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.
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
Pina Colada Protein Shake
Ingredients
- 1.25 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks canned or fresh is fine
- ½ banana, frozen and cut into chunks
- 1 scoop protein powder vanilla
Instructions
- Combine coconut milk and pineapple chunks in blender. Blend until smooth.
- Add in the banana and protein powder. Blend until smooth.
- Garnish with cherries, coconut or pineapple if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Hailey says
This was insanely delicious! I used lite Coconut milk and it still was perfectly sweet. Thanks for the recipe-- this might become a summer staple!
Julie Webb says
I made this and added two bananas and flax seeds. It was delicious!!!
Andrew says
I mixed this with my my vanilla protein powder and it tasted really good. I also used a couple drops of coconut extract. The only thing that would make it better is. a shot of rum on top.
Aly says
Tastes just like a pina colada plus it’s healthy! I’ll def make it again!!
Sarah says
This was really really good
Ashlee Welter says
Great!!