This horchata high-protein shake is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican horchata with a modern, nutrition-conscious twist. This smoothie provides a substantial protein boost. Making it an ideal post-workout recovery drink or a satisfying snack.

FEATURED STANDOUTS

Long Grain Rice

The foundation of any authentic horchata, long grain rice contributes a mild, starchy, and slightly nutty base. When soaked and blended, it creates a creamy, milky texture that is both comforting and refreshing. Beyond its textural contribution, rice provides a good source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Cinnamon Sticks 

Cinnamon sticks create the aromatic heart of horchata, they infuse the shake with a warm, woody, and lightly sweet spice. This classic spice not only enhances the flavor profile but also offers potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties. Using whole sticks rather than ground cinnamon ensures a purer, more authentic flavor.

Almond Milk

Almond milk provides a nutty, light, and subtly sweet base. It’s a fantastic dairy-free alternative. It keeps the shake light and refreshing. This alternative doesn’t overpower the delicate flavors of the other ingredients. It also adds a touch of healthy fats and vitamins.

Whey

The star of the “high protein” aspect, whey serves as a creamy base with a neutral to slightly milky taste. This easily digestible protein source is essential for muscle recovery and growth. Its neutral flavor ensures it blends seamlessly without altering the horchata’s traditional taste.

Vanilla

A touch of vanilla adds a layer of sweet, floral, and aromatic complexity to the shake. It beautifully complements the cinnamon and rice, rounding out the flavor profile and adding a hint of elegance. Opting for pure vanilla extract will yield the best results.

Date Sugar

For natural sweetness, date sugar is incorporated, offering a caramel-like sweetness with a fruity undertone. Unlike refined sugars, date sugar retains some of the nutritional benefits of the whole date, including fiber and minerals. It provides a rich depth of flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the other ingredients.

TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE BEST HORCHATA HIGH-PROTEIN SHAKE

Soak rice overnight for a smoother horchata base

This is a crucial step for achieving that silky, authentic horchata texture. Soaking the rice allows it to soften significantly. This makes it easier to blend into a creamy liquid. It also ensures there are no gritty bits in your final shake.

Blend with ice for a milkshake-style texture

 For a truly decadent experience, add ice during the blending process. This will transform your shake into a thick, frothy, milkshake-like consistency. This is especially refreshing on a warm day and enhances the overall enjoyment.

Add a shot of cold brew for a protein coffee twist

For those who enjoy a hint of coffee with their sweet treats, a shot of cold brew is a game-changer. This addition creates a delightful “protein coffee” variation. It combines the energizing effects of coffee with the satisfying flavors of horchata. You also get the benefits of protein. It’s a perfect pick-me-up any time of day.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

Blender

Measuring Cups

Mason jar or two

Measuring Spoons

SIMILAR INGREDIENTS TO

BANANA COCONUT CREAM PROTEIN SMOOTHIE

MIXED BERRY + MIXED GREENS PROTEIN SMOOTHIE

PINEAPPLE DARJEELING SMOOTHIE

ENJOY THIS RECIPE WITH

DARK CHOCOLATE & PEANUT OAT CLUSTERS

COFFEE & COCOA PROTEIN BITES

SPICE RUB ROASTED CHICKEN WRAP + DILL & CUCUMBER SAUCE

RECIPE

Marissa Bolden

Horchata High-Protein Shake

This Horchata High Protein Shake is a delightful fusion of traditional Mexican horchata and a modern, nutrition-conscious twist. This smoothie not only to tantalize your taste buds with its unique flavor profile but also to provide a substantial protein boost, making it an ideal post-workout recovery drink or a satisfying snack

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups water
• 3 whole cinnamon sticks
• 2 cups almond milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• High-Protein Shake Ingredients:
• 2 cups prepared horchata
• 1 scoop protein powder 1 serving, according to package instructions
• 1 tablespoon date sugar or preferred sweetener
• 1 banana
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice depending on desired thickness
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tsp chia seeds

Method

 

1. Part 1: Prepare the Horchata (24 hours in advance)
2. In a blender, combine the water, cinnamon sticks, and rice. Blend for one minute until a pulp forms.
3. Pour the entire contents into a glass or jar to store overnight. (You may need to add a little water to remove any rice that accumulates under the blender blade.)
4. After 24 hours, strain the mixture into a pitcher.
5. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond milk.
6. Part 2: Prepare the High-Protein Shake
7. Once the horchata is prepared, it forms the base for your protein smoothie.
8. Add the prepared horchata, banana, ice, protein powder, chia, and date sugar to a blender.
9. Blend until thick and creamy. Enjoy!

LET’S STAY CONNECTED

[ss_social_follow networks=”Pinterest”]