Coconut Protein Shake Recipe with Coconut Butter

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This Coconut Protein Shake is a simple and nutritious way to start your day. With the tropical flavor of coconut and the creamy texture of frozen bananas, it's packed with protein and healthy fats.

coconut protein shake in a milkshake glass with cream and a cherry on top.

Perfect for a post-workout boost or as a quick meal replacement, this shake is both delicious and easy to make. For more delicious protein smoothie recipes, check out our collection of protein shakes and smoothies.

We also have recommendations for the best protein powder for smoothies, the best budget smoothie blender, and tips for creating protein shakes for weight loss. Everything you need for simple, delicious smoothies!

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Coconut Smoothie Ingredients
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Ingredient Substitutions
Recipe Variations
Storage Info
FAQ
Recipe

Coconut Smoothie Ingredients

Just four simple ingredients give us a coconut smoothie that is packed with flavor:

labeled photo of ingredients for this coconut protein shake.

Frozen Banana

Frozen bananas add a creamy texture to the shake and help give it that thick smoothie consistency. They provide natural sweetness without overpowering the flavor of the coconut ingredients. (One of the best ingredients for smoothies!)

Coconut Milk

Opt for the carton container of unsweetened coconut milk to keep the calorie count low. This dairy-free alternative adds a rich and velvety consistency to the shake, adding to its tropical flair.

Protein Powder

Protein powder not only enhances the shake's protein content but also makes it a satisfying and filling breakfast option.

This subtly flavored vanilla whey protein powder is my absolute favorite protein for smoothies. Its flavor does not overpower your other ingredients, unlike many other vanilla protein powders. And this protein powder does not have any added sweetener, so you can choose to sweeten it however and how much you want.

Read more about it here: the best protein powder for smoothies.

Coconut Butter

For an added boost of healthy fats and a more intense coconut flavor, we're including coconut butter (also called coconut manna). It contributes to the shake's creamy texture and can help provide sustained energy throughout the morning.

You can find coconut butter at most grocery stores, or you can easily make it at home by blending unsweetened shredded coconut until smooth.

Equipment Needed

kitchen scale - highly recommended for best results and easy cleanup
high speed blender - this is my favorite smoothie blender. It's budget-friendly and has a great high powered motor. (Read more about why I love this blender here: The Best Smoothie Blender on a Budget.)

Instructions

Add frozen banana to the blender cup, followed by coconut milk, protein powder, and coconut butter.
Blend 30-60 seconds, until smooth and creamy.
Pour the shake into a glass, or enjoy your coconut protein shake right from the blender cup.

Ingredient Substitutions

Coconut Milk: If you're not a fan of coconut milk, you can substitute it with almond milk for a slightly nuttier flavor. Dairy milk works well, too.
Protein Powder: Most protein shake powders have very pronounced flavor, which would compete with the coconut flavor we're adding. This chocolate whey protein would be a good substitute because its flavor is not too in your face.
Coconut Butter: Coconut butter is what gives the coconut flavor here, so I would not substitute something else for it. And keep in mind that coconut oil is NOT the same as coconut butter (it's like the difference between peanut butter and peanut oil).

Recipe Variations

Pina Colada Protein Shake: Add a splash of pineapple juice or a ¼ cup pineapple to give your delicious smoothie a piña colada twist.
Almond Joy Delight: Incorporate some unsweetened coconut flakes and a drizzle of almond butter for an almond joy-inspired variation.
Mango Coconut Bliss: Swap half the banana for frozen or fresh mango chunks for a tropical burst of flavor.

Storage Info

This Coconut Protein Shake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. I love these insulated cups for storing protein shakes in the fridge and for taking them on the go.

FAQ

Can I use almond milk instead of coconut milk?

Yes, almond milk is a suitable alternative that will impart a nuttier flavor to the shake.

How many grams of protein are in this shake?

There are 30 gramps of protein in this tropical protein shake. The full nutritional info can be found in the recipe card below.

Is this recipe suitable for weight loss?

Yes, this shake can be a part of a weight loss plan, especially when used as a meal replacement. If enjoying it as a weight loss snack, you may want have half the recipe, as the calories are high in this shake.

Can I add peanut butter for extra flavor?

Absolutely! A tablespoon of peanut butter can add a delicious twist to this recipe. (In this case, only use 1 tablespoon of coconut butter.)

Is it okay to use frozen fruit instead of just frozen banana?

Certainly, feel free to experiment with a mix of frozen fruits for added variety. Frozen strawberries would be great!

Can I make this shake the night before?

Sure, just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I love these insulated cups for storing protein shakes in the fridge and for taking them on the go.

How can I reduce the fat content in this recipe?

Reduce amount of coconut butter to 1 tablespoon, or omit it to make a coconut milk smoothie.

Can I use this as a meal replacement?

Yes, the combination of protein and healthy fats makes it a satisfying meal replacement option.

Is coconut butter the same as coconut oil?

No, just like peanut butter and peanut oil are different. You can find coconut butter at most grocery stores, or you can easily make it at home by blending unsweetened shredded coconut until smooth.

This Coconut Protein Shake is a delicious way to hit your protein goals and satisfy your hunger. I hope you'll give it a try!

Btw, the toppings shown in these photos are unsweetened shredded coconut that I toasted in the oven, sugar-free whipped cream, and natural maraschino cherries that are insanely delicious!

For more healthy recipe ideas using coconut, check out this coconut frozen yogurt, these coconut avocado popsicles, and these delicious coconut caramel protein balls. YUM!

Recipe