Lakanto Classic Monkfruit Sweetener -- 1 lb

If you’re shopping for protein powders, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with options. There are rice, hemp, pea and whey protein powders. Some include superfoods, bone broth or collagen. And flavors range from classic chocolate, vanilla and strawberry to irresistible-sounding cinnamon roll, birthday cake and Dutch apple pie. Even with numerous options, it can be tricky to find the perfect personalized blend – especially if you’re following a specialty diet. That’s when it’s best to take matters into your own hands. When you make your own protein powder recipe, there’s no wondering what ingredients are hiding in your protein. You get to choose what ingredients best meet your health and fitness needs. An added bonus to crafting your own protein powder: it’s cost effective! Below, you’ll learn the many ingredient options for proteins, sweeteners, superfoods and more to help you reach your fitness goals. To get started, you’ll need the following items.

DIY Protein Powder Recipe

• Spice/coffee grinder
• Blender
• Measuring cups
• Mixing bowl
• Large spoon and/or whisk
• Mason jar (32 oz.) or other storage container

Step 1:  Protein base

For your protein base, choose a dairy or plant-based recipe below. Use a spice/coffee grinder to blend the ingredients into a powder. Oatmeal is used as a thickener and adds fiber. If you use a ready-made base, a vanilla or unflavored protein powder is recommended to build on. Dairy-based protein: 1 cup nonfat dry milk 1 cup almond meal 1 cup oatmeal Plant-based protein: 1/3 cup chia seeds 1/4 cup hemp hearts or seeds 1/2 cup almond meal Note: Use sunflower seeds for nut-free recipe

Step 2:  Sweetener

Another perk of making a protein powder recipe is the ability to choose a sweetener. Who knew there were so many choices? Choose one to four tablespoons of one of the following sweeteners.

• Monkfruit
• Stevia
• Truvia
• Coconut sugar
• Banana chips or other crispy dried fruit
• Note: Grind dried fruit into powder using spice/coffee grinder

Step 3:  Fitness goals

Everyone has different fitness goals. Depending on your needs, add 1/4 cup of your choice.

• Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA) powder (unflavored): helps promote muscle recovery from sports activities†
• Collagen: natural support for joints, skin and all connective tissue†
• Matcha green tea: supports a healthy metabolism and helps maintain a healthy cardiovascular system†
• Pre-workout powder (unflavored): helps with energy and focus†

Step 4:  Superfoods

Add a superfood boost to your protein powder recipe. Scoop 1/4 cup of the below options into your powder.

• Goji berry powder: supports healthy blood sugar levels and provides immune system support
• Moringa powder: contains amino acids and antioxidants
• Wheat germ: contains omega-3 fatty acids
• Fermented fruits: may provide digestive health support
• Acai berry powder: includes minerals, amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins A and C and adds sweetness
• Pomegranate powder: contains antioxidants and adds sweetness
• Chlorella powder: dense in nutrients

Step 5:  Extra additions

This last step is an optional yet fun way to customize your protein powder recipe. Choose as many additions as you’d like. The possibilities are endless, but here’s a few ideas.

• Powdered peanut butter
• Instant espresso powder
• Cinnamon
• Carob powder
• Vanilla beans
• Chia seeds
• Pumpkin pie spice
• Shredded coconut

Step 6:  Combine all ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mix together all ingredients using a whisk. Scoop the powder into a large mason jar or other storage container. Your powder can be stored on a countertop for up to 1 month or in the refrigerator for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to make a shake, use one scoop (about 4 tablespoons) per serving. Have fun and play with your recipe to find your perfect match. ^†These statements have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.