Orange Creamsicle Protein Shake
Blend up this Orange Creamsicle Protein Shake for a creamy, dreamy treat bursting with sweet-citrusy flavor. Packed with protein and vitamin C, it’s perfect for breakfast, post-workout, or any time of day nutritious sweet treat!
I’ve been busy creating a collection of protein shakes and smoothie recipes inspired by nostalgic childhood desserts. Think along the lines of a decadent chocolate peanut butter shake, a refreshing peppermint patty shake, a delightful chocolate cherry shake, and today’s fun protein shake flavor –orange creamsicle!
If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting a classic creamsicle bar, picture a creamy vanilla ice cream center wrapped in an orange sherbert coating on a popsicle stick. Now, imagine all that creamy, citrusy goodness in an irresistible blended smoothie. Yes, you heard that right!
For this easy creamsicle protein smoothie recipe, I simply blended orange juice, almond milk, vanilla protein powder, vanilla Greek yogurt, and frozen orange juice to create a nutritious and delicious frozen drink that tastes just like the iconic ice cream bar. You’re going to love it!
Recipe highlights
- Nostalgic flavor. It’s a delicious throwback to your favorite childhood ice cream bar with a healthy twist! Perfect for those hot summer days when you’re craving a cool and creamy healthy dessert.
- High-protein, low-calorie. This shake is designed to keep you feeling full and satisfied, thanks to ingredients like Greek yogurt and protein powder. Light orange juice and unsweetened almond milk keep the sugar and calories low without compromising flavor.
- Quick and easy to make. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, this shake is perfect for busy mornings and post-workout snacks. It’s a breeze to whip up, even on the go.
Ingredients you’ll need
- Light orange juice. Orange juice is a fantastic source of immunity-boosting Vitamin C. I use the 50-calorie per 8oz version to lower the calorie, carb, and sugar content. Feel free to use freshly squeezed orange juice.
- Almond milk. I usually go for unsweetened almond milk. It’s low in calories and adds a subtle nutty flavor. But you can use whatever milk you like, whether dairy milk, oat milk, cashew milk, or coconut milk.
- Vanilla whey protein powder. It adds that creamy, dreamy texture while boosting the protein. If whey isn’t your thing, any vanilla protein powder will do the trick. Try plant-based, pea, or even collagen protein.
- Vanilla Greek yogurt. I swear by Oikos Pro. It’s low-carb, high-protein and adds a luscious, thick consistency. If you’re dairy-free, look for a coconut or almond milk yogurt.
- Frozen orange juice cubes. Remember to freeze additional orange juice in an ice cube tray a day in advance to achieve a frosty, creamy texture without watering down the flavor.
- Orange zest. It’s totally optional but recommended to intensify the orange, tangy flavor.
- Ground flax seed (optional). Want to up the nutrition? Ground flaxseed is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. If you don’t have flaxseed, chia seeds or hemp hearts are great alternatives.
How to make an orange creamsicle protein smoothie
Step 1: Add ingredients to blender. Pour light orange juice and unsweetened almond milk (or your milk of choice) into your blender. Add protein powder, Greek yogurt, frozen orange juice cubes, orange zest, and flaxseed (if using).
Step 2: Blend until smooth. Secure the lid on your blender and blend at high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Adjust consistency and serve. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of almond milk to reach your desired consistency. Pour your smoothie into a glass, grab a straw, and enjoy!
Recipe tips and FAQs
Here are my expert protein shake-making tips to help ensure this orange creamsicle protein shake recipe turns out perfectly every time:
- Freeze juice cubes in advance. Again, don’t forget to freeze your orange juice cubes at least a day ahead for the best taste and texture.
- Use a high-powered blender. A good blender will make a difference in achieving that perfect velvety, smooth texture. Be patient! Blending the ingredients can take 1-2 minutes.
- Opt for fresh orange juice. I love using my juicer to make fresh juice. For citrus fruits, simply peel and process them in the juicer. If you don’t mind the pulp, peel and slice an orange (removing any seeds) and place the slices directly into the blender. One orange yields about 5-6 ounces of juice.
Variations
- Add banana – For a thicker, creamier texture and to add natural sweetness, blend in half a frozen banana.
- Swap the citrus – Try using other citrus fruits like tangerines, mandarins, or even blood oranges when in season.
- Sweeten naturally – Taste your orange creamsicle smoothie and adjust the sweetness with a bit of honey, maple syrup, or stevia if needed. You can also blend in a pitted date for sweetness.
- Add ice cream – Instead of Greek yogurt, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt for a richer, creamier texture similar to a classic milkshake.
No worries! If you don’t have frozen orange juice cubes, you can use regular ice cubes instead, but they may dilute the flavor slightly.
To make this smoothie vegan, use a plant-based vanilla protein powder, a dairy-free yogurt alternative, like almond or coconut yogurt, and your favorite plant-based milk.
Of course! Adding fresh or frozen fruits like mangoes, pineapple, peaches, strawberries, etc., is a great way to add extra flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind that this may alter the classic orange creamsicle flavor.
Storing
Storing: If you’re not planning to drink your orange creamsicle protein smoothie right away, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Freezing: Pour the smoothie mixture into an ice cube tray, place in the freezer, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag once they’re solid. When ready, blend some frozen cubes directly for a thick, slushy smoothie.
More must-make protein shake recipes
- Mocha Protein Shake
- Blueberry Protein Shake
- Chocolate Date Protein Shake
- Nutella Chocolate Hazelnut Protein Shake
- Triple Berry Protein Shake
If you love this creamsicle drink recipe, I would be so grateful if you could leave a 5-star 🌟 rating in the recipe card below. I love reading your comments and feedback!
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Orange Creamsicle Protein Shake
Ingredients
- ½ cup light orange juice I use the 50-calorie per 8oz version
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
- 30 g vanilla whey protein powder or your protein powder of choice
- 5.3 oz vanilla Greek yogurt I use the Oikos Pro (it's low-carb and high-protein)
- ½ cup frozen orange juice cubes freeze the low-calorie juice in an ice cube tray a day in advance
- ½ tsp orange zest
- *optional add-in: 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Freeze juice cubes in advance. Again, don’t forget to freeze your orange juice cubes at least a day ahead for the best taste and texture.
- Use a high-powered blender. A good blender will make a difference in achieving that perfect velvety, smooth texture. Be patient! Blending the ingredients can take 1-2 minutes.
- Opt for fresh orange juice. I love using my juicer to make fresh juice. For citrus fruits, simply peel and process them in the juicer. If you don’t mind the pulp, peel and slice an orange (removing any seeds) and place the slices directly into the blender. One orange yields about 5-6 ounces of juice.
Nutrition
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