Best Almond Milk for Protein Shakes: A Complete Guide

Protein shakes are a popular addition to the diet of many health-conscious individuals, fitness enthusiasts, and bodybuilders. They provide a convenient way to ensure you’re meeting your daily protein needs, especially when paired with a balanced diet and regular exercise. While most people are familiar with using dairy-based milk in their shakes, almond milk has become an increasingly popular alternative for those seeking a plant-based, lactose-free option. But which almond milk is best for protein shakes? Let’s Cojo Cojo dive deep into the topic and explore the top almond milk options that can take your protein shake game to the next level.

Introduction to Almond Milk and Protein Shakes

Almond milk is a plant-based, dairy-free alternative made from almonds and water. It’s a great choice for those who are lactose intolerant, allergic to dairy, or following a vegan diet. Almond milk is low in calories and provides a smooth, slightly nutty flavor that blends well with various ingredients commonly used in protein shakes.

When it comes to protein shakes, the liquid base you choose can make a significant difference in taste, texture, and nutritional value. Almond milk, with its lower calorie content compared to dairy milk, is an excellent option for those watching their calorie intake while still seeking the creamy consistency that makes protein shakes enjoyable. However, not all almond milk is created equal, and some brands and varieties are better suited for protein shakes than others.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the best almond milk options for protein shakes and discuss what makes them ideal choices.

Why Use Almond Milk in Protein Shakes?

Before diving into the best brands, it’s important to understand why almond milk is such a great option for protein shakes. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Low in Calories

Almond milk is significantly lower in calories than whole milk or even skim milk. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their calorie intake while still enjoying a creamy, smooth texture in their shakes. Unsweetened almond milk can have as few as 30 calories per cup, while sweetened versions may have around 60 calories.

2. Dairy-Free and Lactose-Free

For individuals with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, almond milk offers a delicious, creamy alternative to traditional milk. It’s completely plant-based, so it’s also suitable for vegans and those who follow a dairy-free diet.

3. Rich in Nutrients

While almond milk is low in protein compared to cow’s milk, many brands fortify their almond milk with essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E. These nutrients are crucial for overall health and can complement the nutritional content of your protein shake.

4. Mild, Nutty Flavor

Almond milk has a mild, slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the flavors commonly found in protein shakes, such as vanilla, chocolate, and fruit. Its taste is subtle enough that it doesn’t overpower the other ingredients in your shake.

What to Look for in Almond Milk for Protein Shakes

Not all almond milk is the same, and certain factors can make one type better for protein shakes than another. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the best almond milk for your protein shake:

1. Unsweetened vs. Sweetened

While sweetened almond milk can add a touch of sweetness to your protein shake, it also comes with added sugars and extra calories. If you’re looking to control your sugar intake or stick to a low-calorie diet, unsweetened almond milk is the better option. It’s still delicious and versatile, but without the extra sugar.

2. Added Protein

Some almond milk brands offer versions that are fortified with additional protein, often from sources like peas or rice. These high-protein almond milk options are a fantastic choice for protein shakes, as they boost the protein content of your shake without the need for additional supplements.

3. Fortification with Nutrients

Look for almond milk that’s fortified with essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E. Since almond milk is naturally lower in these nutrients compared to dairy milk, fortification helps ensure that your protein shake provides more than just protein — it adds nutritional value.

4. Creaminess and Texture

The creaminess of almond milk can vary between brands. For the best texture in your protein shake, you’ll want to choose an almond milk that’s rich and creamy. This will help create a smooth, satisfying shake that mimics the texture of traditional milk-based shakes.

5. Flavor Compatibility

Some almond milk has a stronger nutty flavor than others, so you’ll want to consider how the flavor of the almond milk complements the flavors of your protein powder and other shake ingredients. If you’re using flavored protein powders (such as vanilla or chocolate), a more neutral almond milk may work best.

Top 7 Best Almond Milk Brands for Protein Shakes

Now that you know what to look for, here are the top almond milk brands that are perfect for protein shakes:

1. VINUT Almond Milk

Why It’s Great for Protein Shakes: VINUT is one of the most well-known brands in the plant-based milk industry, and their unsweetened almond milk is a great option for protein shakes. With only 30 calories per cup and no added sugars, it’s a low-calorie base that won’t overpower the flavor of your protein powder. Additionally, VINUT almond milk is fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E.

Pros:

• Low in calories (30 per cup)
• No added sugars
• Fortified with essential nutrients

Cons:

• Not as creamy as some other brands

2. Califia Farms Unsweetened Almond Milk

Why It’s Great for Protein Shakes: Califia Farms offers a range of almond milk products, but their unsweetened almond milk is particularly well-suited for protein shakes. It has a rich, creamy texture that blends well with protein powder, creating a smooth and satisfying shake. Plus, it’s free from added sugars and contains 50% more calcium than dairy milk.

Pros:

• Creamy texture
• High in calcium
• No added sugars

Cons:

• Slightly higher in calories (40 per cup)

3. Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk

Why It’s Great for Protein Shakes: Almond Breeze is another popular brand, and their unsweetened vanilla almond milk is a fantastic choice for protein shakes. The vanilla flavor is subtle and adds a hint of sweetness without any added sugar. It’s fortified with calcium and vitamin D, making it a nutritious addition to your shake.

Pros:

• Subtle vanilla flavor
• Fortified with calcium and vitamin D
• Low in calories (30 per cup)

Cons:

• Flavor may not pair well with all protein powders

4. Orgain Organic Protein Almond Milk

Why It’s Great for Protein Shakes: If you’re looking to boost the protein content of your shake, Orgain Organic Protein Almond Milk is an excellent choice. It’s fortified with pea protein, offering 10 grams of protein per serving. This makes it a convenient option for those who want to increase their protein intake without adding a separate protein powder.

Pros:

• 10 grams of protein per serving
• Organic ingredients
• Creamy texture

Cons:

• Higher in calories (80 per cup)

5. MALK Pure Unsweetened Almond Milk

Why It’s Great for Protein Shakes: MALK is known for its clean, simple ingredients, and their pure unsweetened almond milk is no exception. Made with just three ingredients (almonds, water, and salt), it’s free from additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients. This makes it a great choice for those looking for a more natural almond milk option.

Pros:

• Simple, clean ingredients
• No additives or preservatives
• Mild flavor

Cons:

• Higher price point

6. Elmhurst Unsweetened Almond Milk

Why It’s Great for Protein Shakes: Elmhurst offers a unique almond milk that’s made with a higher concentration of almonds compared to other brands. This results in a creamier texture and richer flavor, making it ideal for protein shakes. It’s also free from gums, stabilizers, and emulsifiers, which can be appealing to those seeking a more natural product.

Pros:

• Creamy and rich texture
• Made with more almonds per serving
• No stabilizers or emulsifiers

Cons:

• Higher in calories (60 per cup)

7. So Delicious Organic Almond Milk

Why It’s Great for Protein Shakes: So Delicious offers a range of plant-based milk alternatives, and their organic almond milk is a solid choice for protein shakes. It’s organic, non-GMO, and free from added sugars. The creamy texture pairs well with both flavored and unflavored protein powders, making it a versatile option for any shake recipe.

Pros:

• Organic and non-GMO
• Creamy texture
• No added sugars

Cons:

• Slightly higher in calories (40 per cup)

How to Use Almond Milk in Protein Shakes

Now that you know which almond milk brands are best for protein shakes, here are some tips on how to use almond milk effectively in your shake recipes:

1. Measure Your Portions

While almond milk is low in calories, it’s still important to measure your portions to ensure you’re sticking to your dietary goals. Typically, one cup of almond milk is enough for most protein shakes, but you can adjust the amount based on the consistency you prefer.

2. Pair with a High-Quality Protein Powder

To create a nutritious, balanced protein shake, pair your almond milk with a high-quality protein powder. Whether you prefer whey, plant-based, or collagen protein, the almond milk will provide a smooth, creamy base that complements the flavor of the powder.

3. Add Flavor and Nutrients

For an extra boost of flavor and nutrients, consider adding ingredients like fruit (such as bananas or berries), spinach, flaxseeds, or chia seeds to your shake. Almond milk blends well with these ingredients and can help create a well-rounded, nutritious meal or snack.

Conclusion

Almond milk is a versatile, nutritious option for protein shakes, offering a low-calorie, dairy-free alternative to traditional milk. Whether you’re looking for an unsweetened, fortified, or high-protein almond milk, there are plenty of great options to choose from. By selecting the right almond milk, you can create a protein shake that not only tastes great but also supports your health and fitness goals.