Chocolate Protein Shake

This Chocolate Protein Shake recipe is made with milk, frozen banana, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, and nut butter. It’s smooth and creamy and has a the perfect chocolate that makes it taste like a dessert but it’s great for a healthy breakfast or post-workout snack! 

this recipe

A Healthy Chocolate Protein Shake That Tastes Like Dessert

I’m working to include more protein in my diet, and while I love savory recipes like shredded chicken and pan-seared salmon, sometimes I need something even quicker. So, I’ve been coming up with creative ways to sneak in protein, and this chocolate banana protein shake never disappoints. 

It’s rich and creamy and it almost tastes like a chocolate milkshake, but it’s full of protein to keep you full. I love this base recipe but you can experiment with different mix-ins to really make this your own.  

More Reader Favorite High Protein Recipes

• High Protein Overnight Oats
• High Protein Breakfast Sandwiches
• High Protein Chocolate Fruit Dip
• High Protein Frozen Yogurt Bark
• Yogurt Fruit Dip
• Pumpkin Pie Dip

Smoothie Ingredients

Milk: my go-to is always almond milk, but use any non-dairy or dairy milk you like best.

Frozen banana: be sure to use a ripe, frozen banana. This enhances the sweetness and creates the smooth, creamy texture we want. 

Chocolate protein powder: choose any chocolate protein powder you like best! You can also use vanilla protein powder or plain protein powder to switch things up. 

Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder: I like to add a bit of Dutch-processed cocoa to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Nut Butter: a tablespoon or so of nut butter like almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter makes smoothies extra creamy and adds extra healthy fats and fiber. 

Smoothie Variations

• Add in some veggies – this smoothie pairs well with the addition of mild veggies such as cauliflower, zucchini, or spinach. So, feel free to add in a handful for a boost of extra fiber if you like! 
• Make it vegan – be sure to use dairy-free milk and a vegan protein powder to keep this chocolate protein shake vegan. 
• Include more fruit – feel free to incorporate extra fruit like strawberries or blueberries if you have them. 
• Make it sweeter – you can make this smoothie even sweeter by adding a touch of maple syrup, honey, or even a pitted date. 

Ways to Customize

I love to add various mix-ins to my smoothies to make them even heartier, especially when making them for breakfast. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Collagen Powder – I love adding a scoop of collagen powder for an extra hit of protein to keep me feeling full. This is also a great option to use instead of protein powder. 
• Ground Flax Seeds – these flaxseeds are full of health benefits, and you can’t even taste them! Flax seeds are a great source of fiber, plant-based protein, and healthy fats!
• Chia Seeds – I recommend adding anywhere between a half to one teaspoon or so of chia seeds. Any more than that, and they might change the texture of the smoothie too much. Be sure to drink it right away, or your smoothie will turn into chia pudding!
• Hemp Seeds – another seed that I love to add to my smoothies is hemp seeds for all the health benefits. I usually add 1/2 a tablespoon.
• Oats – I love adding 1/4 cup of old-fashioned oats to my smoothies for even more fiber and whole grains. You can’t even taste them!

Helpful Kitchen Tools

• High-Speed Blender
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons
• Reusable Straw

How to Make the Best Chocolate Protein Shake Recipe 

Step 1: Add all the ingredients to a high-powered blender. 

Step 2: Blend until a smooth, creamy consistency is formed. Add a bit more milk as needed to achieve your desired consistency. 

Tips for a Creamy Smoothie

1. Add the liquid first – add your liquid to the base of the blender first. This helps make the smoothie easier to blend.
2. Start slow – for the best results, start the blender speed on low, and gradually turn it up before bringing it to full speed. This ensures all the ingredients blend completely. 
3. Use frozen produce – to get a really thick and creamy texture, be sure to use a frozen banana. Fresh fruit will create a runnier consistency. 

More Delicious Smoothie Recipes

• My Favorite Protein Smoothie
• Banana Smoothie
• Creamy Peach Smoothie
• The Best Green Smoothie
• Chocolate Strawberry Smoothie
• The Best Creamy Coffee Smoothie

Find even more of the best healthy smoothie recipes! 

I hope you give this Chocolate Protein Shake Recipe a try! It’s perfectly creamy, easy to make, and delicious! If you do give this recipe a try, let me know! Leave a comment with a star rating below. You can also snap a photo & tag @allthehealthythings on INSTAGRAM. Your reviews and ratings help support All the Healthy Things and make it possible for me to continue to create the recipes you trust and love.

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Recipe by: Ashlea Carver / All the Healthy Things | Photography by: Eat Love Eat