Ninja Slushi Ultimate Vanilla Peanut Butter Cup Protein Milkshake

This Ninja SLUSHi Vanilla Protein Milkshake with Peanut Butter Cups is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a powerful and refreshing indulgence designed to fuel your body while satisfying your cravings. Imagine a thick, frosty slushie, rich with creamy vanilla and the irresistible combination of peanut butter and chocolate, ready in mere minutes. Whether you need a revitalizing post-workout recovery drink, a delicious meal replacement, or a guilt-free dessert, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s incredibly easy to make, especially when utilizing the innovative Ninja SLUSHi machine, though a high-quality regular blender also works wonderfully to achieve a similar frosty delight.

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For an in-depth understanding of the Ninja SLUSHi machine, including its capabilities and my honest user experience, be sure to read my How-to Guide and Honest Review of the Ninja SLUSHi Machine. This comprehensive review will help you unlock its full potential for all your frozen drink creations.

Why You Will Love This Protein Milkshake

This Ninja SLUSHi Vanilla Protein Milkshake isn’t just another drink; it’s a delightful experience packed with numerous benefits. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your healthy and indulgent routine:

• Unbeatable Flavor Profile: Indulge in the harmonious and classic combination of creamy vanilla and rich peanut butter chocolate. This milkshake genuinely tastes like a decadent, guilt-free dessert, making healthy eating truly enjoyable.
• High in Satisfying Protein: Packed with a significant protein boost from both the liquid protein shake and the protein peanut butter cups, this recipe is ideal for various health and fitness goals. It supports muscle recovery after a workout, promotes satiety to keep you feeling full longer, and can even serve as a nutritious and balanced meal replacement.
• Remarkably Quick & Easy Preparation: With the innovative Ninja SLUSHi machine, or even a robust regular blender, you can whip up this frosty treat in mere minutes. This makes it a perfect solution for busy mornings, rushed post-gym sessions, or when you crave something sweet without a long wait.
• Incredibly Versatile & Customizable: This recipe offers fantastic flexibility. Easily adapt it to your specific dietary preferences or nutritional goals by swapping milk types, adjusting sweeteners, or incorporating various add-ins to boost flavor, fiber, or micronutrients.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy this versatile protein milkshake any time of day. It’s excellent after a strenuous workout for quick recovery, as a satisfying and energizing breakfast on the go, a refreshing afternoon snack to curb cravings, or a guilt-free evening dessert to round off your day.

Key Ingredients for the Ultimate Protein Slushie

Crafting this thick, creamy, and protein-packed milkshake relies on a thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect slushie consistency and irresistible flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more.

• Milk: The essential liquid base for our milkshake, milk provides fundamental creaminess and helps all ingredients blend together seamlessly. Your choice of milk can greatly impact the final taste and nutritional profile.
  • Dairy Milk Options: For a classically rich and velvety taste, whole milk is an excellent choice. If you prefer a lighter option, skim or low-fat milk works well without compromising too much on texture.
  • Plant-Based Milk Alternatives: For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, numerous plant-based milks are suitable. Unsweetened almond milk is a popular choice for lower calories, while oat milk adds extra creaminess and a subtle nutty flavor. Soy milk can provide additional protein, and cashew milk offers a wonderfully smooth texture. Always ensure your chosen milk is well-chilled for optimal results.
• Sugar or Sweetener: This ingredient is vital for enhancing the sweetness, balancing the protein flavors, and, critically, for proper functioning of the Ninja SLUSHi machine. The machine often requires a certain sugar content for the optimal freezing process.
  • Granulated Sugar: A traditional and effective choice that guarantees sweetness and significantly aids in achieving the desired frozen texture.
  • Natural Sweeteners: For a more natural approach, options like honey or maple syrup can add a delightful depth of flavor, but remember to adjust quantities carefully based on your desired sweetness.
  • Sugar-Free Alternatives: For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, consider sweeteners such as erythritol, stevia, monk fruit, or allulose. These provide sweetness without significantly impacting blood sugar levels, though you might need to experiment with ratios to ensure proper freezing with the Ninja SLUSHi machine.
• Liquid Vanilla Protein Shake: This ingredient provides the bulk of your protein, delivering a significant nutritional boost alongside a delightful vanilla essence. Using a pre-made liquid shake streamlines the preparation process and ensures a consistent flavor and texture.
  • Ready-to-Drink Shakes: These are incredibly convenient and often fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. Choose your favorite brand and preferred protein type, whether it’s whey, casein, or a plant-based blend.
  • Homemade Protein Shake: If you prefer to use protein powder, simply blend 1-2 scoops of your favorite vanilla protein powder with 10-12 ounces of water or milk beforehand. This ensures the powder is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth before adding it to your SLUSHi machine or blender.
• Protein Peanut Butter Cups: These are the ultimate add-in for indulgence, transforming a simple protein shake into a truly decadent, yet guilt-free, dessert-like experience. They provide a fantastic texture contrast and an extra layer of protein and flavor.
  • Enhanced Flavor & Texture: The irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate pieces provides a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor in every sip, elevating the entire milkshake.
  • Boosted Protein Content: Specially formulated protein peanut butter cups significantly boost the overall protein content, making your shake even more satisfying and beneficial for your fitness goals. Ensure they are diced into small pieces for easy blending and even distribution throughout the slushie.

Essential Equipment for Your Protein Milkshake

To achieve the perfect thick and frosty consistency for your protein milkshake, the right equipment can significantly enhance your experience. While the Ninja SLUSHi machine is specifically engineered for this purpose, a high-quality regular blender can also deliver excellent results with a few strategic adjustments.

• Ninja SLUSHi Frozen Drink Machine: This innovative appliance is specifically designed to create perfectly frozen, slushie-like drinks. Its unique mechanism slowly freezes and continuously scrapes the liquid mixture, resulting in an exceptionally light, airy, and incredibly creamy texture. The hands-off operation is a major convenience, meaning less effort for you, and it expertly maintains the ideal slushie consistency without the risk of over-blending, which can sometimes happen with a standard blender. This machine truly streamlines the process, delivering consistent, top-tier quality every single time.
• Regular Blender: A powerful regular blender serves as a versatile and effective alternative if you don’t have a Ninja SLUSHi machine. While it doesn’t offer the slow-freeze scraping action, it can still produce a deliciously thick protein shake. The primary difference is that a blender relies on the addition of ice to achieve its frosty texture. Blenders often offer more flexibility for incorporating a wider variety of solid add-ins like frozen fruits, Greek yogurt, or various nut butters directly into the mix, which might require a more robust blending capability. For the best possible results, opt for a high-speed or professional-grade blender.

Crafting Your Ninja SLUSHi Vanilla Protein Milkshake

Making this delightful protein milkshake with your Ninja SLUSHi machine is incredibly simple and consistently yields a perfectly frosty, creamy result. For detailed measurements and full step-by-step instructions, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this post.

1. Prepare the Sweetened Milk Base: Begin by combining your chosen milk (whether dairy or a plant-based alternative) with the sugar or sweetener in a clean cup or glass. Stir the mixture thoroughly until the sugar or sweetener is completely dissolved. This crucial step ensures even sweetness throughout the milkshake and is particularly important for the Ninja SLUSHi machine, as proper dissolution contributes to the ideal slushie consistency and helps prevent a “low sugar” alert during processing.
2. Load the Ninja SLUSHi Machine: Carefully pour the prepared sweetened milk mixture, followed by the liquid vanilla protein shake, into the Ninja SLUSHi machine’s reservoir. Be mindful not to exceed the maximum fill line indicated on the machine. Once the liquid ingredients are in place, power the machine on and select the designated “milkshake” setting to begin the freezing process.
3. Allow for Automated Processing: Let the Ninja SLUSHi machine work its magic. The processing time can vary, typically ranging from 15 to 45 minutes. This duration largely depends on factors such as the initial temperature of your liquids (colder liquids freeze faster) and their sugar content (sufficient sugar aids in freezing). In most cases, you can expect a perfectly thick milkshake to be ready in approximately 20-25 minutes. The machine will signal when the cycle is complete.
4. Serve and Enjoy with Peanut Butter Cups: Once the machine indicates that the cycle is complete, your incredibly creamy vanilla protein milkshake is ready to be savored. Position a sturdy serving glass (preferably a large one, as the milkshake will be quite thick) under the self-serve spout and pull the handle to dispense approximately half of the milkshake. Sprinkle in about half of your finely diced protein peanut butter cups and give it a gentle stir to ensure they are well distributed. Continue to fill the glass with the remaining milkshake, then add the rest of the peanut butter cups and stir once more. This layering technique ensures you get delightful peanut butter chocolate chunks throughout every thick, frosty sip.

Using a Regular Blender for a Thick Protein Shake

If you don’t currently own a Ninja SLUSHi machine, you can still effortlessly create a delicious and satisfyingly thick vanilla protein milkshake using a standard blender. The primary key to achieving a frosty, slushie-like texture with a blender is the strategic and adequate use of ice.

1. Gather All Your Ingredients: Before you begin, ensure you have all your milkshake ingredients readily available. This includes your chosen milk, preferred sweetener, the liquid vanilla protein shake, and the diced protein peanut butter cups. Having everything measured and prepped will make the blending process smooth and quick.
2. Strategically Add Ice: Unlike the Ninja SLUSHi machine, which actively freezes the liquid mixture, a regular blender relies on the addition of ice to create its frosty texture and thickness. Start by adding a substantial amount of ice to your blender – anywhere from 1 to 3 cups, depending on your desired thickness and the power of your blender. It’s always best to start with a conservative amount and add more gradually if needed, as it’s easier to thicken a shake than to thin it out.
3. Combine Liquids & Blend: Pour the pre-sweetened milk mixture and the liquid protein shake into the blender directly over the ice. Add the diced peanut butter cups into the blender as well. Secure the blender lid tightly and begin blending on a high-speed setting. Continue to blend until the mixture is completely smooth and reaches your preferred slushie-like consistency. For thicker shakes or when using less powerful blenders, you may need to use a tamper (if your blender has one) or stop the blender occasionally to scrape down the sides with a spatula, ensuring all ingredients are incorporated evenly.
4. Adjust Consistency as Needed: Once blended, assess the consistency. If the milkshake appears too thin for your liking, simply add a few more ice cubes, one at a time, and blend again until it thickens to your desired preference. Conversely, if the shake turns out too thick, you can add a small splash more milk or liquid protein shake to achieve a smoother, more drinkable consistency.
5. Serve Immediately for Best Texture: Blender-made protein milkshakes are at their absolute best when enjoyed right away. Serving immediately preserves their frosty, thick texture, as they tend to melt faster than those made in the Ninja SLUSHi machine.

While both methods ultimately produce a fantastic protein milkshake, they differ in how they achieve that signature frosty consistency. The Ninja SLUSHi machine employs a slow freezing and scraping process, resulting in a uniquely light, airy, and incredibly creamy texture that stays thick without the risk of over-blending. A regular blender, on the other hand, provides excellent flexibility for incorporating a wider range of solid add-ins and relies heavily on ice to create its thick, slushie-like consistency. Both are excellent options, depending on your available equipment and personal preference for texture.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Protein Milkshake

Achieving a consistently perfect, creamy, and satisfying protein milkshake is easy with these simple yet effective tips that will elevate your homemade frozen treat:

• Always Chill Your Ingredients: For the absolute best and fastest results, especially when using the Ninja SLUSHi machine, ensure all your liquid ingredients (milk, liquid protein shake) are thoroughly pre-chilled. Starting with cold liquids significantly reduces the processing time and leads to a firmer, more consistent frozen texture.
• Dissolve Sweetener Completely: When combining your milk and sugar or sweetener, take the time to stir until it is entirely dissolved. Undissolved sugar can affect the final texture of your slushie and may even trigger a “low sugar” alert on the Ninja SLUSHi machine, interrupting the process.
• Never Overfill the Machine: Always adhere strictly to the maximum fill line indicated on your Ninja SLUSHi machine. Overfilling can lead to improper freezing, an inconsistent texture, and potential spills.
• Start with Less Ice (for blenders): If you are using a regular blender, it’s a good practice to begin with the recommended amount of ice and add more gradually if needed. It’s much easier to thicken a milkshake by adding more ice than it is to thin it out once it’s too solid.
• Blend in Stages (for blenders): For the smoothest possible consistency when using a regular blender, consider blending your liquids and any softer add-ins (like banana puree or yogurt) first. Once smooth, gradually add your ice and harder mix-ins (such as protein peanut butter cups) and blend again until everything is perfectly combined and frosty.
• Consider Your Protein Type: Be aware that different types of protein powders can subtly impact the final texture of your milkshake. Whey protein typically blends very smoothly, while casein protein can often create a noticeably thicker consistency. If you’re switching protein powders, you might need to slightly adjust the amount of liquid or ice to achieve your desired texture.
• Don’t Forget the Toppings: Elevate your milkshake to true dessert status with some delicious garnishes! A generous swirl of whipped cream (dairy or a coconut-based alternative), an extra sprinkle of crushed protein peanut butter cup pieces, or a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup can make all the difference, both visually and texturally.
• Serve Immediately for Peak Freshness: While there are storage options for leftovers (which we’ll discuss below), protein milkshakes are always at their peak flavor and frostiness when enjoyed immediately after preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your Ninja SLUSHi Vanilla Protein Milkshake with Peanut Butter Cups:

• My Ninja SLUSHi machine gave me a low sugar alert. What should I do to fix it?

  This alert usually indicates that the sugar content in your liquid mixture is insufficient for the machine’s freezing mechanism to work optimally. To resolve this, simply add an additional 1-2 tablespoons of sugar or your preferred sugar-free sweetener (such as monk fruit, allulose, or regular granulated sugar) to the mixture. Stir well to dissolve, then restart the processing cycle. This adjustment should allow the machine to freeze the milkshake correctly.

• How long does the Ninja SLUSHi machine typically take to make the milkshake?

  The processing time can vary, usually falling within a range of 15 to 45 minutes. Several factors influence this duration, including the initial temperature of your ingredients (colder liquids freeze faster) and their sugar content (adequate sugar aids in the freezing process). Based on my experience, you can often expect a perfectly thick and frosty milkshake in approximately 20-25 minutes.

• What kind of protein shake should I use for the best results in this recipe?

  For the optimal flavor and texture in this particular recipe, a liquid vanilla protein shake is highly recommended. You have two main options: you can use readily available, pre-made, ready-to-drink vanilla protein shakes from your local store. Alternatively, if you prefer using protein powder, simply blend a scoop of your favorite vanilla protein powder with 10-12 ounces of water or milk until it’s completely smooth and free of lumps before adding it to the Ninja SLUSHi machine or your blender.

• Can I use any type of milk in this protein milkshake recipe?

  Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to your choice of milk. You are free to use regular dairy milk (whether whole, skim, or low-fat), or any popular plant-based milk alternative such as almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or cashew milk. Select the option that best aligns with your dietary needs, taste preferences, and nutritional goals.

• Do I need to add sugar or sweetener if I’m already using a flavored protein shake?

  Yes, even if your protein shake is flavored, if your ingredients (especially the protein shake itself) are labeled as sugar-free or contain very low amounts of natural sugars, you will almost certainly need to add an additional sweetener. The Ninja SLUSHi machine specifically requires a certain level of sugar content for optimal freezing and to achieve that desirable thick, slushie-like texture. Options like monk fruit, allulose, or regular granulated sugar are recommended to ensure your milkshake freezes correctly and tastes delicious.

• Can I prepare this protein milkshake ahead of time for later consumption?

  For the ultimate frosty, creamy, and delightful texture, this milkshake is genuinely best served immediately after its preparation. However, if you need to prepare it in advance, you can blend all the liquid ingredients (excluding the peanut butter cups) and freeze the mixture in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply remove it from the freezer, allow it to thaw slightly for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a blender with the peanut butter cups and re-blend until it reaches your desired slushie consistency.

• How can I add more flavor or nutrition to my milkshake?

  There are numerous creative ways to customize and enhance your protein shake! For an extra layer of creaminess and a boost of potassium, try blending in a ripe banana (ensure it’s blended until completely smooth to avoid chunks). For an additional protein punch and beneficial probiotics, a spoonful of Greek yogurt is an excellent addition. For a clever, sneaky nutrient boost without altering the flavor significantly, blend in a handful of fresh spinach (again, ensure it’s blended until perfectly smooth).

• Can I use different add-ins instead of protein peanut butter cups?

  Absolutely! While protein peanut butter cups are a fantastic choice, feel free to experiment with a variety of other delicious mix-ins to suit your cravings. Consider adding mini chocolate chips, crunchy cocoa nibs, or even a generous spoonful of natural peanut butter or almond butter to maintain a nutty, chocolatey theme. For a salty crunch, try mini pretzels. Chopped dates can add natural sweetness and a chewy texture, while a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder can introduce new flavor dimensions.

• How do I serve this protein milkshake for the best possible experience?

  To maximize your enjoyment, pour your freshly made protein milkshake into a tall, chilled glass. For an extra touch of indulgence and visual appeal, consider topping it with a generous swirl of whipped cream (dairy-based or a coconut-based alternative) and an extra sprinkle of crushed protein peanut butter cup pieces. Placing a whole protein peanut butter cup on the rim of the glass makes for an attractive garnish. Enjoy every thick, frosty sip with a wide straw or a spoon to savor the perfect slushie texture!

Substitution and Add-ins Ideas

One of the most appealing aspects of this protein milkshake recipe is its incredible versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your personal taste, specific dietary needs, or simply to make use of ingredients you already have on hand. It’s important to remember that for optimal results with the Ninja SLUSHi machine, any solid or whole ingredients must be blended into a smooth, liquid consistency *before* being added to the machine’s reservoir. The SLUSHi machine performs best with liquid-based mixtures. If you are using a regular blender, you often have more flexibility to add some solids directly.

• Nut Butters for Enhanced Creaminess & Protein:
  • Peanut Butter or Almond Butter: A generous spoonful adds a rich, nutty flavor, beneficial healthy fats, and an extra boost of protein. Ensure it’s blended in thoroughly for a smooth, lump-free shake.
  • Cashew Butter or Sunflower Seed Butter: These offer fantastic alternative flavor profiles and are excellent choices for those with specific nut allergies or who simply prefer different tastes.
• Additional Protein Boosts:
  • Protein Powder (Vanilla, Chocolate, or Peanut Butter Flavor): If you’re not utilizing a liquid protein shake, or if you simply desire an even higher protein content, blend in a scoop of your favorite protein powder with your milk before adding the mixture to the machine.
  • Greek Yogurt: Incorporating a dollop of Greek yogurt adds a pleasant creamy tang, additional protein, and beneficial probiotics, supporting gut health. Blend it until it’s perfectly smooth.
• Chocolatey Enhancements for the Sweet Tooth:
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: For those who crave a deeper, more intense chocolate flavor, blend in a teaspoon or two of high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder.
  • Mini Dark Chocolate Chips or Cacao Nibs: These are perfect for adding a delightful textural element and a bittersweet kick. If you’re using the Ninja SLUSHi, it’s best to stir these in *after* the main processing, as the machine might not fully incorporate solid chunks.
  • Sugar-Free Chocolate Syrup: A guilt-free way to layer on more chocolatey goodness, whether blended directly into the shake or elegantly drizzled on top as a garnish.
• Fruity Twists for Natural Sweetness & Vitamins:
  • Bananas: Whether fresh or frozen, bananas contribute natural sweetness, incredible creaminess, and a good dose of potassium. If using, ensure they are blended until completely smooth. Frozen banana chunks are also excellent for thickening a blender-made shake.
  • Strawberries or Blueberries: Fresh or frozen berries add a vibrant burst of fruity flavor and valuable antioxidants. If using the SLUSHi machine, puree them into a smooth liquid first, or add them directly to a blender.
  • Freeze-Dried Fruit Powder (Strawberry, Raspberry, or Banana): This provides a concentrated flavor boost without adding extra liquid volume, making it an ideal addition for the Ninja SLUSHi.
• Crunchy & Textural Elements (Best added after processing, especially for SLUSHi machine):
  • Crushed Protein Bars: Roughly chop up your favorite protein bar and stir it into the finished milkshake for extra chewiness, texture, and a flavor complement.
  • Granola or Crushed Graham Crackers: For a delightful texture contrast and a hint of sweetness, sprinkle these on top or gently stir them in just before serving.
  • Toasted Coconut Flakes: These add a wonderful tropical twist and a satisfyingly subtle crunch to your protein shake.
  • Chopped Nuts (Peanuts, Almonds, Walnuts): For an extra dose of healthy fats, fiber, and a satisfying crunch, finely chop your favorite nuts and stir them in.

How to Store Your Protein Milkshake

While this Ninja SLUSHi Vanilla Protein Milkshake is always at its peak when enjoyed fresh and immediately after preparation for that ultimate frosty texture, there are practical options available for storing any delicious leftovers, depending on how long you wish to keep it.

• In the Ninja SLUSHi Machine (Short-Term Storage):

  One of the most unique and convenient features of the Ninja SLUSHi machine is its remarkable ability to maintain the perfectly frozen texture of your drink for an extended period. You can easily store any leftover milkshake directly within the machine’s reservoir. However, to keep it in its ideal slushie state, the machine needs to remain running. It is designed to maintain that perfect frozen consistency for up to 12 hours this way. It’s crucial to note that if you turn the machine off, the milkshake will gradually melt back into its original liquid form.

• In the Freezer (Long-Term Storage):

  If you find yourself with a larger quantity of leftovers or if you specifically wish to store your protein milkshake for an extended period, the freezer is your best option. Transfer the remaining milkshake to an airtight, freezer-safe container. When stored properly in the freezer, it will maintain its quality and flavor for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, it will require re-blending. Simply remove the container from the freezer, allow it to thaw slightly at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes (or briefly microwave on low power), then transfer the partially thawed mixture to a blender. Add a splash of fresh milk or liquid protein shake, and blend until it returns to a smooth, slushie-like consistency. This method effectively brings back its desirable creamy texture.

• In an Insulated Container (Short-Term, On-the-Go Storage):

  For short-term storage, particularly if you plan to take your milkshake with you to work, the gym, or for an outing, an insulated container is an excellent choice. This type of container will help to keep your milkshake chilled and significantly minimize melting for several hours. If it does melt a bit while stored this way, simply give it a good shake or stir to re-combine. Adding a few fresh ice cubes right before you’re ready to serve can also help restore some of its frosty appeal. For the absolute best flavor and texture, aim to consume the milkshake within 12 hours when stored in an insulated container.

Discover More Ninja SLUSHi Recipes

The Ninja SLUSHi machine is an incredibly versatile appliance, capable of creating a wide array of delicious frozen beverages and treats far beyond just this protein milkshake. Expand your repertoire and make the most of your machine by exploring these other fantastic and easy-to-make recipes:

• Ninja SLUSHi Coffee Frappé (Vanilla Caramel): Indulge in a luxurious, frosty coffee treat that rivals your favorite cafe.
• Ninja SLUSHi Strawberry Lemonade Slush: A vibrant, refreshing, and fruity slush, absolutely perfect for cooling down on warm days.
• Ninja SLUSHi Chick-fil-A Frosted Lemonade: Easily recreate a beloved fast-food classic with a homemade, perfectly frosty twist.
• Ninja SLUSHi Lemonade: Enjoy the simple, tangy, and utterly refreshing taste of lemonade transformed into a delightful slushie form.
• Ninja SLUSHi Daiquiri: Perfect for entertaining, this recipe lets you craft a beautifully frozen, fruity cocktail right at home.
• Ninja SLUSHi Margarita: Enjoy a classic margarita, served perfectly frozen and blended to perfection for any gathering.
• Ninja SLUSHi Wendy’s Frosty: Get that iconic fast-food frosty texture and chocolatey goodness right in your own kitchen.

Ninja SLUSHi Vanilla Protein Milkshake with Peanut Butter Cups Recipe

By Brandi Crawford

This Ninja SLUSHi Vanilla Protein Milkshake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while fueling your body! Made with a vanilla protein shake and protein peanut butter cups, this shake blends up into a frosty, indulgent slushie that’s perfect for post-workout recovery or a guilt-free treat. Best of all, it comes together in just minutes using the Ninja SLUSHi machine or a regular blender.

Recipe Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (based on 1 vote)

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Prep Time: 5 minutes

Processing Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Course: Drink

Cuisine: American

Servings: 1 serving

Calories: 278 kcal

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Equipment Needed

• Ninja SLUSHi Frozen Drink Machine (or a high-powered blender)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stirring spoon
• Serving glass

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe yields 1 serving. Adjust quantities proportionally if you wish to prepare more servings.

• ½ cup milk (Any type of milk works, such as dairy or plant-based like almond milk. Ensure it’s chilled for best results.)
• 1-2 tablespoons sugar or sweetener (Adjust to your taste and for optimal Ninja SLUSHi machine performance.)
• 10-12 oz liquid vanilla protein shake (Preferably chilled. Alternatively, you can combine 1-2 scoops of vanilla protein powder with 10-12 oz of water or milk.)
• 1-2 protein peanut butter cups (Diced into small, bite-sized pieces for even distribution and enjoyable texture.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Sweetened Milk: In a measuring cup or glass, combine the milk and your chosen sugar or sweetener. Stir diligently until the sugar or sweetener is completely dissolved. This crucial step ensures even sweetness and proper freezing consistency.

2. Add to Ninja SLUSHi Machine: Carefully pour the sweetened milk mixture and the liquid vanilla protein shake into the Ninja SLUSHi machine’s reservoir. Ensure you do not exceed the maximum fill line. Power the machine on and press the designated “milkshake” button to begin the automated freezing process.

3. Process Until Thick: Allow the machine to process through its cycle. The freezing and scraping action will typically take between 15 and 45 minutes. Expect an average processing time of 20-25 minutes, though this can vary based on the initial temperature of your ingredients and their sugar content. The machine will indicate when the milkshake has reached its optimal, thick consistency.

4. Serve and Mix-in Peanut Butter Cups: Prepare a large glass for serving, as the finished milkshake will be wonderfully thick and creamy. Once the cycle is complete, place your glass under the self-serve spout and pull the handle to dispense approximately half of the milkshake. Sprinkle in about half of your diced protein peanut butter cups and gently stir to distribute them. Continue to fill the glass with the remaining milkshake, then add the rest of the peanut butter cups and stir again. This ensures you have delightful peanut butter chocolate chunks throughout every sip.

Chef’s Notes

How to Use a Regular Blender: If you are using a regular blender to make this milkshake, you will need to add 1-3 cups of ice to achieve a thick, frosty texture. First, combine all liquid ingredients and sweetener in your blender. Then, add the ice. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and reaches your desired slushie-like consistency, adding more ice as needed to thicken. Finally, add the diced peanut butter cups and pulse briefly to incorporate them without over-blending.

Milk Flexibility: This recipe is very forgiving when it comes to milk choice. Feel free to use any type of milk you prefer, including regular dairy milk (whole, skim, or low-fat), almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk alternative. Select the one that best matches your dietary needs and taste preferences.

Nutritional Information

Serving: 1 shake

Calories: 278 kcal

Carbohydrates: 3g

Protein: 36g

Fat: 12g

Nutrition Data Disclaimer: The macros provided above are offered as a courtesy and should not be construed as a guarantee of precise accuracy. This information is typically calculated using third-party nutrition analysis tools such as MyFitnessPal.com. To obtain the most accurate nutritional information for any given recipe, it is highly recommended that you calculate the nutritional values using the exact ingredients and brands you personally use in your recipe, employing your preferred nutrition calculator. You, the user, are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information you rely upon is accurate, complete, and useful for your individual dietary needs and health goals.

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