You know you need more protein to fuel your busy life and workouts, but some days you just don’t want another protein shake or bar. The good news is, you can easily make your own plant-based protein powder at home with just a few simple ingredients. Forget the expensive pre-made powders with a list of ingredients you can’t pronounce – this DIY version is all natural, affordable, and delicious. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a homemade protein powder to add to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt or however else you like to boost your protein. Ready to learn how to make plant-based protein powder with ingredients from your pantry? Read on to get started. This easy recipe is a game changer.
Why Make Your Own Plant-Based Protein Powder?
Why go to the trouble of making your own plant-based protein powder when there are so many pre-made options on store shelves? Here are a few good reasons:
Control the ingredients
Commercial powders often contain additives, fillers, and sweeteners you may want to avoid. By making your own, you can control exactly what goes into it. You can choose organic ingredients and natural sweeteners (if any). You can also leave out common allergens like soy or nuts if needed.
Save money
Plant-based protein powders can be pricey. Making your own allows you to buy ingredients in bulk and avoid the markup. With some basic equipment like a high-powered blender, you’ll have an inexpensive source of protein for smoothies, oats, and baking.
Customize for your needs
Have specific protein or nutritional needs? You can create a custom blend tailored to you. Want to boost the iron or add extra healthy fats? No problem. You decide how much of each ingredient to add.
Minimal processing
Homemade powders are less processed than most commercial versions. You simply combine whole foods and blend until powdered. No harsh extraction or concentration methods are required. Your powder will be as natural as the ingredients you put in.
Making your own plant-based protein powder does require a bit of effort, but for many it’s worth it. You’ll have an all-natural, affordable product made to your exact specifications. Your body and wallet will thank you. Give one of the simple recipes a try – you may never go back to store-bought!
The Benefits of Plant-Based Protein Powder
Making your own plant-based protein powder at home has some great benefits.
Save Money
You can save a decent amount of money by making your own powder rather than buying expensive pre-made varieties. All you need are a few simple ingredients – a plant-based protein source like pea protein isolate or rice protein powder, a natural sweetener such as stevia or monk fruit, and any extras like cocoa powder, turmeric or greens powder.
Control Ingredients
When you make your own, you have full control over what goes into it. You can choose organic, non-GMO ingredients and avoid artificial colors, preservatives and fillers. You can also customize the powder to your tastes and needs by adding in your own favorite superfoods and supplements.
Tailor to Your Needs
DIY protein powder means you can adjust the amounts of each ingredient to suit your own nutritional needs and protein requirements. Add more of your chosen plant-based protein source for extra protein, use less sweetener for fewer carbs, or increase the amount of supplements like spirulina or wheatgrass.
Experiment with Flavors
The options for flavors and combinations are endless. You can make chocolate protein powder, vanilla, berry or matcha green tea. Mix in some peanut butter powder for a peanut butter cup flavor or cinnamon, nutmeg and pumpkin pie spice for something festive. Getting creative and coming up with your own recipes can be a fun experiment in the kitchen.
Making your own plant-based protein powder does require a little time and effort but the benefits to your health, wallet and creative spirit make it worthwhile. Blend up a batch and enjoy!
The Best Plant-Based Protein Sources
When making your own plant-based protein powder at home, some of the best sources of protein to use include:
Peas
Pea protein powder is made from yellow peas and contains all nine essential amino acids our bodies need. It has a mild, neutral flavor and can work well in many recipes. Pea protein powder contains about 20 grams of protein per scoop and is easily digested.
Hemp
Hemp seeds contain complete protein and all nine essential amino acids. Hemp protein powder offers 15-20 grams of protein per scoop. It has an earthy, nutty flavor and creamy texture that works great in smoothies. Hemp seeds also provide heart-healthy omega-3 fats and fiber.
Brown Rice
Brown rice protein powder is hypoallergenic and contains all nine essential amino acids. It’s a good option for anyone with sensitivities to soy, dairy or gluten. Brown rice protein powder provides 15-20 grams of protein per scoop and has a mild flavor and fine texture.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seed protein powder offers 15 grams of protein per scoop, including all nine essential amino acids. It has an earthy, nutty flavor with hints of pumpkin spice. Pumpkin seeds are also high in zinc, magnesium and other minerals.
Chia Seeds
Chia protein powder provides 15 grams of complete protein per scoop. Chia seeds are also high in fiber, omega-3 fats and various minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and manganese. Chia protein powder has a mild nutty, cereal-like flavor and works well in smoothies, oatmeal and yogurt.
Using a combination of two or more of these plant-based protein sources will provide all the amino acids your body needs. You can customize the blend to your own tastes and nutritional needs. Homemade protein powders will typically last 2 to 3 months when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Equipment You’ll Need to Make Homemade Powder
To make your own plant-based protein powder at home, you’ll need a few basic pieces of equipment. None of these specialty tools are very expensive, and chances are you may already have some of them in your kitchen.
Blender or Food Processor
The most important tool is a high-powered blender or food processor. This will be used to grind your ingredients into a fine powder. Options like a Vitamix, Blendtec or Ninja blender work great, as do large food processors. A standard blender may struggle with some of the harder ingredients, so invest in a more powerful model if you can.
Measuring Cups and Scales
To ensure your powder has the right nutritional balance, measuring cups and a kitchen scale will be essential. Carefully measure each ingredient by weight using grams for the most accuracy. Volume measurements like cups can vary in density, so weighing your ingredients is the most precise method.
Storage Container
You’ll want an airtight container, like a mason jar or plastic tub with a lid, to store your finished powder. A one-quart size is a good start, but you can size up or down depending on how much powder you make at a time. An airtight seal will keep your powder fresh for several months. Label and date the container so you know when it’s time to make a new batch.
Optional Additional Tools
• Spice grinder – For grinding smaller seeds like flax or chia. A coffee grinder also works well for this.
• Fine mesh strainer – For sifting any chunks out of your finished powder.
• Dehydrator – If making powder from fresh ingredients like leafy greens, a dehydrator can be used to remove moisture before blending into powder.
• Nut milk bag – For straining any fibrous material from ingredients like nuts or seeds.
With the right tools and a little patience, you’ll be making your own nutritious plant-based protein powder at home in no time. Experiment with different ingredients like pea protein, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds or leafy greens to create a custom blend tailored to your tastes and needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Protein Powder
Making your own plant-based protein powder at home is easy and affordable. All you need are a few simple ingredients and a high-powered blender. Here’s how to do it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pea protein isolate
- 1/2 cup hemp protein powder
- 1/3 cup coconut flour
- 2 tablespoons coconut sugar or stevia
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
- Add the pea protein isolate, hemp protein powder, coconut flour, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and salt to your blender. Make sure the lid is securely fastened.
- Blend the ingredients on high for 3 to 5 minutes until a fine powder forms. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the blender jar as needed to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
- Once powdered, transfer your homemade protein powder to an airtight container or jar. Label and date the container.
- Store your protein powder in a cool, dry place away from direct heat or sunlight. When stored properly, it will last for 3 to 6 months.
- Add 1 to 2 scoops (about 30-60 grams) of the powder to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, or juice. You can also use it for baking in protein bars, muffins, and pancakes.
- Optional: you can also add other ingredients to boost the nutrition like flax meal, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. Cacao powder will enhance the chocolatey flavor.
- Use this plant-based protein powder as a meal replacement or enjoy as a snack. It provides a good source of protein and fiber to keep you full and energized.
Making your own protein powder at home lets you control exactly what goes into it. You’ll save money and end up with a product free from artificial sweeteners, fillers, and other additives commonly found in commercial powders. Enjoy your homemade creation!
Tips for Flavoring Your Homemade Protein Powder
Adding flavor to your homemade protein powder is key to making it tasty enough to enjoy every day. Here are some tips to boost the flavor without a lot of added sugar.
Cocoa powder
Add 1-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder per cup of protein powder. Cocoa powder adds a chocolatey flavor without extra sugar. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste.
Vanilla extract
2-3 teaspoons of vanilla extract adds a classic vanilla flavor to your protein powder. Vanilla works well alone or combines nicely with cocoa powder for a mocha flavor.
Cinnamon
1/2 to 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon per cup of protein powder gives it a warm, spicy kick. Cinnamon is especially good for boosting the flavor of plant-based protein powders made from pea or rice protein.
Nut butter
2-3 tablespoons of almond or peanut butter adds a nutty, creamy flavor to your protein powder. Use a sugar-free nut butter or make your own to control the amount of added sugar.
Fruit puree
1/4 to 1/2 cup of unsweetened fruit puree such as banana, strawberry or blueberry puree provides natural sweetness and fruit flavor to your protein powder. Start with 1/4 cup and add more to reach your desired flavor and sweetness.
extracts and spices
• Other additions to try: maple extract, peppermint or almond extract, pumpkin pie spice, cardamom or nutmeg.
• Combine flavors for variety like cocoa powder, cinnamon and peppermint extract or strawberry puree, vanilla and almond extract.
• Sweeteners (optional): Add 2-3 tablespoons of honey, maple syrup or stevia to taste for a sweeter flavor. But for the healthiest option, use flavorings that don’t require a lot of added sweetener.
With a little experimenting, you can create your own perfect flavored protein powder to fuel your days. Mix and match flavors to find what you love! Let your taste buds guide you.
Storing Your DIY Protein Powder
Once you’ve made your DIY plant-based protein powder, proper storage is important to keep it fresh and prevent spoilage. Here are some tips for storing your homemade protein powder:
Keep it Cool and Dry
The ideal temperature for storing protein powder is in a cool, dry area away from direct heat and sunlight. A pantry, cupboard or cabinet away from appliances like the stove or refrigerator is best. High heat and humidity can cause protein powder to clump, spoil faster and lose nutritional value.
Use an Airtight Container
Store your protein powder in an airtight container, like a jar, tub or zippered pouch. This will keep out air, moisture and contaminants to keep your powder fresher for longer. Glass or stainless steel containers with an airtight lid are good options. Make sure the container is thoroughly clean and dry before adding your powder.
Write the Date
Once you’ve made your protein powder, clearly write the ‘best by’ date on the container. Most DIY protein powders will last 2 to 3 months when stored properly in an airtight container. For best quality, use within 3 weeks. Check for signs of spoilage before using after this date.
Refrigerate After Opening
If using a large batch over time, refrigerate any powder you will use within a week to keep it as fresh as possible. Let the powder come to room temperature before adding to foods or drinks. The condensation that forms in the fridge can cause clumping if added directly.
Check Before Using
Give your protein powder a quick check before using after opening. Look for any unpleasant odors, dark spots, or mold growth which can indicate spoilage. If anything looks or smells off, it’s best to discard the powder. When in doubt, throw it out – it’s not worth risking foodborne illness!
Following these tips will help keep your DIY plant-based protein powder fresh, safe and effective for use in your healthy recipes and smoothies. Happy blending!
Recipes Using Homemade Plant-Based Protein Powder
Once you have your homemade plant-based protein powder, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
Smoothies
Add a scoop or two of your powder to a smoothie for a protein boost. Banana and peanut butter pair great with a vanilla-flavored powder. For chocolate, add cocoa powder, banana, and almond milk. You can also do a green smoothie with spinach or kale and mango.
Pancakes
Add a few tablespoons of powder to your favorite pancake batter. The powder will add protein to your pancakes without changing the flavor or texture. Top your pancakes with maple syrup, fruit, or whipped coconut cream.
Overnight Oats
For a quick breakfast, stir a scoop of powder into overnight oats. The powder blends right in and amps up the nutrition. Use a basic recipe of oats, chia seeds, plant-based milk, and a sweetener of your choice. Add extras like peanut butter, cocoa powder, or fresh berries.
Baked Goods
Add a few tablespoons of powder to muffin, cookie, or brownie batters. The powder works great in almost any baked good and adds protein without altering the taste or texture. Chocolate-based recipes pair especially well with chocolate or vanilla-flavored powders.
Energy Bites
Blend a scoop of powder into nut butter-based energy bite or protein ball recipes. The powder helps bind the ingredients together while providing protein. Dates, nut butter, and protein powder are a perfect combo for homemade protein bites. Roll the bites in shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts.
Whether you prefer smoothies, oats, or baked goods, homemade plant-based protein powder is a simple way to add nutrition to some of your favorite treats and snacks. Get creative and come up with your own recipes using ingredients you love. Your powder can be used as a replacement for some or all of the flour or as an addition to boost the protein in just about anything. The options are really up to you!
FAQ – Common Questions About How To Make Plant-Based Protein Powder
Plant-based protein powder can be expensive to buy, but did you know you can easily make your own at home? Here are some common questions and answers about creating DIY plant protein powder.
What ingredients do I need?
The basic ingredients you’ll need are:
- A plant-based protein source like pea protein, rice protein or hemp protein powder. Look for an unsweetened powder with at least 15-20 grams of protein per scoop.
- A natural sweetener such as stevia, monk fruit sweetener or dates. Only use a little, to taste.
- Healthy fats from ingredients like flax seeds, chia seeds, coconut flour or coconut oil. Fats help make the powder creamy and help you absorb the nutrients.
- Extras (optional) like cocoa powder, cinnamon or turmeric for extra flavor and nutrition.
- A high-powered blender. A regular blender won’t be able to grind all the ingredients into a fine powder.
How do I make the powder?
Simply combine all the ingredients in your blender and blend on high for several minutes until a smooth and creamy powder forms. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender a few times. Store your homemade powder in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How much does it cost to make?
The cost will depend on the specific ingredients you choose, but you can expect to pay between $30 to $60 to make a batch that will last you for weeks or months. The bulk of the cost comes from the plant-based protein powder. The other ingredients are very inexpensive.
What makes a good powder?
A high-quality powder will contain a blend of plant-based proteins, healthy fats like flax or chia seeds, natural sweeteners and extras for nutrition. Look for powders with a balanced macro profile of protein, carbs and fat. Avoid powders high in sugar, artificial or inflammatory ingredients. The powder should be creamy, blend well into recipes and not have a gritty or chalky texture.
Can I flavor the powder?
Yes, you can add natural flavors and spices to create flavored protein powders. Some ideas include:
- Cocoa or chocolate: Add cacao powder, cocoa powder and a bit of stevia.
- Vanilla: Add vanilla extract or vanilla bean powder and stevia.
- Cinnamon roll: Add cinnamon, nutmeg and stevia.
- Mocha: Add coffee grounds, cocoa powder and stevia.
- Berry: Add freeze-dried berries and stevia.
Have fun experimenting with flavors and enjoy your homemade plant-based protein powder! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Conclusion
You now have all the ingredients and steps to make your own plant-based protein powder at home. Mix and match ingredients to create a powder that suits your specific needs and tastes. Store your powder in an airtight container and enjoy for up to 3 months. Homemade protein powder is so rewarding—you control exactly what goes into it, you save money versus buying pre-made powders, and you gain a new kitchen skill. Making your own protein powder is empowering and can inspire you to experiment with other DIY health foods. One small habit change in the kitchen can have a big impact on your wellbeing and the planet. You’ve got this! Blend up a new batch of plant-based protein powder and enjoy. Your body and the environment will thank you.
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