Vegan Peanut Butter Cup Protein Shake

This vegan peanut butter cup protein shake is a little sweet and a touch salty, just like a chocolate peanut butter cup. The recipe is made with nutritional yeast, almond milk, frozen banana, peanut butter, chocolate protein powder and turmeric for a high-protein vegan shake that tastes like dessert. Enjoy it for a vegan breakfast or post-workout snack.

Getting B12 In A Plant-Based Diet

I think it’s essential to either take some form of B12 supplement or make sure you’re eating plenty of B12 fortified foods. Vitamin B12 can be harder to get if you eat plant-based but it’s no problem if you’re conscious of including it in your diet. I supplement with B12 and try to eat lots of B12 fortified foods. Nutritional yeast and store-bought nut milk are two of those foods and this recipe has both of them.

You can read more about B12 and other nutrient considerations in my vegan nutrition guide. If you have more questions about protein in a plant-based diet, check out my post on the best vegan protein sources.

Nutritional Yeast In A Protein Shake?

You might think it’s a little odd to add nutritional yeast to a smoothie but trust me on this one. Nutritional yeast is the key to peanut butter cup protein shake success! Not only does it add the perfect nutty, salty flavor to this smoothie, it adds extra protein and B12.

Nutritional yeast is a staple in my kitchen. I add it to a ton of recipes as well as sprinkle it on popcorn, top salads with it and use it to make dressings and sauces. Nutritional yeast is also known to support a healthy immune system, promote healthy skin, hair and nails, improve digestion and is a complete source of protein.

You can read more about nutritional yeast and how to use it here.

Using Turmeric in Smoothies

Turmeric in a peanut butter cup smoothie? Yes, yes it’s true! Turmeric is high antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory properties, has been linked to brain health, reduces the risk of heart disease along with a number other health benefits.

I use it in this recipe to add some color as well as for it’s nutritional properties. You can’t taste it once it’s blended into the smoothie and while it’s an optional ingredient, I’d definitely recommend sneaking it in there!

For another amazing turmeric drink, you’ve gotta try my turmeric golden milk. It’s delicious and such an easy way to include turmeric in your diet more often.

Peanut Butter Protein Shake Recipe

There are two ways to eat this amazing peanut butter cup shake.

1. Add about 1/2 a cup of almond milk so it’s thick and creamy like peanut butter cup ice cream. Eat it with a spoon.

2. Add about 3/4 to 1 cup of almond milk so it’s creamy and decadent. Drink it with a straw.

I usually make it a bit thinner so there’s more of it, then still eat it with a spoon. I love making my protein shakes into smoothie bowls and digging into them with a spoon. Smoothie bowls are also the perfect vessel for peanut butter cup toppings! Ahem, chopped up vegan chocolate peanut cups. However, If I’m taking it on the road, I’ll add a bit more liquid so it’s drinkable. Both ways are crazy delicious.

Optional Add-Ins

This smoothie is delicious as is but you can always take it up a notch with some of these optional add-ins and variations:

• add 1 tbsp of ground flax or chia seeds for healthy fats and fiber
• add 2 tbsp hemp seeds for healthy fats, vitamin E, protein and antioxidants
• add 1 tbsp cacao powder for extra chocolate flavor and nutrients
• add 1 tbsp cacao nibs for a “chocolate chip” smoothie
• add 1/2 cup steamed then frozen cauliflower or frozen zucchini for extra volume and nutrition

Frozen Banana for Smoothies

Frozen bananas are the key to the creamiest, thickest, most amazing smoothies. I always make sure to have a container of frozen bananas on hand. I buy extra bananas each week so my freezer is always stocked Just make sure you peel them before freezing. Don’t skip the frozen banana in this recipe for best results.

I’m in love with this smoothie! The flavour is seriously so amazing, just like a Reese Peanut Butter Cup! You only need a few simple ingredients to make it. Toss ’em all in a blender, blend until ultra-smooth and creamy. Drink it all up. You won’t regret it. In fact, you’ll be drinking this one on repeat. That’s a promise.

More Vegan Shake Recipes

For more delicious vegan shakes, try one of these:

Beet Orange Smoothie // Vegan Carrot Cake Smoothie // Sweet Potato Smoothie // Chocolate Banana Smoothie // Mixed Berry Smoothie

Vegan Protein Smoothies E-Book

I also have an amazing e-book featuring 66 protein smoothie recipes plus everything you need to know about creating healthy, delicious smoothies. Click here for more information.

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