This cake batter protein shake tastes like birthday cake in a glass but packs 25 grams of protein. It’s creamy, naturally sweetened and comes together in minutes for the perfect high-protein breakfast or post-workout treat.
My birthday is tomorrow, so cake batter flavors have definitely been on my mind. I love a real slice of cake (especially my healthy birthday cake), but I also love a fun option that works for breakfast or a post-workout snack.
That’s how this cake batter protein shake was born. It has that classic vanilla-almond, sprinkle-filled birthday cake flavor, but it’s creamy, satisfying and actually keeps you full. If you’ve made my birthday cake protein balls, think of this as the smoothie version of that same nostalgic vibe.
Why I Love This Cake Batter Protein Shake
- Festive without being over the top: You get that classic cake batter flavor and sprinkles, but it still works as a balanced breakfast or snack.
- Actually filling: Between the protein powder, nut butter and chia seeds, this shake keeps you full and packs 25g of protein so you’re not hungry an hour later.
- Creamy and thick: The frozen banana and ice give it a milkshake-like texture without needing yogurt or ice cream.
- Quick and easy: Everything goes straight into the blender and it’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients Needed
- unsweetened almond milk – the base liquid that keeps the shake creamy without making it too heavy. I like unsweetened so I can control the sweetness myself.
- frozen banana – gives the shake natural sweetness and that thick, milkshake-like texture. Using it frozen is key for creaminess.
- vanilla or cake batter protein powder – this is where most of the flavor and protein comes from. A high-quality vanilla protein works great, but cake batter flavored protein makes it even more nostalgic. I tested this recipe with both Clean Simple Eats Cake Batter and Vanilla protein powder (use code EBF for 10% off), but your favorite protein powder brand works great.
- cashew butter – adds richness and helps mimic that buttery cake batter flavor. It also makes the shake more satisfying.
- chia seeds – boost fiber and thicken the shake slightly as they blend.
- sprinkles – stirred in at the end for that classic funfetti look. Totally optional, but highly recommended.
Find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make Cake Batter Protein Shake
Step 1: Add all ingredients except the sprinkles to a high-powered blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Stir in sprinkles (or pulse briefly if you want them a little blended). Pour into a glass and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Protein Shake
- Blend in the right order: Add the liquid first, then powders and nut butter, then frozen ingredients. This helps everything blend smoothly without clumping.
- Use a ripe frozen banana: The riper the banana before freezing, the sweeter and more cake-like your shake will taste.
- Adjust consistency at the end: After blending, check the thickness. Add a splash of milk if it’s too thick or a few more ice cubes if you want it thicker.
- Stir in sprinkles last: Blend first, then stir in the sprinkles by hand so they don’t bleed color into the shake.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can swap the banana for ½ cup frozen cauliflower for thickness. Just know that you’ll likely need to add a little maple syrup or a date since the banana is what brings most of the natural sweetness.
I recommend vanilla or cake batter protein powder because it really gives you that classic cake flavor. Vegan protein works too, but it tends to make shakes thicker, so you may need a splash more milk.
This shake is best right after blending. It will thicken as it sits, so if you prep it in advance, just give it a good shake or stir before drinking.
More Protein Shakes to Try
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Add all ingredients except the sprinkles to a high-powered blender.
1 cup unsweetened almond milk, ½-1 cup ice, ½ frozen banana, 1 scoop vanilla or cake batter protein powder, 1 Tablespoon cashew butter, ½ Tablespoon chia seeds, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon almond extract
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Blend until smooth and creamy. Add any additional milk or ice if needed to reach desired consistency.
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Stir in sprinkles (or pulse briefly if you want them a little blended).
1 Tablespoon rainbow sprinkles
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Pour into a glass and top with extra sprinkles. Optional: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a treat!
Serving: 1 | Calories: 385kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 221mg | Potassium: 555mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 18g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
