Apple of My Chai Protein Shake
I am so excited to share my first recipe featuring my autumn-inspired tea blend, Apple of My Chai!
As an herbal enthusiast and tea lover, I’m always looking for ways to incorporate botanicals beyond the average warm mug. I’ve experimented with adding herbal infusions to juices, soups, and even my morning smoothies. This shake has become a staple post-workout drink for the cooler months.
With sweet and tart apples like fuji, gala, and honeycrisp in peak season, there’s no better time to try this. Be sure to grab the Apple of My Chai tea blend at Spice Pot Kitchen Apothecary and let’s get blending!
Servings: 1-2 | Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
Tea concentrate
4 cups water
1 tbsp Apple of My Chai tea blend
Stewed Apples
4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 pinch of salt
The Shake
1 cup of tea concentrate
1/2 of milk (dairy or plant based)
1/3 cup stewed apples
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
1 pinch ground cinnamon
* Cooking Tips: When stewing apples, have extra water on the side.
*Fiber Boost: Add a tablespoon of flax or chia seeds into the blender for extra nutrients.
*Customize Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter shake, add a little coconut sugar while stewing the apples or drizzle honey or agave at the very end.
Method:
The Tea Concentrate
Combine the tea blend and water in a kettle or pot and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, remove from heat and let it steep for at least 15 minutes (steep longer for a bolder flavor). Pour into a heat-safe container and refrigerate until cool.
The Stewed Apples
Add a tablespoon of water to a medium saucepan over high heat. Once the water boils, reduce heat to medium-low and add your apple slices.
Add another splash of water, cover, and steam for a few minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure an even cook.
Sprinkle in the cinnamon and salt, stirring well. If the pan looks dry, add a touch more water to prevent burning.
Once the apples are fork-tender, remove from heat and let them cool in the fridge.
The Shake
Combine the chilled tea concentrate, milk, stewed apples, and protein powder in a blender.
Blend on medium-high until completely smooth. Pour into a glass and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.