Vegans are constantly asked how we get enough protein. Fortunately, protein is a cinch on a plant-based diet, especially if you’re getting enough daily calories and eating a diet of mostly whole foods. Many folks on a plant-based diet enjoy supplementing their diet with vegan protein powder, however, especially after workouts—or when time is short and a protein shake is your best option for a quick breakfast.
Protein powders have evolved quite a bit in the last few years. Thanks to innovative protein powder formulas, you can now purchase protein powder that serves as both macronutrient and nutritional supplement, often replete with powdered greens, additional vitamins, adaptogens, probiotics, or other superfoods like açai and spirulina.
The obvious use for your favorite protein powder is in a post-workout recovery shake, but this is really just the beginning. There are several delicious ways to enjoy protein powder. Below are a few that look especially tempting, plus some of our favorite vegan protein powders.
To-Die-For Vegan Protein Powder Recipes
Vegan Cinnamon Roll Protein Porridge
This delicious, quick breakfast is packed with whole grains and satisfies cravings for a classic cinnamon roll—without the added sugar or inflammatory ingredients. And yes, it includes a healthy version of the decadent frosting you know and love from cinnamon rolls.
Moon Juice’s Amanda Chantal Bacon’s Deep Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Who says breakfast can’t be both indulgent and healthy? This simple recipe for protein-packed pancakes is a wonderful way to kick off a lazy—but nutritious—weekend, courtesy of the queen of west coast wellness.
Protein-Packed Omega-3 Blackberry Smoothie Bowl
This gorgeous bowl combines blackerries, cauliflower, flaxseed, and protein powder. It makes a delicious breakfast or post-workout recovery snack.
Vegan Protein Crepes with Yogurt, Basil & Berries
These protein crepes come together in almost no time—and they’re a wonderful break from your same ‘ol breakfast. In fact, this beautiful recipe is perfect for sharing with company. Hello, healthy brunch!
This creative recipe combines coffee, MCT’s from coconut (fats to help sustain your energy), protein powder, and omega-3-packed chia seeds. Now this sounds like bullet-proof coffee!
Creamsicle Kumquat Protein Shake
Wondering how to use kumquats? This sweet-sour fruit works beautifully in this ultra-creamy smoothie that also includes cinnamon, hemp hearts, orange juice, mango, and, of course, protein powder.
Fudgy Adaptogen Protein Bars (with Lactation Bar Variety)
I created these no-bake bars when I needed a do-everything snack shortly after I gave birth and needed to fuel myself (including my breastfeeding) without spending too much time in the kitchen. These rich bars are also a perfect vehicle for other powdered supplements that you’d like to include like adaptogens.
Lemon Blueberry Vegan Protein Coffee Cake
Oh. my. gosh. This cake. Crumbly, low in fat and sugar, and packed with protein, this coffee cake is a welcome wellness-friendly alternative to the variety found in your average café.
A few of our favorite protein powders
Moon Juice Blue Beauty Adaptogenic Protein
Created with brown rice protein, this organic adaptogenic and antioxidant blend of blue spirulina extract, ashwagandha root and leaf extract, and amla berry extract, promises to “reduce stress, restore and sustain energy, and control stress-related weight gain, while helping to preserve natural collagen and elasticity.”
Vega One All-in-One Nutritional Shake
This protein powder contains a solid boost of greens thanks to a combination of spinach powder, organic alfalfa grass powder, broccoli powder, spirulina, and organic kale powder. Plus, it’s also a source of probiotics (1 billion CFU bacillus coagulans). Finally, it offers 50% of your daily needs for 12 vitamins and minerals.
Ora Organic: So Lean & So Clean Protein Powder
Coupled with digestive enzymes, this vegan protein powder offers the full spectrum of amino acids. It also offers two servings of greens per serving of powder.
Amazing Grass Organic Plant-Based Protein Superfood
This blend offers seven alkalizing organic greens (wheat grass, barley grass, alfalfa, spinach, spirulina, chlorella, and broccoli); and two full servings of fruits and veggies (including sweet potato, açai, and pineapple). Mmm!
Do you use vegan protein powder? What are your favorite ways to enjoy protein powder?
Related: Best Tips for Getting Enough Protein in a Vegan Diet
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Photo: Quincy Malesovas, Lauren Kirchmaier, Mary Hood Luttrell, Tyler Talefsky, Respective brands
