Do you know what the worst part of working out during the summer is? Having to cool down in the sticky humid air, and not cooling down nearly quick enough. It seems like no matter how long you’re keeping that big ol’ jug of protein shake in the fridge, it’s simply not cutting it. But don’t sweat it because there is an easy and delicious solution to this. Turn your protein shakes into ice pops!

The obvious thing to do is to cool down with something colder than cold. And protein popsicles will not only give you the nutrition you need, but also the enjoyment of having a well-deserved dessert after a hard workout. Not to mention the wide variety of flavour options and combinations will really make you feel like you’re picking out your favourite at an ice cream shop.

Cool down with these powder protein ice pops.

The steps to making protein powder ice pops are as easy as making the protein shakes themselves. Just blend everything together as you would, then pour the shake into a popsicle mould with a popsicle stick. Freeze for at least 6 hours.

1. Chocolate Coconut Popsicle

This may be easy, but it will surely satisfy your popsicle cravings. All you need are two scoops of chocolate-flavoured protein powder and 1 can of organic full-fat coconut milk.

2. Vanilla-and-Chocolate-Layered Popsicles

If you’re looking to make a bigger batch, this recipe is perfect. You will need to make two protein shakes: vanilla and chocolate. Add 1 cup unsweetened cashew milk, 2 scoops of vanilla protein powder, 1 banana, 2 dates, and a pinch of sea salt. Do the same for the chocolate shake by replacing the vanilla protein powder with chocolate protein powder. Pour the vanilla protein shake into the tray, filling every mould halfway, and fill up the remaining space with the chocolate shake.

3. Mango Cinnamon Popsicle

Mango is one of the ultimate tropical fruits, and pairs surprisingly well with a dash of cinnamon. Take 1 banana, 2 cups of mango, 2 scoops of unflavoured protein powder, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 2 cup almond milk, a dash of cinnamon. Blend until smooth, and pour the concoction into the mould, and enjoy a taste of the tropics after your workout.

4. Peanut Butter and Jelly Popsicle

Let’s be serious. There isn’t a more iconic duo than peanut butter and jelly. To make a peanut butter and jelly protein ice pops, you will need half a cup of peanut butter (or any nut butter of your choice), 1 cup plain yogurt, 1 cup milk, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 2 tsp vanilla extract, 1 1/2 raspberries or strawberries, and 2 cups of juice of your choice (preferably a berry). Blend everything except the fruit and juice, and pour them halfway into each mould. Then blend the fruit and juice together, to fill up the remaining space.

5. Orange Creamsicles

Nothing beats the refreshing taste of oranges. To make orange protein powder ice pops, you will need 1 scoop of protein powder, 1 cup of orange juice, 1 can of full-fat coconut milk, 1 banana, 2 dates, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Blend up the ingredients, and fill up the ice pop moulds!

Have you tried protein powder ice pops in place of protein shakes? Share with us your best recipes and your experiences making them!