day long.
- AMINO ACIDS: Blended with a plethora of amino acids, the building blocks of protein, these necessary components help your body with building muscle and regulating immune function. Check out the amino acid profile on the bottle!
- DIGESTIVE ENZYMES & PROBIOTICS: With added digestive enzymes and probiotics to fuel growth and muscle recovery all day long, Mölk’s complex mix of digestive enzymes and probiotics keeps your gut in check and ensures everything moves smoothly.
- NO HORMONES OR SOY: We’ve developed the best protein powder from four different types of protein: whey concentrate, isolate, casein, and egg. Our whey protein powder comes from happy, grass-fed cows and is soy- and hormone-free.
- SUGAR FREE BANANA FLAVOR: Get your protein shake without the unwanted sugar. Mölk is sweetened with monk fruit only. It has no added sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and no added flavors.
Birthday Cake or Cake Batter
Okay, I’ll admit I put this on the list because it’s one of my favorites! But birthday cake or cake batter protein powder can be a great way to add a little sweetness and fun to your protein shakes.
If you’re looking for a protein powder that will give your shake a sweeter flavor, try birthday cake or cake batter. Birthday cake goes well with other sweet flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and fruit.
I even like some of the better cake batter flavored protein powders just blended with some nondairy milk. Yum!
Some of the best selling birthday cake/cake batter protein powders:
- Celebrate with a smooth and creamy, birthday cake flavored shake; Winner of American Masters of Taste Gold Medal for SUPERIOR TASTING ready-to-drink protein beverages.
- 30g of protein to help curb your hunger, as a mid-day snack or for post workout recovery; includes all essential amino acids
- 24 Vitamins and Minerals: Support a healthy immune system as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle (Antioxidants Vitamins C and E plus Zinc), 50 percent daily value of calcium and 30 percent daily value of Vitamin D to help maintain healthy bones
- Guilt free indulgence: 1g Sugar, 4g Carbs, 160 Calories and Low Fat; Gluten Free, Keto and Bariatric Friendly, Kosher
- Try all eleven (11) delicious smooth and creamy flavors: Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel, Cookies & Cream, Cafe Latte, Strawberries & Cream, Peaches & Cream, Bananas & Cream, Cinnamon Roll, Chocolate Peanut Butter and Cake Batter
- Birthday Cake Itholate Protein Powder: RAW Nutrition’s Itholate Protein is a clean, premium protein powder that delivers all the essential amino acids your body needs to support muscle growth and repair. Each serving is packed with 25g of the highest quality protein to make sure you're reaching maximum potential. 25 servings, 2.25 lbs.
- No Nonsense, All Flavor: Personally formulated and flavored by Chris Bumstead so your post workout routine could be as Thavage as possible. Birthday Cake will have you celebrating every workout with a delicious and nutritious treat.
- Benefits of Itholate: RAW Itholate Protein is crafted for supreme quality to help you meet your protein needs, recover from tough workouts and build lean muscle mass. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting your fitness journey, it's the perfect addition to your supplement regimen.
- The New Standard: This hormone-free, micro-filtered isolate protein powder with zero fillers has been crafted for supreme quality to help you meet your protein needs, recover fast and build lean muscle. Made in the USA. No artificial ingredients, no GMOs, no BS.
- Built From the Ground Up: RAW Nutrition was created to provide athletes with the best fuel for peak training and performance. Our mission is to make smart nutrition easy and convenient with expertly crafted supplements made with the purest ingredients available in the industry.
- 24G protein per serving | Low carb | Low fat
- More than just whey - Select Protein combines both casein and whey, which is proven superior to whey only
- Over 5 grams of BCAA per serving with added leucine peptides
- Premium high quality taste and mixability | Available in many gourmet flavors
How to Choose the Right Protein Flavor for You
Now that you know some of the best protein powder flavors on the market, how do you choose the ideal protein powder for you? For me, I like one that blends so easily I can just use a blender bottle if I choose. Of course, if I want to add other ingredients I use a quality blender, but a scoop of protein powder is a great addition to my diet. Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:
What’s Your Goal?
The first thing to consider is what your goal is. Are you looking to build muscle, lose weight, or just improve your overall health? This will help you narrow down your choices and find a protein powder that’s right for you.
If you’re looking to build muscle, you’ll want a protein powder with a high protein content. Look for a powder that has at least 20 grams of protein per serving.
If you’re looking to lose weight, you’ll want a protein powder that’s low in calories and fat. Look for a powder that has around 100 calories per serving and is either low-fat or fat-free.
And if you’re just looking to improve your overall health, any protein powder will do! Just make sure it fits your dietary needs and preferences.
Do You Have Any Allergies or Dietary Restrictions?
Another thing to consider is whether you have any allergies or dietary restrictions. If you’re lactose intolerant, for example, you’ll want to avoid protein powders that contain whey or casein.
There are many dairy-free protein powders on the market, so finding one that fits your needs shouldn’t be difficult.
If you have any other allergies or dietary restrictions, be sure to check the ingredients list of any protein powder you’re considering to make sure it’s safe for you to consume.
If you’re vegan, there are also many vegan-friendly protein powders on the market. My favorite is pea protein.
Also, keep in mind your tolerance for artificial sweeteners. There are a lot of protein powders with some questionable ingredients on the ingredient list, so be sure to check it out before you make your choice.
What’s Your Budget?
Another thing to consider is your budget. Protein powder can range in price from around $10 to $100 or more, depending on the brand, quality, and quantity you buy.
If you’re on a tight budget, there are many affordable protein powders on the market.
If you’re willing to spend a little more, there are also many high-quality protein powders that offer a variety of health benefits.
What’s Your Preferred Flavor?
Last but not least, consider your preferred flavor. As we’ve discussed, there are many different protein powder flavors on the market, so finding one that tempts your taste buds should be easy.
Same thing about knowing what you don’t like. If you hate banana, for instance, you’ll know that one is a big “no” for you. This is probably why coffee flavored powders didn’t make it on this list – I can’t stand coffee so I’m biased. If you love coffee, you can find coffee flavored protein powder.
If you’re unsure of what flavor to choose, try a few different ones until you find one that you like. You can also mix and match flavors to create your own unique protein shake!
There are many more flavors than the ones listed above. Some of my other favorites are:
Brownie Batter
Peanut Butter
Fruity Pebbles
Coconut Cream
Glazed Donut
And there are many more out there. I even found some at my local GNC store that were Girl Scout flavors, and of course you can always go with unflavored protein powder if you’d prefer just the taste of the other ingredients in your smoothie.
What is Your Preferred Protein Source?
Think about if you want an animal based protein powder such as whey protein or even protein powder made from egg whites, or if you would prefer a vegan protein powder. A good option that is widely available is whey protein, and you’ll find the most flavor options with whey, but you may not be able to tolerate cow’s milk or may not want to consume it.
So consider the source when deciding upon the right protein flavor for you.
How to Make Protein Smoothies Even Healthier
When you are looking for the right protein powder, skip the artificial ingredients and added sugar and look for simple ingredients such as whey protein powder from grass-fed cows, or pea, hemp or brown rice protein from organic sources. I also like to look for a powder with digestive enzymes, natural sweeteners, at least 3 grams of fiber, and organic ingredients if possible. I also like to use my smoothies or shakes as a meal replacement, so I look for at least 15 grams of protein per serving.
Other great additions to a protein smoothie are nut butters, greens for a green smoothie, plain Greek yogurt, frozen fruit, flax seed, pumpkin seed or other seeds.
Final thoughts on the best protein flavors for smoothies
Protein powder is a great way to add protein to your diet. It’s also a convenient and easy way to make sure you’re getting enough protein in your diet.
There are many different protein powder flavors on the market, so finding one that you enjoy should be easy. If you’re unsure of what flavor to choose, try a sampler pack that will let you try out different flavors from the same company.
Here are some of the best selling samples or variety packs:
- Premium, Hand-Selected Ingredients: Elevate your health with Truvani plant-protein powder, crafted with premium ingredients to support a clean and vibrant lifestyle. Indulge guilt-free in a variety of decadent flavors, all made with vegan ingredients. Truvani is ideal for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities, promoting digestive wellness.
- Clean Formula, Free of Additives & Fillers: Experience pure nutrition with Truvani plant-based protein powder, free from artificial sweeteners, useless additives, and weird fillers. Our formula excludes soy, wheat, dairy, gluten, and stevia, ensuring a clean and wholesome blend. Enjoy the sweetness of organic monk fruit without added sugars.
- Certified USDA Organic: Trust in the integrity of our plant-based vegan protein powder, certified USDA Organic, non-GMO, and vegan-friendly. Our straightforward label and simple ingredients ensure transparency and quality. Protein sourced from all organic pea, pumpkin seed, and chia seed.
- Truvani's Commitment to Quality: Truvani supports ethical and sustainable dietary choices while meeting strict quality standards. Our protein is also gluten free and keto friendly for a holistic dietary supplement. A protein that can work for an array of diets without sacrificing flavor or quality.
- Delicious Vegan Protein Shake: Elevate your daily routine with a delicious protein boost from Truvani plant protein powder. Our smooth blend delivers rich flavors without a chalky or grainy texture, making every sip enjoyable. Each serving has 120-140 calories to help you hit your fitness goals.
- 24G protein per serving | Low carb | Low fat
- More than just whey - Select Protein combines both casein and whey, which is proven superior to whey only
- Over 5 grams of BCAA per serving with added leucine peptides
- Premium high quality taste and mixability | Available in many gourmet flavors
- CONVENIENT SINGLE-SERVING POUCHES: The APOLLO Protein sample box features 6 individually-packaged protein powder pouches that you can take on-the-go for whatever adventure you tackle next. Tear off the top via easy-tear notches, and your APOLLO protein is ready for pouring. See below for 3 fun ways to use your protein.
- TRY 6 FLAVORS IN ONE: Why commit to just one flavor when you can have six? With our APOLLO Protein Sample box you will try mouth-watering flavors like molten chocolate, birthday cake, banana cream pie, vanilla ice cream, strawberries 'n cream, and so many more! Try all six and find your perfect protein match.
- PERFECT FOR WEIGHT LOSS: The flavors are extraordinary, but what sets APOLLO Protein apart is its compatibility with diet and weightless goals. Because of its smarter formulation and superior macros, APOLLO is an extremely popular choice among dieters. It can help build lean muscle, and will keep you full for hours - making it a fantastic protein powder for weight loss.
- THIRD-PARTY TESTED: Each and every batch of APOLLO Protein is tested for protein concentration at the world-class testing facilities of Silliker Labs, Inc, a division of Mérieux NutriSciences, in Chicago, Illinois. We take pride in making sure that every single serving of our APOLLO protein contains what is reported on our labels, and our third-party protein tests ensure that we deliver on that promise.
- LOW-CALORIE AND NON-BLOATING: Our signature protein blend utilizes a specialized cross-flow filtration to remove excess calories and fat, delivering the most nutrient-dense raw powder possible. Not only does our unique filtration produce a low-calorie protein, but it also reduces the acidity which leads to a smoother flavor, and less bloating. APOLLO includes additional protease enzymes to make sure that it digests easily, every time.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this quick look at some of the best protein flavors for smoothies. Keep trying until you find something you love!
Happy Blending!
Amanda
