Some days I want the comfort of a chai latte, but I also want something cold and filling. That’s where this vanilla bean chai protein shake comes in: warm chai spices, creamy vanilla, and enough ice to make it feel like a treat.

I’m particular about vanilla. Vanilla bean has the soft, rich flavor I want here, and vanilla soy milk makes the shake creamy without needing yogurt or a banana. The chai brings the spice; the protein powder makes it more satisfying.

What You’ll Need

• ¾ cup vanilla soy milk
• ½ cup TAZO chai tea concentrate OR chai powder of your choice
• 1 scoop vanilla bean protein powder
• 1 cup ice
• A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, optional

How to Make It

Add the soy milk, chai concentrate, protein powder, and ice to a blender. Blend until smooth. Taste before pouring: chai concentrates vary, so you may want a little more soy milk if yours is sweet or a little more chai if you want a stronger spice flavor. Sprinkle cinnamon on top if you like.

For an even creamier shake, freeze some vanilla soy milk in an ice-cube tray and use those cubes in place of part of the ice.

This is the kind of drink I’d make when I need a pause in the afternoon—a few minutes to blend something good, pour it into a favorite glass, and enjoy the chai instead of rushing past it.

Recipe note: Check your chai concentrate and protein powder labels if you need the shake to meet a particular dietary requirement.