This quick Fairlife Protein Shake Recipe blends chocolate protein, cold brew, and banana into a creamy, energizing breakfast or post-workout drink. It’s built for busy mornings and active lifestyles, delivering a high-protein, low-sugar boost with minimal fuss.
Recipe card — Single serving
Yield: 1 serving
Prep time: 3–5 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes (blending)
Total time: 3–5 minutes
Calories (approx): 300–350 kcal
Protein (approx): ~35 g
Ingredients
- 1 bottle (11.5 fl oz) Fairlife Nutrition Plan Chocolate (30 g protein, low sugar)
- ½–¾ cup unsweetened cold brew coffee, chilled (adjust for caffeine strength)
- 1 large banana, sliced and ideally frozen for thicker texture
- Optional: 1–2 ice cubes to thicken if banana is not frozen
- Optional: pinch of ground cinnamon or a few cocoa nibs for garnish
Method
- Add the chilled cold brew coffee to your blender first.
- Toss in the sliced banana next so it blends evenly.
- Pour the entire bottle of Fairlife chocolate protein over the fruits.
- Blend on high for 30–60 seconds until smooth and frothy.
- Adjust texture with an extra splash of cold brew if thin, or a couple of ice cubes if too thick.
- Pour immediately into a glass and enjoy.
Why this Fairlife Protein Shake Recipe works so well
The trio of milk-based protein, caffeine, and banana gives a fast, balanced energy hit. Protein sustains fullness, cold brew supplies caffeine without sugary mixers, and banana provides natural sweetness plus potassium.
Using a ready-made high-protein shake eliminates measuring powders and sticky scoops. This makes the recipe reliable, consistent in protein, and ideal for on-the-go routines.
Frozen banana acts as a natural thickener and adds a creamy, almost ice-cream-like mouthfeel. This keeps the texture indulgent without added fats or heavy creams.
Ingredient breakdown and smart swaps
Fairlife Nutrition Plan Chocolate is the anchor for protein and chocolate flavor. If you want a different flavor profile, choose a compatible single-serve protein drink that matches protein and sugar goals.
Cold brew provides concentrated coffee flavor with less acidity than regular coffee. If you prefer decaf, swap in decaf cold brew to retain the taste without caffeine.
A frozen banana is ideal, but ripe fresh banana will work if you add ice. For lower-carb options, replace banana with 2–3 tablespoons of avocado and a natural sweetener if needed.
Technique tips for silky blending every time
Always add liquids to the blender first to create a vortex that pulls solids into the blades. This reduces air pockets and prevents lumps for a smoother shake.
Pulse once or twice to break up large frozen chunks before switching to continuous high speed. This short trick keeps noisy blending to a minimum and gives a consistent texture.
If your blender struggles with frozen fruit, let slices sit for 2–3 minutes at room temperature or use ¼ cup extra cold brew. This softens the fruit and protects your blender motor.
Texture and flavor troubleshooting
If the shake is too thin, add a few ice cubes or an extra half banana to thicken without diluting flavor. Another option is a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for creaminess and extra protein.
If the shake is too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of cold brew or unsweetened almond milk and blend briefly. This keeps the consistency spoonable without losing the chocolate-coffee balance.
Taste too bitter? A tiny dash of natural sweetener or a medjool date will round the edges. Taste overwhelmed by sweetness? Use less banana next time or a smaller bottle portion.
When to drink and how to pair it
This shake is perfect for breakfast on the go, a pre-workout pick-me-up, or a quick post-workout recovery option. Its protein and carbs combination supports morning energy and muscle repair.
Pair with a small handful of nuts for extra healthy fats and longer satiety. It also works well alongside a whole-grain toast or a fiber-rich cereal if you want a more substantial meal.
If using as a post-workout recovery drink, consume within 30–60 minutes of training to maximize muscle repair. For weight-loss goals, use this shake to replace a higher-calorie breakfast but watch total daily calories.
Variations to keep it interesting
For a mocha spin, add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso or a dusting of unsweetened cocoa powder. This enhances bitterness and deepens chocolate notes.
For a tropical twist, swap cold brew for cold-brewed tea and add a few frozen mango pieces. This changes the flavor while keeping the protein base intact.
For a thicker, bowl-like treat, double the banana and blend until spoonable. Top with sliced almonds, chia seeds, or a sprinkle of granola for crunch.
Nutrition snapshot and macro guidance
A typical serving will land around 300–350 calories with approximately 35 g protein, depending on banana size and cold brew amount. This makes it an efficient breakfast for protein-focused diets.
The shake is low in added sugar when using unsweetened cold brew and the Fairlife chocolate option. The carbohydrates are mostly from the banana, offering natural sugar and potassium.
If tracking macros, note that adding yogurt, nut butter, or extra banana will change totals quickly. Measure additions if you’re sticking to strict macro goals.
Make-ahead, storage, and portability
Blended shakes are best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture and flavor. Separation can occur if stored, causing a watery layer on top.
If you must prepare ahead, store unblended ingredients (sliced frozen banana + protein bottle) in a travel container and blend at your destination. This preserves texture and freshness.
For portability, use an insulated bottle and keep ice packs in your bag to maintain chill if you won’t drink it immediately. Avoid long durations at warm temperatures.
FAQ — Fairlife Protein Shake Recipe
Q: Can I use regular brewed coffee instead of cold brew?
Yes, but cool it completely first to avoid heating the protein and meliorating texture.
Q: What if I don’t have a blender?
Use a jar with a tight lid and a small whisk or milk frother; expect a less smooth result.
Q: Can I reduce calories further?
Use a smaller banana or half a banana and add ice to keep volume without calories.
Q: Is this suitable as a meal replacement?
It can be a meal replacement for many, but pair with fiber or healthy fat when you need longer satiety.
Q: Can I add extra protein powder?
Yes, but adjust liquids to keep desired consistency and watch total protein if you follow limits.
Q: How do I make it vegan?
Swap the Fairlife product for a high-protein, plant-based single-serve alternative with similar macros.
Q: Will the coffee curdle the dairy protein?
Using chilled coffee prevents curdling. Avoid adding hot liquids directly to the protein shake.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers into popsicles?
Yes, blend, pour into molds, and freeze for a protein-rich popsicle treat.
This Fairlife Protein Shake Recipe is intentionally simple yet flexible to fit into busy routines and varied taste preferences. Use the technique tips and variations to make it your own while keeping the foundation that delivers quick protein, satisfying texture, and real flavor.
Fairlife Protein Shake Recipe with Chocolate, Cold Brew & Banana
Ingredients
Smoothie Ingredients
- 1 bottle Fairlife Nutrition Plan Chocolate Protein Shake 11.5 fl oz, chilled
- 0.5–0.75 cup cold brew coffee unsweetened, chilled
- 1 large banana sliced and frozen for thicker texture
- 1–2 pieces ice cubes optional
Instructions
Blending Instructions
- Pour the chilled cold brew coffee into a blender to create a smooth liquid base.
- Add the frozen banana slices on top of the liquid to help the blades blend evenly.
- Pour the entire bottle of chocolate protein shake into the blender.
- Blend on high speed for 30–60 seconds until smooth and frothy.
- Adjust thickness with additional cold brew or ice cubes as needed.
- Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using a frozen banana creates a naturally thick and creamy texture without added ingredients.
- Always use chilled coffee to prevent separation and maintain smooth consistency.
- This shake is best consumed immediately and not recommended for long storage.
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