Take your next breakfast or post-workout snack up a notch with this Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie. Creamy, naturally sweet, and packed with plant-based protein, this simple smoothie uses just five wholesome ingredients to deliver a satisfying, dairy-free treat you can make in minutes.
Blenders have a way of bringing everybody to the kitchen — in our house, a whirring blender means a crowd. Over time I began adding protein to our smoothies so they would keep everyone fuller longer. This Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie quickly became a favorite: it balances chocolate and banana perfectly and gets an extra protein boost from plant-based powder and almond butter. There’s no added sugar and, yet, it tastes indulgent.
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Rich and creamy texture that feels like a dessert but is made with whole-food ingredients.
- High in plant-based protein — a great option for breakfast or after exercise.
- Only five main ingredients and ready in about 10 minutes.
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan when you use plant-based protein powder and non-dairy milk.
Recipe ingredients
This smoothie uses just a few ingredients that you can easily customize based on taste or what’s in your pantry.
- Almond butter — Adds creaminess, flavor, and extra protein. Substitute with peanut butter or another nut/seed butter if preferred.
- Banana — Use frozen banana for a thick, frosty texture. For an even thicker smoothie, add an extra half banana.
- Plant-based chocolate protein powder — Provides the protein boost and chocolate flavor. Nutrition will vary by brand.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder — Intensifies the chocolate taste without added sugar.
- Unsweetened non-dairy milk — Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk all work well to achieve your desired consistency.
How to make this recipe
This smoothie is quick and straightforward to make. Follow the steps below for a smooth, creamy result.
Pro tip: Add the ingredients to the blender in the order listed, placing the frozen banana on top so it blends evenly rather than getting stuck around the blades.
- Combine the non-dairy milk, protein powder, almond butter, cocoa powder, and frozen banana in a high-speed blender.
- Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, about 30–60 seconds depending on your blender.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If you like, garnish with a banana slice or cacao nibs.
Recipe FAQs
How long should you blend a smoothie? Blend until smooth and creamy, typically 30–60 seconds. If pieces of frozen fruit remain, pulse briefly and then blend again.
Why add banana to a smoothie? Bananas contribute natural sweetness and help create a smooth, thick texture. Frozen banana also chills the drink without diluting it.
Can I substitute the banana? Yes. Frozen berries like strawberries or raspberries work well and give a different flavor profile. For low-carb or ketogenic swaps, frozen cauliflower florets can add body without much flavor. Adjust other ingredients for taste and texture.
Does ice thicken a smoothie? Ice can thicken a smoothie but often dilutes flavor as it melts. For best texture and taste, use frozen fruit rather than ice cubes.
Recipe notes
- Nutrition estimates vary. The nutrition information depends on the specific 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 clogging the blades.
- For extra thickness, add another half banana or reduce the milk slightly.
- This recipe is flexible: swap nut butters, protein powders, or milks to suit dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie
Serves: 2 | Prep time: 10 mins | Cook time: 0 mins | Total time: 10 mins
Summary: A creamy, high-protein vegan smoothie with chocolate and banana — perfect for breakfast or a post-workout boost.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups unsweetened almond milk (or other non-dairy milk)
- 1 large banana, frozen and cut into chunks
- 1 scoop chocolate plant-based protein powder
- 2 tbsp almond butter (or preferred nut/seed butter)
- 1.5 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in the blender in the order listed, with the frozen banana on top.
- Blend until smooth and creamy, about 30–60 seconds, depending on your blender.
- Pour into two glasses and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary by brand of protein powder and non-dairy milk.
- To avoid clogs, always add frozen fruit on top of the other ingredients.
- Add more frozen banana for a thicker, frostier texture.
Nutrition (estimated per serving)
Calories: 242 kcal · Carbohydrates: 25 g · Protein: 15 g · Fat: 13 g · Fiber: 7 g · Sugar: 10 g · Potassium: 535 mg · Calcium: 382 mg
Course: Breakfast · Cuisine: American · Author: Marcie
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- Banana coconut cream smoothie
- Orange cream smoothie with three ingredients
- Pear and ginger smoothie
- Mango kale green smoothie
Did you try this recipe? If so, leave a review and tag @flavorthemoments on social media so I can see what you made.