Holiday Protein Shakes You’ll Actually Look Forward to Drinking

If you love the flavors of the holidays but not the heavy feeling that comes with them, this is for you. These holiday protein shakes were created to give you that cozy, seasonal sweetness and support your strength goals. I created this post because sometimes I crave a sweet dessert-like treat after my workout.

Each recipe is high in protein, quick to blend, and perfect for busy parents, athletes, or anyone trying to stay on track while still enjoying La Dolce Vita…with a dumbbell in hand. Consider these your festive, feel-good strength boosters.

Yummy Chocolate Hazelnut Shake

Tastes like: A Nutella fix—without the calorie guilt.

Ingredients

• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (≈ 120 cal, 24 g protein)

• 1 tbsp powdered peanut butter (PB2 Hazelnut or regular PB2) – gives the nutty taste for ~25 cal instead of 90 cal

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (≈ 30 cal)

• 1 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder (≈ 10 cal)

• ½ tsp hazelnut extract (optional, adds the Nutella flavor with 0 cal)

• Ice

• Optional: ¼ frozen banana or a few drops of stevia if you like it sweeter

Blend until smooth and frothy. Dust with cocoa powder if you want to keep the fancy vibe.

Nutrition (approx.)

Calories: ~185 kcal
Protein: ~25 g
Fat: ~5 g
Carbohydrates: ~6 g
Fiber: ~2 g
Sugar: ~2 g

Ways to Adjust

• Add creaminess: 2 tbsp Greek yogurt adds ~20 cal + 2 g protein.

• Extra indulgent (still light): 1 tsp mini chocolate chips blended in adds 25 cal.

• Post-workout recovery boost: ½ cup Fairlife skim milk + ½ cup almond milk = more protein, same volume.

Gingerbread Cookie Protein Shake

Tastes like: a soft gingerbread cookie… but with 25–30g of protein.

Ingredients

• 1 scoop vanilla or cinnamon protein powder

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or Fairlife for extra protein)

• ½ frozen banana (optional for creaminess + sweetness)

• 1 tsp molasses (key gingerbread flavor!)

• ½ tsp ground ginger

• ¼ tsp cinnamon

• Dash of nutmeg

• Dash of allspice (optional)

• 1–2 ice cubes

• Optional: 1–2 tbsp oats if you want a thicker, cookie-dough vibe

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.

2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Sprinkle cinnamon on top or add a gingerbread cookie crumble if you want it festive for photos.

Nutrition (approx.)

Without oats & without banana:

• Calories: ~200

• Protein: ~25 g

• Fat: ~3 g

• Carbs: ~12 g

With banana: +45–50 calories
With 1 tbsp oats: +15 calories

Make It Even Better

• For extra protein: Use Fairlife milk or add 2 tbsp Greek yogurt.

• For lower calories: Skip the banana and use stevia or monk fruit drops.

• For a “cookie crumble” topping: Mix cinnamon + a dash of brown sugar or use a tiny crushed ginger snap (photo-worthy!).