Every December, I get this sudden urge to drink something cold, chocolatey, minty, and protein-packed… even when it’s freezing outside.
It’s like my brain says, “holiday milkshake, but make it healthy-ish,” and honestly, this Christmas Protein Shake hits that craving perfectly.
It tastes like a peppermint hot chocolate frappé you’d get from a fancy café, but you can whip it up in literally five minutes in your kitchen.
I’ve been making this after workouts, and honestly, whenever I want something sweet but still want to feel like I made a nice choice.
It’s creamy, festive, and feels like you’re sipping Christmas in a glass.
I’m adding variations and substitutes at the bottom of the recipe.
Tips to Make It Even More Delicious
- • Use crushed candy canes for sweetness instead of extra sugar.
- • Add 1 tbsp chocolate syrup inside the glass to make it look café-style.
- • Use cold milk for an extra frosty texture.
- • For more protein, add 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or 1 tbsp peanut butter.
- • My favorite chocolate protein powder
- • A great peppermint extract that tastes strong but clean
- • The blender I use for every shake
Christmas Protein Shake
Course: BreakfastDifficulty: Easy1
servings5
minutesIngredients
• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
• 1 cup milk (any kind you like)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional but makes it creamy)
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract (or crushed candy cane)
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or 2 dates (optional)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1 cup ice cubes
• Whipped cream for topping
• Crushed candy canes and cocoa powder for garnish
Directions
- Step 1: Add the milk, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, peppermint extract, cinnamon, Greek yogurt, and ice cubes to a blender. Blend on high until everything is smooth, cold, thick, and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk; if it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes.
- Step 2: Pour the shake into a tall glass and top it with whipped cream. Sprinkle some crushed candy cane and a dusting of cocoa powder on top. Serve with a red-and-white straw or a candy cane hooked on the rim to get that full Christmas-movie moment.
Notes
- This is one of my favorite protein shakes during Christmas
Variations and Substitutes
- Swap chocolate protein powder for vanilla to make a “White Christmas Shake.”
- Replace peppermint extract with 1 tsp instant coffee for a mocha vibe.
- Add a frozen banana for thickness if you prefer smoothie-style shakes.
- Use almond milk, oat milk, or lactose-free milk depending on your needs.
- Skip the Greek yogurt for a lighter shake.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a more warm, cozy Christmas flavor.
Conclusion
This Christmas Protein Shake is the kind of recipe that makes your day feel instantly festive, even if you’re running around doing a hundred things.
It’s delicious, high in protein, and honestly feels like a treat you’d look forward to making every morning in December.
I hope it becomes one of your go-to holiday drinks, the kind you crave long after Christmas lights come down.
