Core Power is a high-protein chocolate milk shake that relies on artificial sweeteners (acesulfame potassium, sucralose) and industrial thickeners (carrageenan, cellulose gum) for texture. Fortunately, it contains no seed oils. The DIY version uses organic milk, clean plant protein, and natural monk fruit/stevia sweeteners to achieve the same 26g protein per serving without artificial additives.
Based on: Core Power High Protein Milk Shake
· Makes approximately 24 servings (10 liters)
· Serving: 414ml (about 1.75 cups)
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial Core Power High Protein Milk Shake from fairlife often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original Core Power High Protein Milk Shake may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Ingredients
Organic whole milk
8.5L (about 9 quarts) · Organic Valley Whole Milk
Provides the creamy base, natural milk proteins, and healthy saturated fats for satiety
Organic plant protein powder
360g (about 12 scoops) · Garden of Life Raw Organic Protein Vanilla
Boosts protein content from 14g to 26g per serving without artificial additives
Natural thickener and stabilizer, replaces carrageenan and cellulose gum
Organic vanilla extract
15ml (1 tablespoon) · Simply Organic Pure Vanilla Extract
Rounds out the chocolate flavor profile naturally
Instructions
Step 1. Start with 2 liters of cold organic whole milk in a large mixing bowl or blender pitcher. The milk should be well-chilled (35-40°F) for best texture and to prevent protein powder clumping. If using a standard blender, you'll need to work in smaller batches of about 2-3 liters at a time.
Step 2. In a separate small bowl, thoroughly whisk together the organic cocoa powder (120g), monk fruit sweetener (60g), stevia extract (2g), and xanthan gum (12g). This dry-blending step is crucial — xanthan gum and cocoa powder both tend to form stubborn clumps if added directly to liquid. Whisk vigorously for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is completely uniform with no visible lumps.
Step 3. Using an immersion blender or regular blender on medium speed, slowly incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the cold milk. Blend for 30 seconds, then add the organic protein powder (360g) gradually over 1-2 minutes while blending continuously. This prevents protein clumps that are difficult to dissolve later. The mixture should be completely smooth and creamy.
Step 4. Add the organic vanilla extract (15ml) and blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the shake is completely uniform and slightly frothy. The xanthan gum needs this high-speed blending to fully hydrate and create the thick, creamy texture that mimics commercial protein shakes. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed — remember it will taste less sweet when cold.
Step 5. Gradually blend in the remaining cold organic milk (6.5L) in batches, ensuring each addition is fully incorporated before adding more. The final mixture should be smooth, creamy, and have a rich chocolate color similar to the commercial version. If any lumps remain, strain through a fine-mesh sieve while transferring to storage containers.
Step 6. Pour into clean glass bottles or BPA-free containers, leaving about 1 inch of headspace for expansion. Refrigerate immediately and let the mixture rest for at least 2 hours before first use — this allows the xanthan gum to fully hydrate and the flavors to meld. The shake will continue to thicken slightly over the first 24 hours.
Step 7. Before each serving, shake or stir vigorously as natural separation will occur (unlike commercial versions with synthetic emulsifiers). Serve 414ml (about 1.75 cups) over ice for best texture. The shake should have a creamy, thick consistency similar to the original product. Use within 5-7 days for best quality and freshness.
Storage
Store in refrigerator at 35-40°F for up to 7 days. Natural separation will occur — always shake well before serving. Do not freeze as this will affect texture. Keep in original containers or transfer to glass bottles for best flavor preservation.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$1.60
Cost per serving (store-bought)$2.49
Savings36%
Higher upfront investment due to bulk organic ingredients, but most items (protein powder, sweeteners, thickeners) last for multiple batches. Long-term savings increase significantly with bulk purchasing. Quality improvement includes elimination of artificial sweeteners and industrial additives.