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What are the best protein powders to use for milkshakes?

Quick answer

There is no single best protein powder for milkshakes. Milk proteins (whey and casein) and plant proteins (soy, pea) are all sold as powders; choose by taste, how well it mixes, added sugar and your diet, and blend with milk, ice and frozen banana. Protein powders are not regulated for safety by the FDA, so read labels, check allergens and ask a doctor if you have kidney disease.

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In this article
  1. Which protein powder is best for milkshakes?
  2. What to check on the label
  3. How to make a protein shake taste like a milkshake
  4. Is a milkshake protein?
  5. Who should be careful?

Which protein powder is best for milkshakes?

It depends on your diet and taste. Powdered protein can come from milk (casein, whey), eggs, or plants such as soybeans, peas and hemp. The table gives general notes only; texture varies by brand.

Type Source In a milkshake
Whey Milk Dissolves easily in cold milk; contains milk, so not for milk allergy
Casein Milk Often described as thicker; also a milk product
Pea Plant Dairy-free; taste varies by brand
Soy Plant Dairy-free; not for soy allergy
Plant blends Peas, rice, seeds and others Vary widely; check the label

Vanilla and chocolate are the easiest flavors for milkshakes.

What to check on the label

  • Added sugar and sweeteners: products can contain added sugars and other non-protein ingredients, and amounts vary by brand.
  • Protein per scoop and scoop size.
  • Allergens: whey and casein come from milk; some products contain soy.
  • Third-party testing: NSF Certified for Sport is an independent program that tests supplements for banned substances, which matters most to athletes. It does not make a product suitable for everyone.

How to make a protein shake taste like a milkshake

  1. Blend 1 scoop vanilla or chocolate powder with about 1 cup cold milk or plant milk.
  2. Add a frozen banana or a scoop of ice cream for thickness and sweetness.
  3. Add ice and blend until smooth.
  4. Optional: cocoa, peanut butter, or a splash of vanilla extract.

Putting the liquid in first, then the powder, helps avoid clumps. Follow the mixing directions on your product.

Is a milkshake protein?

A regular milkshake has some protein from the milk or ice cream, but also a lot of sugar. A protein milkshake adds extra protein from powder.

Who should be careful?

Protein powders are not regulated by the FDA for safety. People with a milk or soy allergy should avoid matching products. People with kidney disease need to monitor protein intake according to their physician’s guidelines. If you are pregnant or take medication, ask a doctor or dietitian. Many healthy adults in developed countries already get enough protein from food, so powder is optional.

People also ask

What protein powder is best for milkshakes?

There is no single best one. Whey and casein are milk-based; pea and soy suit dairy-free diets. Pick one you like that has little added sugar.

How do I make a protein shake taste like a milkshake?

Use vanilla or chocolate powder, cold milk, a frozen banana or ice cream, and ice, then blend until smooth.

Can I use whey protein in a milkshake?

Yes, if you are not allergic to milk. Mix it with cold milk, putting the liquid in first to reduce clumps.

General information only, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or are pregnant, ask your doctor before changing what you drink.

Sources

    Written by Drinks Type Editorial Team · Published Apr 19, 2025 · Updated Nov 5, 2026
    About · How we verify this · Editorial policy · Corrections

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