Ensure drinks are well-known for providing essential nutrients, making them an excellent option for meal replacement, weight gain, or boosting energy levels. While store-bought versions are convenient, making your own Ensure drink at home allows you to customize the ingredients, control sugar levels, and enhance its nutritional value. This homemade Ensure drink recipe is packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, making it perfect for seniors, individuals recovering from illness, or anyone needing extra nutrition.
How to Make this Drink
Creating a homemade Ensure drink is simple and requires blending nutrient-rich ingredients together to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. You can adjust the ingredients to meet specific dietary needs, such as adding more protein, reducing sugar, or using dairy-free alternatives.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 medium banana
- 2 tablespoons peanut
- 1 scoop protein powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon flax seeds or chia seeds
- ½ cup ice cubes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Gather all ingredients and ensure they are fresh.
- Blend: In a blender, combine milk, Greek yogurt, banana, peanut butter, protein powder, honey, vanilla extract, and flaxseeds or chia seeds.
- Adjust consistency: Add ice cubes and blend again for a thicker texture. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more milk.
- Taste test: Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or vanilla extract if needed.
- Serve immediately: Pour into a glass and enjoy fresh for the best flavor and nutrient retention.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled in a tall glass for a refreshing and creamy drink.
- Pour into a travel bottle for an on-the-go meal replacement.
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.
- Pair with whole-grain toast or a handful of nuts for a balanced meal.
- Use as a post-workout recovery drink by adding extra protein.
Tips and Variations
- Dairy-Free Option: Use almond, soy, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
- Higher Calorie Version: Add avocado or extra nut butter for more healthy fats.
- Weight Loss Variation: Use unsweetened almond milk and reduce added sweeteners.
- Chocolate Flavor: Blend in 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder for a rich taste.
- Berry Boost: Add strawberries or blueberries for additional antioxidants.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 large glass
Nutrition Information
- Calories: ~350-450 kcal
- Protein: ~20-30g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Fat: ~12-18g
- Fiber: ~6g
- Sugar: ~15g
Ingredient Substitutes
- Use coconut milk for a tropical twist.
- Swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter.
- Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener for a low-carb option.
- Use silken tofu instead of Greek yogurt for a dairy-free protein boost.
- Add oat flour for extra fiber and thickness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I store the homemade Ensure drink for later?
Yes, you can store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but it’s best consumed fresh for maximum nutrition.
Is this drink suitable for diabetics?
You can make it diabetes-friendly by using unsweetened almond milk, skipping the honey, and adding fiber-rich ingredients like flaxseeds.
Can I make this drink without protein powder?
Yes, Greek yogurt, nut butter, and seeds provide natural protein, but adding protein powder increases the nutritional value.
Is this good for weight gain?
Yes, this drink is high in calories and nutrients, making it a great option for healthy weight gain.
Can I make this drink vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk, dairy-free yogurt, and a vegan protein powder.
Conclusion
Making a homemade Ensure drink is a simple, nutritious, and cost-effective way to enjoy a well-balanced meal replacement. Whether you’re looking to gain weight, supplement your diet, or simply enjoy a delicious, nutrient-packed shake, this recipe can be easily customized to fit your needs. Give it a try and enjoy the benefits of a healthy, homemade Ensure drink.
Ensure Drink Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients
Prepare the ingredients: Gather all ingredients and ensure they are fresh.Blend
Blend: In a blender, combine milk, Greek yogurt, banana, peanut butter, protein powder, honey, vanilla extract, and flaxseeds or chia seeds.Adjust consistency
Adjust consistency: Add ice cubes and blend again for a thicker texture. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more milk.Taste test
Taste test: Adjust sweetness by adding more honey or vanilla extract if needed.Serve immediately
Serve immediately: Pour into a glass and enjoy fresh for the best flavor and nutrient retention.
