Guide to the Best Protein Flavor for Smoothies (2022)
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.
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.
Table of Contents
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:
- Dymatize ISO100 Gourmet Vanilla Protein Powder (20 Servings)
- Scientifically formulated with fast-digesting hydrolyzed whey protein isolate
- 25 grams of protein, which includes 5.5 grams of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), & 2.6 grams of Leucine per serving
- Zero grams of fat and less than 1 gram of sugar per serving.
- Gluten free with less than 1g lactose
- 30g Protein per serving, with all the essential amino acids 100% of protein from Whey.
- Available in three delicious flavors: Chocolate milkshake, vanilla milkshake, and cafe latte. Try it mixed with water or milk, blended into your favorite smoothie recipe, or baked into protein packed recipes
- No Soy ingredients, GLUTEN FREE
- Available in three delicious flavors: Chocolate milkshake, vanilla milkshake, cafe latte. Try it mixed with water or milk, blended into your favorite smoothie recipe, or baked into protein packed recipes.
- You may receive 23.3 but they both carry 17 servings which deliver 30g of protein per serving. Packaging may Vary
- Includes 1 (2.03 pound) orgain organic plant based vanilla bean protein powder
- 21 grams of organic plant based protein (pea, brown rice, chia seeds), 2 grams of organic dietary fiber, low net carbs, 0 grams of added sugar, 150 calories per serving
- USDA organic, vegan, gluten free, dairy free, lactose free, low net carbs, no added sugar, soy free, kosher, non GMO, carrageenan free, and no artificial ingredients
- Mix with water, milk, or your favorite protein shake recipe for a quick breakfast or snack drink. Use when baking to give your cakes, muffins, brownies, or cookies a protein and energy boost
- Ideal for healthy, on the go nutrition for men, women, and kids. These are great for meal replacement, smoothie boosters, muscle recovery, and pre or post workouts
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:
- Each serving contains 30g Protein* with all the essential amino acids, 150 calories, and 1g Sugar, *100% of protein from Whey
- Available in two delicious flavors: Chocolate milkshake, vanilla milkshake, try it mixed with water or milk, blended into your favorite smoothie recipe, or baked into protein packed recipes
- No Soy ingredients, GLUTEN FREE
- 6.6g naturally occurring BCAA's
- You may receive different sized tubs- either 24.5oz or 28oz, but they both carry 17 servings which deliver 30g of protein per serving
- New look and label, same great product! Includes 1 (2.03 Lb) Orgain Organic Plant Based Protein Powder, Creamy Chocolate Fudge
- 21 grams of organic plant based protein (pea, brown rice, chia seeds), 2 grams of organic dietary fiber, low net carbs, 0 grams of added sugar, 150 calories per serving
- USDA organic, vegan, gluten free, dairy free, lactose free, low net carbs, no added sugar, soy free, kosher, Non GMO, carrageenan free, and no artificial ingredients
- Mix with water, milk, or your favorite protein shake recipe for a quick breakfast or snack drink. Use when baking to give your cakes, muffins, brownies, or cookies a protein and energy boost
- Ideal for healthy, on the go nutrition for men, women, and kids. These are great for meal replacement, smoothie boosters, muscle recovery, and pre or post workouts
- YOU WILL RECEIVE: 1.78 lb container of Body Fortress Chocolate Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder
- POWER PACKED PROTEIN: 60 grams of protein and 12 grams of BCAA’s per every two scoop serving - helping you train harder and rebuild lean muscle faster (1)
- PROTEIN WHEN YOU NEED IT: Great for pre and post workout or as needed throughout the day in order to meet daily protein recommendations
- NUTRIENT RICH: Amino acids with no aspartame and no gluten
- IMMUNE SUPPORT: With vitamins C & D plus zinc. Helps support your immune system (1)
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:
- YOU WILL RECEIVE: 1.78 lb container of Body Fortress Strawberry Super Advanced Whey Protein Powder
- POWER PACKED PROTEIN: 60 grams of protein and 12 grams of BCAA’s every two scoop serving - helping you train harder and rebuild lean muscle faster (1)
- PROTEIN WHEN YOU NEED IT: Great for pre and post workout or as needed throughout the day in order to meet daily protein recommendations
- NUTRIENT RICH: Amino acids with no aspartame and no gluten
- IMMUNE SUPPORT: With vitamins C & D plus zinc. Helps support your immune system (1)
- 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
- Includes 1 (2.03 pound) orgain organic plant based strawberries & cream protein powder
- 21 grams of organic plant based protein (pea, brown rice, chia seeds), 5-7 grams of prebiotic plus organic dietary fiber, low net carbs, 0 grams of added sugar, 180 calories per serving
- USDA organic, vegan, gluten free, dairy free, lactose free, low net carbs, no added sugar, soy free, kosher, non GMO, carrageenan free, and no artificial ingredients
- Mix with water, milk, or your favorite protein shake recipe for a quick breakfast or snack drink. Use when baking to give your cakes, muffins, brownies, or cookies a protein and energy boost
- Ideal for healthy, on the go nutrition for men, women, and kids. These are great for meal replacement, smoothie boosters, muscle recovery, and pre or post workouts
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:
- 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 Banana Cream 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
- ✔️ HIGHLY CONCENTRATED PROTEIN WHEY BLEND - Whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate and whey protein hydrolysate. Each serving of 100% Golden Whey is packed with 24 g of top-quality whey protein and 5,2 g of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)
- ✔️ AMAZING NATURAL TASTE OF WHEY POWDER - Low carb protein shake powder has a very natural and mouthwatering taste, with only 3 g of sugar per serving and 11 flavors to choose from, including customer’s favorites and several new ones
- ✔️ ENRICHED BY ENZYME COMPLEX FOR BETTER ABSORPTION - In 100% Golden Whey are used the most advanced and natural sources of protein for fast and improved absorption which make this whey protein blend also a perfect post workout recovery drink for muscle tissue repair
- ✔️ PERFECT MIXABILITY & RICH TEXTURE - Easily digestible low carb protein powder mixes perfectly without clumps and clumps with milk or water. 100% Golden Whey is a perfect choice for healthy home-baked products
- ✔️ MADE IN USA: All of our products are designed and manufactured in compliance with the FDA regulations and IFS & GMP Standards.
- The cap colors on bottles may vary from the product image shown due to a new cap color transition that is currently in process
- 100% WHEY PROTEIN ISOLATE - a high-quality protein source providing 25g per serving to support muscle building and recovery
- ZERO/LOW CARB OPTIONS- helps for those watching their calorie intakes
- A PERFECT FIT - supports your active lifestyle and can be used post-workout, between meals, along with a healthy breakfast, or any time of day
- KETO-FRIENDLY - this protein powder can help support your ketogenic macros
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:
- 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
- Third party tested for label accuracy | No cheap fillers or adulterants
- Celebrate with a smooth and creamy, birthday cake flavored shake
- 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, No Soy Ingredients; 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
- INCREDIBLE FLAVOR: We're celebrating the dairy version of Birthday Cake Batter Cookie Butter. Imagine dipping your spoon into a THICCC funfetti batter - a harmonious combination of rainbow-flecked vanilla cake batter with sprinkles throughout. It's the closest thing to vanilla icing without all the calories. Instead it's high protein, low carb and low fat. You can double dip, we won't judge.
- VERSATILE USE: Take your favorite foods to the next level with Protein Cookie Butter. What comes in the jar as a powder, completely transforms when added to your favorite food! You can mix it into your oats, yogurt, and smoothies or just add water and enjoy it as a spread to create a low-calorie, high protein treat!
- KETO-FRIENDLY: Only 1g of fat, 4g of carbs, and 8g of protein per 2 T serving. Our high-protein and low-calorie Protein Cookie Butter allows you to indulge with zero guilt! *Contains Gluten
- SLAY THAT SWEET TOOTH: Protein Cookie Butter has on point flavor profiles with ideal macros that fit seamlessly into any diet. Each purchase comes with a low-calorie recipe eBook that includes delicious treats to help keep you on track.
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:
- THREE INGREDIENTS OR LESS: 100% Grass Fed Pure Whey Protein with zero additives. Naked Whey no artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors and is GMO-Free, Growth Hormone Free, Soy Free and Gluten-Free.
- ALL NATURAL WHEY: Our Grass Fed Whey is sourced from small dairy farms in California to bring you a non-denatured whey packed full of essential amino acids, clean protein and glutathione.
- MAXIMUM NUTRITION: 25g of Protein and at least 5.9g of BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids) per serving.
- COLD PROCESSED: Unlike most whey protein powders, Naked Whey is cold processed to ensure zero contamination from chemical detergents (no acid or bleach), synthetic additives, or heavy metals, and this maintains important naturally occurring growth factors.
- THE PERFECT WORKOUT PARTNER: Create pre and post workout whey shakes, smoothies and recipes to take your muscle gains and recovery to new heights.
- 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
- Third party tested for label accuracy | No cheap fillers or adulterants
- Premium, Hand-Selected Ingredients: Nourish your body with Truvani organic protein powder; Our selection of premium ingredients is hand-selected to support a clean, healthy & full lifestyle; Enjoy a variety of decadent flavors with vegan ingredients
- Clean Formula, Free of Additives & Fillers: You deserve products that are free of artificial sweeteners, additives & fillers; Truvani plant-based, pea protein powder has no soy, wheat, dairy, gluten, or stevia; We use organic monk fruit for the perfect touch of sweetness
- Certified USDA Organic: Our plant protein powder is certified USDA Organic, as well as being non-GMO, stevia-free & vegan-friendly; With simple ingredients & a straightforward label, you can trust that our protein powder is supporting your health journey
- Delicious & Smooth Protein Shake: Add a scoop to your morning smoothie or post-workout shake for a delicious protein boost. Our organic ingredients provide a rich flavor without a chalky or grainy texture
- Supports Muscle Recovery & Gain: Our dairy-free protein provides your muscles with protein, allowing you to build & maintain healthy, lean muscles; Satisfy your sweet tooth while boosting protein intake & supporting muscle maintenance
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
