It’s so easy to make this homemade protein powder recipe to make smoothies and flavored milks more filling. And it only takes about 2 minutes and costs so much less than buying protein powder at the store.
Protein Powder Recipe
I have spent way too much money in my adult life on protein powders that wind up having flavors I don’t even like—and often more vitamins and ingredients than I’m looking for. And since most kids get plenty of protein without us needing to add more, I’ve found that this homemade protein powder is an excellent way to make a smoothie be a little more filling, without going overboard.
The method and ingredients for making this are super simple and accessible. You can make adjustments for allergies as needed and the powder stores in the fridge or freezer for months.
I add two spoonfuls to smoothies (or more if I’m making a big batch to share with the kids) and it blends right in, no funny flavors or textures added.
Ingredients You Need
To make this homemade protein powder, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Dry milk powder: You can use any brand you like. To make this dairy-free, you can try instant coconut milk powder.
- Hemp seeds: These add fiber, protein, and healthy fats without changing the taste or texture of the smoothie or milk.
- Almonds: You can use whole or sliced almonds here. I would use unsalted and opt for sliced almonds if your blender isn’t super powerful.
- Rolled oats: These help thicken the smoothie like purchased protein powders do.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making your own protein powder is super simple. Here’s a look at the process. Scroll down to the end of the post for the full recipe.
- Add the ingredients to a blender.
- Blend very smooth, using the stick that came with the blender if needed.
- Transfer to an airtight storage container and store in the fridge until ready to use. I add 2 spoonfuls to each smoothie.
Frequently Asked Questions
This homemade protein powder works well added into any smoothie recipe you like. You can also use it in flavored milks.
You can add some to pancake mix, oatmeal, or a muffin recipe if you’d like. Or you can add it to milk.
Most kids get plenty of protein without us trying very hard, so this protein powder can help make a smoothie more filling (without making it taste like peanut butter). This, in the mix with other normal foods, will likely provide plenty of protein for kids. You can read more about protein for kids (and recommended store bought kids protein powders).
Smoothie Recipes to Try
In addition to my Protein Shakes, these are some of my favorite smoothie recipes to add this protein powder to.
You can use fresh or frozen berries in this simple Strawberry Smoothie and the results will have a texture that is similar to drinkable yogurt. To make it thicker and to try different flavor options, see the Notes at the end of the recipe.
This fresh Mango Smoothie is thin enough to drink through a straw and thick enough to eat with a spoon. And of course, it’s super creamy!
Frozen bananas give the smoothie a creamy, naturally sweet base, though you can make this with a fresh banana as long as the other fruit is frozen. It’s easy to add whatever berries or fruit you have on hand, so customize it for your kiddo.
Frozen banana will create a slightly thicker smoothie, so if you plan to serve this through a straw, I recommend doing either frozen blueberries OR bananas, but not both. You can do all frozen fruit if you plan to serve it through a pouch or in an open cup—or if your child is used to drinking thick smoothies!
Using frozen watermelon ensures a cold and creamy smoothie that blends easily in the blender. Plan to freeze the watermelon at least 6 hours before you want to make the smoothie.
Try this naturally sweet smoothie filled with cherries, banana, and creamy yogurt. Add the nut butter if desired for extra protein and flavor.
How to Store
Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 6 months or in the freezer for up to 1 year.
Best Tips for Success
- To use, add 2 tablespoons to each smoothie.
- Dairy-free: Look for vegan powdered milk (which is often made from coconut milk) as an option.
- Nut-free: Skip the almonds. You can double the hemp seeds if you’d like.
- Chocolate Protein Powder: Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the mix. You will want to add 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup to the smoothie (or very sweet fruit) to balance the flavors.
- Peanut Butter Protein Powder: Add ½ cup powdered peanut butter, such as PB Fit, to the mix.
Related Recipes
I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe, so please comment and rate the recipe below!
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Add all ingredients to a blender.
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Blend well to grind the ingredients into a smooth powder.
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Transfer to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 1 month or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
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To use, add 2 tablespoons to each smoothie.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 months.
- Add 4 tablespoons to a standard smoothie recipe to increase the protein amount.
- Dairy-free: Look for vegan powdered milk (which is often made from coconut milk) as an option.
- Nut-free: Skip the almonds. You can double the hemp seeds if you’d like.
- Chocolate Protein Powder: Add 2-3 tablespoons cup cocoa powder to the mix. You will want to add 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup to the smoothie (or very sweet fruit) to balance the flavors.
- Peanut Butter Protein Powder: Add ½ cup powdered peanut butter, such as PB Fit, to the mix.
- To use, add 1-2 tablespoons to a kids smoothie, Protein Shake, or Flavored Milk.
Serving: 2tablespoons, Calories: 99kcal, Carbohydrates: 9g, Protein: 7g, Fat: 4g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 3mg, Sodium: 69mg, Potassium: 256mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 7g, Vitamin A: 305IU, Vitamin C: 1mg, Calcium: 177mg, Iron: 1mg
