Take your breakfast or post-workout snack up a notch with this Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie. It’s creamy, satisfying, plant-based, and made with just five simple ingredients. High in protein and naturally sweetened by banana, it feels like a treat while still fueling your day.
When my kids were little they would drop everything the moment I turned on the blender. Smoothies make an easy, loved meal or snack in our house—whether it’s a blueberry-banana blend, a tropical mango-pineapple mix, or this chocolate banana protein version.
As they got older I started adding more protein to their smoothies so they’d feel fuller longer. This Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie quickly became a favorite: it combines banana and cocoa for a classic flavor, plus plant-based protein powder and almond butter for a real protein boost.
There’s no added sugar and it still tastes indulgent—perfect for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a post-workout refuel.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Creamy and flavorful with a balanced chocolate-and-banana profile.
- High in plant-based protein—great for breakfast or after exercise.
- Only five ingredients and ready in minutes.
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan when made with plant-based protein and non-dairy milk.
Recipe ingredients
This smoothie uses a short list of wholesome ingredients, most of which you can swap to suit what you have on hand.
- Almond butter – Adds creaminess, flavor, and extra protein. You can substitute peanut butter or another nut/seed butter if preferred.
- Banana – Use a frozen banana for the best texture. If you want an even thicker smoothie, add another half banana.
- Protein powder – Plant-based chocolate protein powder works well here. Nutrition varies by brand; the nutrition section below is an estimate and may differ depending on the product you choose.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder – Boosts the chocolate flavor without added sugar.
- Unsweetened non-dairy milk – Almond milk or another plant milk provides the liquid base. Use the amount listed in the recipe card for desired consistency.
Quantities and full ingredient list are included in the recipe card below.
How to make this recipe
This smoothie is quick and straightforward to prepare.
Pro tip: Use frozen banana chunks to create a thick, frosty texture without watering the drink down with ice.
Full, step-by-step instructions are provided in the recipe card.
- Add the ingredients to the blender in the order listed in the recipe card. Place the frozen banana on top so it feeds into the blades evenly.
- Blend until completely smooth and creamy, about 30–60 seconds depending on your blender.
- Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately.
Recipe FAQs
Blend for 30 to 60 seconds, or until the texture is smooth and there are no lumps of frozen fruit remaining.
Banana adds natural sweetness and a creamy, thick texture that helps create a satisfying smoothie without added sugars.
If you prefer not to use banana, frozen berries like strawberries or raspberries work well. For lower-carb options, frozen cauliflower florets or riced cauliflower can provide thickness without fruit.
Ice can thicken a smoothie but often makes it watery as it melts. For best texture, use frozen fruit instead of ice.
Recipe notes
- Nutrition estimates are approximate. Values will vary depending on the brands of protein powder and non-dairy milk you use.
- Add ingredients to the blender in the order listed to prevent the frozen banana from becoming stuck in the blades.
- For a thicker smoothie, add an extra 1/2 frozen banana or reduce the milk slightly.
- This recipe is flexible—swap the nut butter, protein powder, or milk to suit your pantry and dietary needs.
Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 large banana, frozen and cut into chunks
- 1 scoop chocolate plant-based protein powder
- 2 tbsp almond butter
- 1.5 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a blender in the order listed and blend until smooth. If needed, stop and scrape the sides or add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Notes
- Nutrition is an estimate only and will vary by product brands used, especially protein powder and non-dairy milk.
- Add ingredients in the order listed to help the blender process frozen banana smoothly.
- For a thicker texture, add another 1/2 frozen banana.
- Feel free to substitute nut butter, protein powder, or milk to suit dietary needs and taste preferences.
Nutrition
Nutrition is estimated using a food database and is intended for informational purposes only.
If you make it, please leave a review below and tag @flavorthemoments on social media so I can see what you created.
More smoothie recipes you’ll love:
- Banana Coconut Cream Smoothie
- Orange Cream Smoothie
- Pear Ginger Smoothie
- Mango Kale Smoothie