Pina Colada Protein Shake

This Pina Colada protein shake is the perfect balance of pineapple and coconut. It takes less than 5 minutes to make and packs in a whopping 27 grams of protein per serving. This delicious drink is the perfect breakfast or snack option!

I love finding creative ways to add protein to my diet. Summer is finally here and this delicious pina colada protein smoothie is the perfect way to turn a protein shake into a creamy and smooth tropical treat!

If you need other high-protein options, this protein coffee shake and protein overnight oats are both a treat!

And, if you're looking for more smoothies, be sure to check this Blueberry Acai Protein Smoothie and Blueberry Mango Smoothie Bowl.

Jump to:

• Ingredients You Will Need
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Blending Tips
• Variations
• Protein Alternatives
• Leftovers
• Expert Tips
• Nutrition Information
• More High Protein Recipes
• Pina Colada Protein Shake

Ingredients You Will Need

Coconut Milk: I used the "Silk" Brand of coconut milk. It comes in a 64 oz carton and can be purchased at most local retailers- Target, Walmart, or the grocery store. It's found in the refrigerated section of the store. Use unsweetened coconut milk for a low-sugar option.

Cubed Pineapple: Either fresh or canned pineapple will work. I used canned pineapple because it was an easy option. Drain the juice if using canned pineapple. Freeze the pineapple overnight to help give the smoothie a frozen texture.

Banana: Freeze the banana overnight prior to making the smoothie. A ripe banana is recommended because it adds sweetness to the smoothie.

Protein Powder: Any brand or type of protein powder can be used. This works best with a vanilla flavor protein powder. I prefer a whey protein because it blends easily and doesn't leave a 'gritty' texture. This is my favorite brand of protein.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine your milk and pineapple in the blender. Blend until smooth

Add the banana and protein powder. Blend again until smooth!

Garnish if desired & enjoy!

Blending Tips

The key to a perfect smoothie is good consistency- a balance between frozen but still "drinkable". The order that the ingredients are added to the blender is important to help with this.

Place the Coconut milk closest to the blender blade so that the frozen fruit does not get stuck. If you have a blender that flips over once ingredients are added (such as a Magic Bullet blender), pour the coconut milk in last. If you have a standing blender that has a blade on the bottom, pour the coconut milk in first.

Let fruit rest at room temp for 10 minutes prior to making the smoothie (it should still be frozen, though!). This may help make it easier to blend the smoothie.

If all else fails and the smoothie is too thick to blend, add a couple of extra tablespoons of coconut milk in and try again.

Variations

Coconut Milk: use unsweetened coconut milk for a low-sugar option.

Extra coconut flavoring: add ½ teaspoon of coconut extract

Toppings: top with coconut flakes, maraschino cherries, whipped cream or walnuts

Protein Alternatives

Protein powder isn't the only source of protein that can be used in this shake! I used it originally because it's easy to add and takes on the flavor of pineapple and coconut. Here are some other options for protein sources:

• Add ¼ cup of vanilla, nonfat Greek yogurt
• Add ¼ cup of coconut-flavored Greek Yogurt
• Add ¼ cup low fat cottage cheese (the chunks will blend to smooth when added to the smoothie)

Leftovers

This smoothie makes 1 serving of smoothie. It is recommended to consume this smoothie shortly after preparation, in order to keep the frozen consistency of the smoothie.

Wondering what to do with your leftover pineapple and coconut milk? Portion the ingredients into zip lock bags and freeze, so that you can make individual smoothies as desired. Freeze the coconut milk in ice cube trays first, and then place the frozen cubes of coconut milk into your meal prep bags when frozen.

Expert Tips

• Serve right away! This is best served right after blending to help maintain the frozen texture.
• Add some extra nutrition: add a handful of spinach or kale for extra vitamins and nutrients.
• If the smoothie is too thick, add extra coconut milk. Start with 2 tablespoons, blend, and then add more as needed.

Nutrition Information

This smoothie recipe makes 1 serving. There are 340 calories and 27 grams of protein per serving. The protein content will vary based on the brand and type of protein powder used. The fat content is 6.6 grams and there are 45 grams of carbs.

This smoothie contains protein, fat and carbs. Add some extra spinach for a serving of veggies. Or, pair it with a slice of avocado honey toast!

More High Protein Recipes