The Pint Lab · Tested & Ranked

Best Protein Powders at Target for the Ninja Creami
Target carries a selection of protein powders from popular brands, though the lineup differs from what you'd find on Amazon or at Costco. Sizes tend to run smaller — you'll often find individual sample packs or standard tubs rather than bulk bags. We tested every Target protein powder using our standard base recipe and ranked them by taste, texture, and macros. Here's what's actually worth picking up.
See how every powder ranks
Filter by flavor, sort by score, calories, or protein — all 50+ powders tested with the same recipe.
The Best Protein Powders at Target for Ninja Creami

Levels
Vanilla Bean
Elite
363
Cal / Pint
46g
Protein / Pint
9.6
Score
Shockingly close to real vanilla ice cream — clearly top-tier compared to most vanilla powders. It's the rare "actually craveable" vanilla, and a perfect base when you want classic ice-cream vibes without needing mix-ins (although still lethal with Oreo thins). I cannot get enough of this vanilla base flavor.
FlavCity
Butter Coffee
Elite
403
Cal / Pint
47g
Protein / Pint
9.1
Score
Strong, smooth, rich coffee flavor. Almost emotional-level good, although one major downside is the caffeine - ice cream is an any time of day treat. Would absolutely buy again for the favor alone.

FlavCity
Berries and Cream
Solid
413
Cal / Pint
47g
Protein / Pint
7.2
Score
This Berries and Cream powder offers a smooth texture and balanced sweetness in a Creami pint. The berry flavor is subtle, with a noticeable coconut undertone from the coconut milk powder. It's a solid choice for those who prefer a less dominant berry profile.

FlavCity
Vanilla
Solid
393
Cal / Pint
47g
Protein / Pint
7.0
Score
This offering presents an excellent Creami texture and a generally pleasant flavor profile. However, a distinct banana undertone detracts from its suitability as a foundational vanilla ice cream. While better unadulterated vanilla options exist, this product performs well for those who appreciate a prominent banana note.

Clean Simple Eats
Simply Vanilla
Solid
343
Cal / Pint
42g
Protein / Pint
6.3
Score
This Simply Vanilla powder offers favorable macros and a clean, albeit subdued, vanilla flavor suitable for a Creami base. The vanilla note is mild, making it less impactful on its own. It functions best as a neutral canvas for robust mix-ins, such as crushed cookies or a strong fruit swirl, to enhance the overall profile.

Optimum Nutrition
Vanilla Ice Cream
Solid
353
Cal / Pint
46g
Protein / Pint
6.2
Score
The texture is passable, but the vanilla profile lacks depth for a full serving. Its ingredient list includes artificial components, and superior alternatives are available. This product is not worth a repeat purchase.
How We Test
Every powder on this list has been tested using the same base recipe — one scoop, 375g Fairlife 2% milk, erythritol, non-fat milk powder, vanilla extract, and xanthan gum — spun in a Ninja Creami on the Ice Cream setting. Scores reflect taste (35%), texture (35%), macro efficiency (15%), and whether we'd buy a full tub (15%). Rankings update automatically as new powders are tested.
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to see all 50+ powders we've tested?
Sort by score, calories, protein, or macros efficiency
View Full Rankings →