Are You Wondering How to Make Protein Shakes Thicker?

📌 Overview and Key Takeaways

This is a Dietitian’s guide on how to make protein shakes thicker.

Here are a few easy ways to thicken your protein shake.

Last Updated
Jan 22, 2026

Author and Medical Reviewer

Written by Jack, Founder

Jack is the Founder of Drink Wholesome.

Medically reviewed by Brittany, MS, RD and Jenn, PA-C

Kayla is a Registered Dietitian with a MS in Nutrition.

Jennifer is a Physician Assistant with a BA in Nutritional Sciences.

How to Thicken Protein Shakes

There are two types of protein shakes: ready-to-drink (store-bought) protein shakes and homemade protein shakes made with protein powder.

If you prefer thick protein shakes, make your own protein shakes with Protein Powder.

This will give you control over the consistency as long as you have a good blender.

Now, without further ado, here are a few easy ways to thicken your protein shake:

1. Use less liquid. The less liquid you use, the thicker your protein shake will be. Just keep in mind that if you use too little liquid, you may wind up with a smoothie bowl. Although this is not necessarily a bad thing, you will have to eat it with a spoon!
2. Use milk. If you prefer thick protein shakes, use milk instead of water. Any type of milk will do, but if you want a milkshake consistency, I recommend using whole milk or coconut milk.
3. Use frozen fruit. Adding frozen banana or berries to a protein shake is one of the easiest ways to thicken it.
4. Add ice. As long as you have a good blender, adding a handful of ice cubes is another easy way to make your protein shake thicker. Ice melts quickly, however, so if you do not drink your shake right away, adding ice will make it more watery.
5. Add avocado. Although it might sound weird, adding a ripe avocado to your smoothie will give it a rich, creamy consistency.
6. Add nut butter. Due to its high fat content, a tablespoon of creamy peanut or almond butter will make your protein shake thicker.
7. Add oats. Oats contain a soluble fiber called beta-glucan. When blended with liquid, this fiber dissolves and creates a gel-like substance, giving your shake a thicker, creamier texture.
8. Add chia seeds. 1-2 tablespoons of chia seeds will instantly thicken up a protein shake due to their soluble fiber content.

It is worth adding some people recommend using xanthan or guar gum to thicken a protein shake.

I DO NOT recommend doing this as xanthan and guar gum are notorious for causing painful digestive issues, even in small amounts.

Finally, if all else fails, you might want to consider switching the brand of protein powder you use.

Editorial Guidelines

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This article was written by a Registered Dietitian and reviewed by a Physician Assistant. We rely on peer-reviewed research and trusted medical sources, and regularly update our content to ensure accuracy and clarity.