Creamy Banana and Date Protein Shake Recipe

Enjoy a nourishing Banana Protein Shake after your workout. This simple, creamy recipe blends banana, dates, peanut butter and protein powder for a delicious, vegan-friendly recovery drink.

If you resolved to step up your fitness routine, a well-balanced post-workout shake can make recovery easier and tastier. This banana protein shake delivers a satisfying combination of carbohydrates and protein to help replenish energy and support muscle repair. It’s creamy like a milkshake but made with plant-based ingredients, so it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free when you choose a gluten-free protein powder.

This recipe provides about 38 grams of protein per serving when made with a typical vegan protein powder, making it an excellent option for anyone who needs extra protein after exercise. The flavor profile is sweet and nutty thanks to the dates and peanut butter, while coconut and almond milk add richness without dairy.

How do you make a banana protein shake?

To make the shake, add chopped dates, a sliced banana, peanut butter, coconut milk, almond milk, protein powder and ground flax seed to a blender with ice. Blend for 1–2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Pour into a chilled glass and enjoy immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Are bananas good in protein shakes?

Yes. Bananas bring natural sweetness, a creamy texture, and potassium to a shake, which can help replenish electrolytes after exercise. They pair well with almost any protein powder and with flavors like peanut butter, cocoa, and coconut. If you prefer a thicker, colder drink, use frozen banana slices or frozen banana chunks.

Are protein shakes gluten free?

The shake itself is gluten free when all ingredients are gluten free. Always check the label on any protein powder you use to confirm it is certified gluten free if you have an intolerance or celiac disease.

Can vegans drink protein shakes?

Absolutely. When you use a plant-based protein powder and dairy-free milk alternatives, protein shakes are perfectly suitable for vegans. This banana protein shake uses coconut milk, almond milk, and vegan protein powder, so it fits well into a vegan diet.

What’s in vegan protein powder?

Vegan protein powders typically derive their protein from plants such as pea, rice, hemp, soy, sunflower, or pumpkin seed. Many blends combine multiple plant proteins to provide a more balanced amino acid profile. Some powders also include added vitamins, minerals, or vegetable powders for extra nutrition.

Choosing a vegan protein powder

When selecting a vegan protein powder, look for a product with a complete or complementary amino acid profile, minimal added sugars, and transparent ingredient sourcing. If you have dietary restrictions like gluten sensitivity, choose a powder that is labeled gluten free. Flavor preference is also important—vanilla and chocolate are versatile, while flavored options can influence the final taste of your shake.

More smoothie recipes

If you enjoy this banana protein shake, try other nutritious smoothie ideas: Blueberry Avocado Skin Boosting Smoothie, Energy Boosting Banana Berry Smoothie, Avocado Smoothie Bowls, Acai Blackberry Smoothies, Immunity Boosting Orange Berry Smoothie, and Heart Healthy Fruit Smoothie. These combinations offer a variety of flavors and nutrients to fit different tastes and goals.

Banana Protein Shake — Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 dates, chopped
• 1 banana, peeled and sliced (fresh or frozen)
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 3 tbsp vegan protein powder (or protein powder of your choice)
• 2 tbsp ground flax seed
• Ice, to taste

Instructions

1. Add the dates, banana, peanut butter, coconut milk, almond milk, protein powder, ground flax seed and ice to a blender.
2. Blend for 1–2 minutes, or until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness by adding more milk for a thinner shake or more ice/banana for a thicker texture.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of ground flax or a few sliced bananas.

Tips, Variations, and Storage

• To make this shake thicker and colder, use frozen banana slices. Add the liquid slowly so you reach your desired consistency.
• Substitute almond or cashew butter for peanut butter if you prefer a different nut flavor or have a peanut allergy.
• Swap coconut milk for oat milk or soy milk if you want lower saturated fat or a milder flavor.
• Add a handful of spinach or a scoop of greens powder for extra vitamins without changing the taste much.
• Store any leftover shake covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but note the texture will change and separation may occur—stir or re-blend before drinking.

Nutrition Facts

The approximate nutrition per serving (one shake) provided with this recipe includes:

• Calories: 964 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 65 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Fat: 68 g
• Saturated Fat: 29 g
• Sodium: 676 mg
• Potassium: 1394 mg
• Fiber: 14 g
• Sugar: 34 g
• Vitamin A: 75 mg
• Vitamin C: 11.4 mg
• Calcium: 262 mg
• Iron: 10.4 mg