This cool, frothy piña colada protein shake, inspired by piña colada julius, is an easy and delicious way to up your protein intake.

A few months ago I started using an app to track my calories, because I’m hoping to lose a few pounds before some trips that I have coming up. I was shocked to see how little protein I was consuming, and started making more of an effort to incorporate more of it into my meals and snacks.

Since I rarely take the time to make a real breakfast (you either? here are some make ahead breakfast recipes) I turned to shakes and bars for a quick, grab-and-go option on my most rushed mornings. After trying a bunch of options, I found a few that I really like – especially Rx and Oatmega bars.

How to make a piña colada protein shake

Shawn had a piña colada julius the other day, and as soon as I took a sip I knew I needed to turn it into a protein shake. This easy piña colada protein shake quickly became one of my go-to breakfasts, but it’s also great as a post-workout snack. It’s light, frothy, and cool with a bright sunny flavor. For a more substantial shake with a thicker, milkshake-like texture, you can also blend in half a frozen banana. Or, if you like things green, throw in a cup of baby spinach. Whatever you do, don’t skip the coconut extract – it’s key to getting that classic piña colada flavor.

The nutrition information will vary depending on your protein powder; I use 365 whey protein and my shakes have 17 grams of protein. It’s probably not the best protein powder on the market – there are others with more protein and less sugar – but it’s affordable (about $14 per carton at Whole Foods) and I love how smooth it is. Other powders I’ve tried seemed gritty and I wasn’t a fan at all.

(My other quick go-to shake recipe? 6 ounces of cold brew coffee, 2 ounces of coconut milk, and 1 scoop of powder, shaken well. It takes about 30 seconds to make and tastes like a really good coffee shake!)

Piña Colada Protein Shakes

Yield: 1

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Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
• 1/2 frozen banana (optional)
• 6 ounces unsweetened coconut milk
• 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

Instructions

Add all of the ingredients to the blender.

Cover and blend on high until smooth and frosty, 10-15 seconds.

Pour into a glass and drink immediately.

Nutrition Information

Amount Per Serving Calories 435 Total Fat 37g Saturated Fat 32g Cholesterol 0mg Sodium 24mg Fiber 2g Sugar 17g Protein 4g