7 Best Optimum Nutrition Flavor You Must Try in 2023
By Evander Nelson | Updated on June 23, 2023
Delicious Strawberry
Evander’s Quick Summary 💭
🥁 Drumroll, please! 🥁
After extensive taste-testing and pondering, I’m excited to announce that the best-tasting Optimum Nutrition flavor is Delicious Strawberry 🎉
The taste is simply sublime.
Believe me, I’ve been around the protein powder block, and finding an Optimum Nutrition flavor that doesn’t remind you of chalk or an experiment gone wrong is like finding a needle in a haystack.
Delicious Strawberry is the scrumptious exception. It’s fruity, refreshing, and genuinely tastes like you’re sipping on a summertime treat.
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You’re standing in front of a wall of Optimum Nutrition protein powders, eyes darting from one tub to another, feeling overwhelmed by the abundance of flavors. 😲
I’ve been there too, my fellow flavor-seekers. But fear not, for I have embarked on a delicious quest to discover the best Optimum Nutrition flavors and save you from the agony of indecision.
The sweaty gym sessions, the endless reps, and the never-ending protein shake taste tests – I’ve done it all for the love of fitness (and let’s be honest because I’m a bit of an Optimum Nutrition flavor nerd 🤓).
So, get ready to embark on a flavorful journey as I reveal the fruits of my labor and help you find the one that will make your taste buds beg for more.
Top things I look for when reviewing an Optimum Nutrition Flavor
| Flavor Profile | Needs to be balanced, healthy and flavorful |
| Sweetness | Sweet but not too sweet |
| Aftertaste | No chalky aftertaste |
| Texture | Needs to disolve good, even in water |
What Exactly is an Optimum Nutrition Flavor?
Optimum Nutrition flavor refers to the various taste options available for the Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey Protein Powder.
These flavors are designed to satisfy a range of taste buds, making it easier and more enjoyable to consume the protein-rich supplement.
From classic options like vanilla and chocolate to adventurous ones like mocha cappuccino chocolate peanut butter, or even the famous banana cream flavor, Optimum Nutrition offers more than 20 flavors to choose from.
What is The Best Optimum Nutrition Flavor?
My Top Rankings
#1 Delicious Strawberry – Best Overall
Flavor Profile
Sweetness
Aftertaste
Texture
Flavor Profile
The Delicious Strawberry flavor of Optimum Nutrition’s whey protein is like biting into a fresh, ripe strawberry. 🍓
It’s a perfect blend of natural sweetness with a subtle tartness that keeps you coming back for more.
It’s not too overwhelming and goes well with many different mix-ins, such as almond milk or yogurt.
The first time I tried it was actually during cutting season, and just like many protein powders, I had low hopes for the taste when mixing it with water.
I’ve never been so wrong…
This is, without doubt, the best Optimum Nutrition flavor when it comes to mixing it with water.
Sweetness
The sweetness level of Delicious Strawberry is just right—not too sweet and not too bland.
It strikes the perfect balance, which is essential when you’re trying to enjoy your protein shake without feeling like you’re diving headfirst into a sugary treat.
I do believe it is a bit too sweet to drink multiple on one day and would suggest buying an additional Optimum Nutrition flavor to keep some variation in your protein shakes.
Aftertaste
What sets Delicious Strawberry apart from other Optimum Nutrition flavors is the absence of a chalky aftertaste.
Instead, you’re left with a pleasant, natural strawberry flavor that lingers, it really made me save every sip of each shake. 🤤
Texture
The texture of Delicious Strawberry protein powder is smooth and mixes well with liquids. It doesn’t clump or get gritty, ensuring that every shake you make is consistently creamy and enjoyable.
In fact, I tested mixing a full scoop of the Delicious Strawberry flavor with just a small glass of water, and it dissolved perfectly.
Tech Specs
| Protein Percentage of Calories | 48% |
| Carbohydrate Percentage of Calories | 1% |
| Fat Percentage of Calories | 2% |
| Serving Size | 31 grams |
| Price Per Serving | $1.18 |
Evander’s take:
I absolutely adore the Delicious Strawberry flavor because it’s a delightful break from the traditional vanilla and chocolate (milk) protein powders.
It’s like a little taste of summer in every shake, and it never gets old.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for the best Optimum Nutrition flavor, you’ve just found it.
With its authentic strawberry taste, just-right sweetness, and smooth texture, it’s a protein powder that stands out from the crowd. 👌🏻
Whether you’re new to protein powders or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate the refreshing change of pace that Delicious Strawberry brings to your daily routine.
#2 Extreme Milk Chocolate – Best Protein Milkshake
Flavor Profile
Sweetness
Aftertaste
Texture
Flavor Profile
To be honest, I am not a big chocolate fan but DAMNNN, Extreme Milk Chocolate, I love you! ❤️
When talking about the best Optimum Nutrition flavor, Extreme Milk Chocolate just can’t be skipped. It is rich and creamy, and every chocolate lover’s dream comes true.
It tastes like a blend of my favorite chocolate bar and a glass of cold milk, making it perfect for those days when I am craving something sweet but still need my protein fix.
Sweetness
The sweetness of Extreme Milk Chocolate is spot on. It’s sweet enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without being overpowering.
It truly lives up to its “extreme” name, offering a chocolate milk flavor experience that can make any chocolate fan swoon. 🍫
Aftertaste
The aftertaste of Extreme Milk Chocolate is pleasantly chocolatey, without any hint of artificial or chemical flavors.
It leaves a velvety, satisfying finish that makes you want to lick the blender clean. (Not that I’ve ever done that, of course…)
Texture
The texture of Extreme Milk Chocolate protein powder is smooth and creamy, blending effortlessly with milk, fruit, yogurt, and even water.
It’s like drinking a milkshake, minus the guilt🥛
Tech Specs
| Protein Percentage of Calories | 48% |
| Carbohydrate Percentage of Calories | 1% |
| Fat Percentage of Calories | 12 |
| Serving Size | 31 grams |
| Price Per Serving | $1.18 |
Evander’s take:
As I mentioned before, I am no chocoholic, but even I can’t get enough of Optimum Nutrition’s Extreme Milk Chocolate flavor.
It’s a fantastic way to indulge my chocolate flavor cravings while still getting my daily protein intake.
I would recommend this one to everyone that loves milkshakes since there is no better word to describe this protein shake than that. 👌🏻
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
If you’re a chocolate lover searching for the best Optimum Nutrition flavor, give Extreme Milk Chocolate a try.
Its rich, creamy taste and satisfying texture make it a delicious choice for your protein shake.
Whether you’re new to protein powders or an experienced user, this Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard whey protein flavor is sure to make your taste buds happy.
#3 Vanilla Ice Cream – Best Classic
Flavor Profile
Sweetness
Aftertaste
Texture
Flavor Profile
Vanilla Ice Cream is the classic, timeless Optimum Nutrition flavor that never disappoints.
Imagine the taste of a rich, velvety scoop of premium vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got the essence of this protein powder. 😻
This Optimum Nutrition whey protein vanilla flavor is versatile and pairs well with almost anything (including my favorite protein pancakes), making it a staple in my protein powder collection.
Sweetness
The sweetness of Vanilla Ice Cream is subtle and didn’t really overpower me.
It’s got just the right amount of sweetness if you ask me. Perfect for athletes who prefer a milder taste in their protein shakes.
Aftertaste
The aftertaste of Optimum Nutrition’s Vanilla Ice Cream is pleasant and leaves a lingering vanilla essence that’s reminiscent of a perfect summer day spent indulging in a delicious frozen treat.
It’s a comforting Optimum Nutrition whey protein flavor that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself, even when you’re not.
Texture
The texture of vanilla Ice Cream protein powder is smooth and creamy. I tested it with milk, which dissolved nicely. 🥛
I have no doubt the texture of the protein powder is just as good when you mix it with other options.
Tech Specs
| Protein Percentage of Calories | 48% |
| Carbohydrate Percentage of Calories | 1% |
| Fat Percentage of Calories | 2% |
| Serving Size | 31 grams |
| Price Per Serving | $1.07 |
Evander’s take:
I’m a big fan of the Vanilla Ice Cream flavor because of its versatility and subtle sweetness.🍦
It’s a great base for customizing my protein shakes with different mix-ins, and it never gets boring.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
Vanilla Ice Cream is a must-try Optimum Nutrition flavor, and I highly recommend it for folks who appreciate the classics.
It’s subtle sweetness and creamy texture make it a delightful choice for protein shakes or even incorporation into recipes.
Whether you’re new to protein powders or a seasoned user, you can’t go wrong with this versatile, delicious whey protein powder option.
#4 Strawberry Banana – Best Summer Flavor
Flavor Profile
Sweetness
Aftertaste
Texture
Flavor Profile
Strawberry Banana is an Optimum Nutrition flavor that transports you straight to a tropical paradise. 🏝
It’s a delightful combination of ripe strawberries and creamy bananas that creates a harmonious and refreshing taste.
Whenever I drink this Optimum Nutrition flavor, I feel like I’m on a beach, sipping a fruity smoothie while soaking up some sun.
It is one of my favorite gold-standard whey protein powder flavors for the summer.
Sweetness
The sweetness of Strawberry Banana is just right—not overly sugary but still pleasantly sweet.
It’s a delicate balance between the natural sweetness of strawberries and the creaminess of bananas that makes this Optimum Nutrition flavor so satisfying.
Aftertaste
The aftertaste of Strawberry Banana is delightful and leaves you with a fruity, tropical sensation on your palate.
It’s like a gentle reminder of the sunny vacation you’ve been daydreaming about during your workout. 💭
Texture
The aftertaste of Strawberry Banana is delightful and leaves you with a fruity, tropical sensation on your palate.
It’s like a gentle reminder of the sunny vacation you’ve been daydreaming about during your workout.
Tech Specs
| Protein Percentage of Calories | 48% |
| Carbohydrate Percentage of Calories | 1% |
| Fat Percentage of Calories | 1% |
| Serving Size | 30 grams |
| Price Per Serving | $1.11 |
Evander’s take:
I genuinely enjoy Optimum Nutrition’s Strawberry Banana flavor because it’s a refreshing change from the more traditional protein powder flavors. 🍌
The fruity combination adds a touch of brightness to my daily protein shake, making it feel like a treat rather than a chore.
Just like the Delicious Strawberry flavor, I do think this one is too sweet to take multiple times in one day. I would recommend switching it up with another Optimum Nutrition flavor.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
Strawberry Banana is an excellent Optimum Nutrition flavor if you are looking to add some tropical flair to your protein shakes. I found it extremely refreshing, with a fruity flavor, and creamy texture. It’s a delightful option that’s perfect for post-workout recovery or a mid-day pick-me-up.#5 Double Rich Chocolate – Best Chocolate
Flavor Profile
Sweetness
Aftertaste
Texture
Flavor Profile
When I bought the Double Rich Chocolate, I knew it wasn’t going to be my favorite since I am not a big chocolate chugger.
However, I must confess that the Double Rich Cholate Optimum Nutrition flavor feels like diving into a pool of velvety, luxurious chocolate and swimming in its richness. 🍫
It is just perfect for the serious chocoholics out there.
I appreciate how this Optimum Nutrition flavor manages to capture the essence of a high-quality chocolate dessert, making it one of the best whey protein powders whenever I want to switch things up.
Sweetness
The sweetness of Double Rich Chocolate is okay. But, as I said, I am not a huge chocolate fan.
It feels like it is just the right amount to satiate your chocolate cravings while still feeling like you’re making a healthy choice.
Aftertaste
The aftertaste of Double Rich Chocolate is where it really shines. It lingers on your taste buds like a chocolate truffle that’s melting in your mouth. 🤤
It’s a full-bodied, rich flavor experience that leaves you feeling like you’ve just indulged in a gourmet chocolate treat.
Texture
The texture of Double Rich Chocolate protein powder is smooth and creamy, mixing well with liquids to create a velvety shake that’s truly a pleasure to drink.
Tech Specs
| Protein Percentage of Calories | 46% |
| Carbohydrate Percentage of Calories | 1% |
| Fat Percentage of Calories | 2% |
| Serving Size | 30.4 grams |
| Price Per Serving | $1.07 |
Evander’s take:
Optimum Nutrition’s Double Rich Chocolate flavor is great to have in my arsenal to switch things up now and then, but honestly, I would get sick of it if I had to take it daily. 🤷🏽♂️
On the flip side, if you are a chocoholic, I cannot recommend this Optimum Nutrition flavor enough.
This Optimum Nutrition flavor is rich and indulgent, making it an ideal choice when you want to treat yourself while still fueling your body with high-quality protein.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
Double Rich Chocolate is an exceptional Optimum Nutrition flavor for those seeking a genuinely indulgent chocolate experience.
Its rich taste, balanced sweetness, and creamy texture make it a must-try for anyone who loves chocolate.
Give it a whirl, and you may just find yourself falling in love with this luxurious treat that also happens to be a protein powerhouse.
#6 French Vanilla Creme – Best Vanilla
Flavor Profile
Sweetness
Aftertaste
Texture
Flavor Profile
C’est très savoureux! Translation: it tastes delicious!
French Vanilla Crème is a delightful Optimum Nutrition flavor that adds a touch of elegance to your protein shake.
With its rich, creamy taste and hint of vanilla, it’s like sipping on a fancy dessert at a Parisian café.
Whenever I drink this flavor, I can almost hear the distant sound of an accordion playing in the background.
Sweetness
The sweetness of French Vanilla Crème is just right—not too overpowering, but enough to satisfy your sweet tooth.
It’s a subtle indulgence that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself to something special.
Aftertaste
The aftertaste of French Vanilla Crème leaves a pleasant, smooth vanilla flavor lingering on your taste buds.
It’s like a warm embrace from your favorite dessert, reminding you of the good times spent with friends and family.
Texture
The texture of French Vanilla Crème is silky and smooth, making it easy to mix with your favorite liquids.
It creates a luscious, velvety shake that feels like a treat rather than a chore.
Tech Specs
| Protein Percentage of Calories | 48% |
| Carbohydrate Percentage of Calories | 1% |
| Fat Percentage of Calories | 2% |
| Serving Size | 31 grams |
| Price Per Serving | $1.07 |
Evander’s take:
This is probably one of the best Optimum Nutrition vanilla flavors I have ever tried. In fact, it is the best whey protein vanilla flavor I have ever tried! 💯
It really adds a sophisticated touch to my protein shake collection without being too overwhelming.
The flavor is rich and creamy, making it a delightful option for those days when I want to indulge without going overboard.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
French Vanilla Creme is the best flavor if you are looking to add a touch of luxury to your protein shake.
With its elegant flavor profile, balanced sweetness, and smooth texture, it’s a delightful option for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
If you’re seeking a protein powder that makes you feel like you’re indulging in a gourmet dessert, make a couple vanilla flavored protein shakes with this powder and you are good to go.
#7 Rocky Road – Best Bold Flavor
Flavor Profile
Sweetness
Aftertaste
Texture
Flavor Profile
Rocky Road is a fun and adventurous Optimum Nutrition Whey Protein flavor that takes you on a tasty journey. ⛰
With a delightful blend of chocolate, marshmallow, and almonds, it’s like having your favorite ice cream in a protein shake form.
Whenever I have this flavor, I feel like I’m on a desert expedition, finding sweet treasures in every sip.
Sweetness
I’ve tried many of the Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard flavors, but I must say, the sweetness of Rocky Road stands out.
It’s perfectly balanced—not too overpowering, but enough to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The combination of chocolate malt and marshmallow flavors creates a delightful taste without overwhelming your palate.
Aftertaste
The aftertaste of Rocky Road is truly noteworthy.
It leaves a pleasant, chocolaty flavor lingering on your taste buds, which is rare for protein shakes.
Most protein powders have a chalky or bitter aftertaste, but Rocky Road manages to maintain its dessert-like qualities from start to finish.
Texture
One thing I’ve observed about Rocky Road is its smooth and creamy texture.
The almonds provide a subtle crunch, adding an interesting contrast to the shake’s consistency.
It’s not gritty like some protein powders can be, making it enjoyable to drink and easier to mix into your favorite recipes.
Tech Specs
| Protein Percentage of Calories | 48% |
| Carbohydrate Percentage of Calories | 1% |
| Fat Percentage of Calories | 2% |
| Serving Size | $1.11 |
| Price Per Serving | $1.11 |
Evander’s take:
As a self-proclaimed protein shake connoisseur, I must say Rocky Road has won me over. 💯
The unique blend of chocolate, marshmallow, and almond flavors makes it a standout choice in the sea of vanilla and chocolate options.
It’s like having a delicious dessert that fuels your body with essential amino acids.
Pros
Cons
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Rocky Road is an innovative and scrumptious Optimum Nutrition Whey protein flavor.
It offers a perfect balance of sweetness, a pleasant aftertaste, and a smooth texture, making it a perfect match for your wildest fitness goals.
With its dessert-like qualities and nutritional benefits, Rocky Road is a must-try flavor for those looking to add some excitement to their protein shake routine.