Red Velvet Cheesecake Protein Shake

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Recently, I’ve been really in the spirit of trying new things. I just realized that life’s too short to get the same milkshake flavor every time I go to Cookout type thing, ya know? ​That flavor you never even considered before may actually delight you… you neverrrrr knowwww. So I’ve applied this mindset to everything I do in life now basically, BUT before I started thinking this way, I was the exact opposite and would always go for the option I knew would never disappoint.

And you know what never disappoints? Red velvet cheesecake… specifically at The Cheesecake Factory. Out of their 1,345,657 cheesecake options, for my entire life up until recently, that is the only one I would get, and honestly, I have no shame in that because it is a very quality choice lol.

And just like that slice of cheesecake, this Red Velvet Cheesecake Protein Shake could also never disappoint. It is just one of them onesssss. Who even knew it was possible for a protein shake to taste so good? For something “healthy” to taste so good? Sike, I knew, but if you didn’t, now you know!

I feel like I’m just talking at this point though, so let’s get into the recipe before I end up writing a book about a simple protein shake.

Why You Need This in Your Life

1. Dessert-Inspired Flavor – It’s red velvet cake and cheesecake in drinkable form. Need I say more?

2. High Protein – A protein-packed shake that actually tastes like dessert? Yes, please.

3. Customizable – Whether you want to keep it simple or add your own twists (chocolate cake instead?), this recipe has you covered.

4. Easy to Make – Minimal effort for maximum payoff.

5. Just Beautiful – Seriously, this one’s as fun to look at as it is to drink.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cup Decoration (Optional)

• 1 tsp (5g) red velvet cake mix
• 1 tsp water

Cake Mix-In

• 30g red velvet cake mix
• 1 tbsp + 1 tsp water

Cheesecake Shake

• ¾ cup (170g) fat-free cottage cheese
• 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 15g vanilla protein powder
• 14g sugar-free cheesecake mix
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp stevia (or sweetener of choice, to taste)
• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

• Sugar-free whipped cream
• Graham cracker
• Red velvet cake crumbles

How to Make Your Red Velvet Cheesecake Protein Shake

Step 1: Decorate the Glass (Optional but Worth It!)

First things first—if you’re all about presentation, you’ll want to rim your glass.

1. In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon (5g) of red velvet cake mix with 1 teaspoon of water until smooth.

2. Using the back of a spoon, spread the mixture along the inside of your glass to create a fun, decorative swirl.

3. Place the glass in the freezer while you continue with the rest of the recipe.

Step 2: Make the Cake Mix-In

Next up is the cake, which gives this shake that true red velvet experience.

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 30g of red velvet cake mix with 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of water. Mix until smooth.

2. Microwave the mixture for 30–45 seconds, checking at the 30-second mark to avoid overcooking.

3. Once it’s cooked, pop the bowl in the freezer to cool while you move on to the shake.

Step 3: Blend the Shake

Now for the main event—the creamy, dreamy base.

1. In a blender, combine the cottage cheese, almond milk, vanilla protein powder, sugar-free cheesecake mix, vanilla extract, stevia, and a pinch of salt.

2. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. No lumps allowed!

Step 4: Assemble the Shake

1. Grab your decorated glass from the freezer and pour the blended shake into it.

2. Take the cooled red velvet cake, crumble it and add it into the shake, stirring gently to distribute the cake bits throughout. (Pro tip: Reserve a few crumbles for topping!)

3. If you’re feeling extra, top the shake with sugar-free whipped cream, a graham cracker, and the reserved cake crumbles.

Enjoy!

That’s it—you’re ready to dive into the most luxurious protein shake ever. Whether you sip it slowly or dive straight in with a spoon, this Red Velvet Cheesecake Protein Shake is about to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

Customization Options

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. Here are a few ways you can customize your shake:

• Switch the Cake Mix – Red velvet is iconic, but you could swap it for chocolate, vanilla, or even funfetti for a totally different vibe.
• Adjust the Cheesecake Flavor – Want it super cheesecake-y? Add a little more sugar-free cheesecake mix or even a drop of cheesecake extract.
• Alternative Toppings – Try adding crushed cookies, chocolate chips, or a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup for an extra treat.
• Different Milks – Use any milk you like! Almond milk keeps it light, but oat milk or regular milk works just as well.
• Extra Aesthetic Points – For the ultimate dessert experience, add a swirl of marshmallow fluff or a few sprinkles on top.

More Cake Inspired Recipes

• Ooey Gooey Butter Cake Protein Ice Cream
• Red Velvet Cake Protein Ice Cream
• Strawberry Cake Batter Protein Shake

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different protein powder?

Absolutely! Any vanilla-flavored protein powder will work here. Just make sure it blends well for a smooth texture.

Do I have to use cottage cheese?

Nope! Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you’re not a fan of cottage cheese. It’ll still give you that creamy base and pack in the protein.

Is the cake mix safe to eat raw?

The small amount used for decorating is fine, but if you’re concerned, you can heat-treat the mix in the microwave before using.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can make the cake mix-in ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the shake fresh for the best texture.

What’s the best way to get the cake crumbles evenly mixed?

Gently stir them into the shake with a spoon to avoid breaking them up too much. You want those pops of red velvet in every sip!

AAANNNDDDDDD..

There you have it! This shake is indulgence reimagined, and I promise it’s just as good as it sounds. Try it out, and let me know how you like it!