Did you know a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino at Starbucks can have over 400 empty calories*, tons of added sugar, cholesterol, unhealthy fats and more. After purchasing a plant-based vanilla bean protein powder, I knew I had to create a similar healthy version of the popular Starbucks drink. This vanilla bean frap is like no other! It provides you with lots of protein, healthy fats, vitamin E, calcium and vitamin D, just to name a few nutrients;)
Who knew you could enjoy a vanilla bean frappuccino after a workout without feeling guilty!?
*Empty calories are known as calories that provide minimal vitamins and minerals yet lots of unhealthy fats and added sugars.
PlantFusion Vanilla Bean Protein Powder
I wanted to use a vanilla bean protein powder to maximize the nutrition content and when I saw that PlantFusion had a vanilla bean flavour, I knew it would be perfect! PlantFusion have excellent protein powders because they are a plant-based, gluten-free and vegan.
Nutrition// 21g of protein {complete protein!} in 1 scoop, also provides 4,500mg of BCAA’s {branched chain amino acids- essential amino acids metabolized in muscle tissue for quick use to rebuild muscle after a good workout} and MANY vitamins and minerals.
Where to buy// Online
Full Fat Coconut Milk
You may be thinking, how in the world is FULL FAT coconut milk healthy? Well coconut milk is a source of saturated fat, which should be limited in the diet BUT the type of saturated fat in coconut milk is mainly MCT {medium chain triglycerides}. MCT are easily broken down, absorbed and used for energy. This process is different than long chain triglycerides {common type of fat in our diets} where fat requires modification and is broken down slowly {unhealthy fats}.
Just like anything, moderation is key. Just because coconut milk contains mainly healthy fats, too much of a good thing is not always good. Be mindful when using coconut milk {and coconut oil} because it is easy to over do it-because it tastes that good!
Enjoy this beverage after a workout, in the morning for breakfast or with friends!
Vanilla Bean Frappuccino
- Yield: 2 1x
Description
Who knew you could enjoy a HEALTHY vanilla bean frappuccino after a workout or even for breakfast!
Ingredients
- Approximately 500 mL vanilla almond milk, unsweetened
- 1 scoop vanilla bean protein powder
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1/2 can full fat coconut milk
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- Dash of vanilla extract
Instructions
- Chill can of coconut milk overnight or for 6-7 hours.
- Once chilled, flip the can over, open up the can and remove the liquid {flipping the can over helps separate the liquid from the solid}
- Set the liquid aside {we will not be using this}.
- Scrap the coconut milk fat out of the can and add to a mason jar along with the maple syrup and vanilla extract. {Be sure to use a mason jar or container that has a good lid!}
- Shake jar for 3-4 minutes or until you get a whipped coconut cream.
- Add almond milk, protein powder, ice and whipped cream to high speed blender.
- I personally prefer small chunks of ice {just like Starbucks!} so I like to pulse the beverage just enough for everything to blend.
- Add to a tall glass and enjoy with a piece of dark chocolate or top with coconut whipped cream.
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast, Post-Workout
Hope you enjoy the recipe!
-Brittney
You can also find me on: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest
Get weekly healthy recipe post sent to your inbox & a FREE resource guide on How to Eat Healthy on a Budget! Sign up today!
[…] Starbucks’ Frappuccinos can include more than 400 calories, as well as plenty of additional sugars, cholesterol, bad fats, and other ingredients. I knew I had to make a similarly healthier version of the well-known Starbucks beverage after buying a plant-based vanilla bean protein powder. There is nothing else like this vanilla bean filling! It provides you with a lot of protein and good fats. Recipes Vanilla Bean Frappuccino. […]