Chocolate Protein Shake
What better way to make sure you are getting enough protein than a delicious protein shake? Our Chocolate Protein Shakes will help increase your protein intake all the while providing rich chocolate flavor and a good reason to workout!
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This Chocolate Protein Shake recipe isn’t just beneficial, it is packed full of natural flavors and creamy texture. Sweetened with honey and the natural sugars of banana, one sip of this shake and you’ll be hooked! With wholesome ingredients like honey, milk, and bananas you can’t go wrong.
There’s no special protein powder you are required to use to make this chocolate milkshake. Pick your personal favorite protein powder! You can use vanilla or chocolate protein powder, the cocoa powder will fill in for any lack of chocolatey flavor.
This shake is a delicious way to satisfy your chocolate cravings without having to go crazy with the sugar. You can also add in whatever you want, whether to change the taste or to add in some more vitamins to your daily diet. Tossing in some spinach, flaxseed, or cacao nibs are all great options.
Chocolate Protein Shakes have a ton of flexibility when it comes to making it perfect for you and your routine. There are plenty of tips below to get just the right sweetness, texture, and vitamin content.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Rich, chocolatey flavor: Cocoa powder and vanilla make this shake taste like dessert, but it’s packed with nutrition.
Protein-powered: A full scoop of protein powder plus peanut butter keeps you full and fueled.
Naturally sweetened: Made with honey and banana, no refined sugar needed.
Quick and blender-friendly: Toss everything in and blend, ready in under 5 minutes.
Perfect anytime: Great for post-workout recovery, breakfast on the go, or a healthy sweet tooth fix.
Ingredients to Make Chocolate Protein Shake:
- milk. Use any milk of choice; dairy, almond, oat, or coconut. Whole milk makes it creamier; unsweetened almond milk keeps it lighter.
- protein powder. Chocolate or vanilla both work here. Choose a clean blend you enjoy the taste of; whey, plant-based, or collagen.
- cocoa powder. Adds deep chocolate flavor. Use unsweetened cocoa powder or raw cacao for a richer boost.
- peanut butter. Adds healthy fat, flavor, and extra protein. Almond or cashew butter are good swaps.
- honey. Natural sweetness that blends smoothly. Maple syrup or a pitted Medjool date can be used instead.
- frozen banana. Makes the shake thick and creamy without needing ice. Peel and freeze ripe bananas in advance.
- vanilla extract. Enhances all the other flavors and balances the cocoa.
How to Make Chocolate Protein Shake:
- Combine milk, protein powder, cocoa powder, peanut butter, honey, frozen banana, and vanilla extract in a blender.
- Blend on high until smooth and creamy, about 30–45 seconds.
- If too thick, add a splash more milk. For a colder shake, toss in a few ice cubes and blend again.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Recommended Equipment
Recipe Notes & Tips:
- Freeze bananas in advance: Peel and slice ripe bananas, then freeze in a single layer so they’re ready for smoothies anytime.
- No protein powder? Add ¾ cup Greek yogurt or 2 tablespoons chia seeds for a protein boost without powder.
- Make it dairy-free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk and a plant-based protein powder.
- Want it thicker? Add a few ice cubes or reduce the milk slightly for a thicker, milkshake-like texture.
- Add-ins to try: Toss in a handful of spinach (you won’t taste it), flaxseed for fiber, or cacao nibs for crunch.
- Make it a smoothie bowl: Use less milk and blend until thick, then top with granola, banana slices, or chopped nuts.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your protein powder and banana ripeness, you may want more or less honey, taste and tweak as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
How to Store:
Refrigerator: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before drinking as it may separate.
Freezer: Pour into an ice cube tray and freeze. Blend frozen cubes later with a splash of milk for an instant shake.
Make-ahead tip: Combine all ingredients except milk in a freezer-safe bag. Store in the freezer, then blend with milk when ready.
FAQs:
Yes! For a banana-free version, use ½ cup Greek yogurt and a handful of ice for creaminess, or substitute with frozen cauliflower for a lower-sugar option.
Absolutely. It contains protein for muscle recovery, carbs from banana and honey, and healthy fats from peanut butter.
Yes! You can reduce the cocoa powder or use less protein powder for a kid-sized version that’s still creamy and chocolatey.
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Chocolate Protein Shake
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1 scoop protein powder
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Combine milk, protein powder, cocoa powder, peanut butter, honey, frozen banana, and vanilla extract in a blender.
- Blend on high until smooth and creamy, about 30–45 seconds.
- If too thick, add a splash more milk. For a colder shake, toss in a few ice cubes and blend again.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Freeze bananas in advance: Peel and slice ripe bananas, then freeze in a single layer so they’re ready for smoothies anytime.
- No protein powder? Add ¾ cup Greek yogurt or 2 tablespoons chia seeds for a protein boost without powder.
- Make it dairy-free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk and a plant-based protein powder.
- Want it thicker? Add a few ice cubes or reduce the milk slightly for a thicker, milkshake-like texture.
- Add-ins to try: Toss in a handful of spinach (you won’t taste it), flaxseed for fiber, or cacao nibs for crunch.
- Make it a smoothie bowl: Use less milk and blend until thick, then top with granola, banana slices, or chopped nuts.
- Adjust sweetness: Depending on your protein powder and banana ripeness, you may want more or less honey, taste and tweak as needed.
Nutrition Facts:
These nutrition facts are estimated and can vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods. Always consult product labels or a nutrition professional for precise information.Calories: 350
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 180mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 25g
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