Protein intake is a popular subject with our SGS community, particularly adding protein to shakes or smoothies. This chocolate protein drink is the creme de la creme, when it comes to a tasty, protein-packed simple shakes. And you can rest assured that this chocolate banana protein yumminess contains only plant based, whole food ingredients!
Can I really make a protein shake at home?
You sure can! And this chocolate banana protein shake will taste way better than the one you'd buy on your way home from the gym. Store bought protein shakes often use cheap proteins like whey or pea, as well as tons of additives + chemical sweeteners to try and make them taste good.
Even if you're not short on time, a protein shake or smoothie is still a great meal replacement option. It's pretty amazing what you can pack into a smoothie— like superfood mushrooms from Four Sigmatic.
Mushroom protein powder = magic
Now before you say, "mushrooms in a shake???" Let me explain. Certain types of mushrooms are adaptogens. Adaptogens are substances that aid the body and mind in adapting to as well as managing stress.
Stress over a long period of time can cause what's known as adrenal fatigue. This is one of the most common struggles of the American mom, which is why we've made a green smoothie for it too. The adrenal glands excrete chemicals (like hormones) that help our bodies and minds deal with stress. Fueling your body with whole food recipes like this chocolate protein shake gives it nutrients to help fight stress naturally.
One of our team members, Lindsey, went back to college and is using this chocolate shake recipe to thrive. By boosting it with Four Sigmatic Superfood Protein Powder, it's possible to enjoy breakfast as well as give her brain + body a healthy boost. (She's also hoping that her classmates will ask her about her daily smoothie so she can share all about her love of smoothies. Ha!)
Plant based protein options
I only recommend products I personally love and feel our community can benefit from. That's one reason why I love Four Sigmatic products— they back my plant-powered passion.
If you're looking for a plant based protein powder, yet mushrooms aren't really your thing, then give my own Protein Smoothie Boost a try. It's got 3 ingredients: organic hemp hearts, organic chia seeds, and organic flax seeds. It also adds 10 grams of protein to any smoothie, boosting that smoothie to the perfect meal replacement. It blends seamlessly with this chocolate protein shake, as well as any other smoothie you want to try!
How to make a chocolate protein shake
To make this plant-powered thick and delicious shake, all you need are a few ingredients:
- Almond Milk: plant-based milk
- Bananas: one of the easiest ways to flavor and thicken a shake
- Dates: these natural sweeteners are rich in fiber
- Cacao powder: this adds a rich chocolate flavor and a little caffeine to rev your engine
- Plant-Based Protein Powder: boost your protein intake
Protein shake toppings
Now, if you wanna make this chocolate banana protein shake real fancy like I did for this photoshoot, then drizzle it with these additional superfoods:
- Almond butter
- Hemp hearts
- Cacao nibs
- sliced bananas
Honestly, you could add a little less liquid than the recipe calls for, then scoop this shake out with a spoon to really enjoy those toppings.
Ingredient swaps
Smoothies offer so many easy swap options, so don't shy away from this chocolate protein shake if you can't do one of the ingredients! Instead, try one of these substitutes:
If you need less natural sugar in this shake, then swap out 1 banana for ½ cup of frozen cauliflower. Still super creamy, yet lower in sugar
If you have a nut allergy, then swap out the almond milk for oat milk or coconut milk. Also use a seed butter as a stand-in for the almond butter instead.
No dates on hand? No problem! Swap in a tablespoon of maple syrup (vegan option) or honey (vegetarian option) to keep the natural sweetener flowing.
Chocolate Protein Shake
Rate this Recipe Print RecipeIngredients
- 1.5 cups almond milk (chilled)
- 1 serving Protein Smoothie Boost
- 2 tablespoon cacao powder (unsweetened)
- 1 medjool date (pitted)
- 1.5 bananas (sliced or halved, frozen if desired)
- Ice (optional)
Suggested Toppings
- 1 teaspoon almond butter
- 1 teaspoon hemp hearts
- 1 teaspoon cacao nibs
Instructions
- Blend all ingredients, except for toppings, until smooth. Add ice to make smoothie colder, if desired.
- Divide between two glasses or jars. Top each with a drizzle of almond butter and sprinkle with hemp hearts and cacao nibs. Drink immediately.
Notes
- Nutrition info doesn't include optional toppings, which will add another ~100 calories per serving.
- For powder, I suggest using Four Sigmatic Adaptagens or my very own Protein Smoothie Boost
Nutrition (estimated)
More protein forward smoothies
I don't like to sip the same smoothie every day, so I've got several different smoothie recipes I utilize for workout recovery:
Ka
This is really good. I didn’t realize until I was making it how similar it is to the mocha smoothie, which is one of my favorites.
Teresa
I didn’t think I would be a fan of this smoothie but oh man, I was wrong! It was delicious! It was creamy and not too chocolaty (I’m not a fan chocolate shakes). I added ice to the blender to make it thicker and cooler and it was perfect! I’ll have to try again because since I took the shake to go I really couldn’t waste time with toppings. Cacoa powder is my new favorite addition to smoothies!
Wendy Pegues
Chocolate Protein Shake 🙂 I Enjoyed My Chocolate, Bananas And Dates Smoothie, Sweet Without Being Overbearing. I Added Ice For That Milkshake Consistency. I Will Make This Smoothie Again 🙂
Michelle Furlow
This is really yummy! I didn’t have any ice and wanted a cold smoothie, so I added some frozen strawberries for a chocolate covered strawberry smoothie.
Stefanie
This is a delicious and filling smoothie. It is great for breakfast or a treat in the afternoon and tastes great.
Michelle Calvillo
This one I have to say was the bomb! My fav by far, I can’t get enough of chocolate!
Noreen
Nice chocolate flavor and a decent flavor smoothie.
Celine
What a treat!
Colleen
As someone else has said, a healthy way to take care of a chocolate craving.
Colleen
Healthy way to take care of a chocolate craving.
Christa B.
Chocolate yumminess! I only added 1 banana, also added almond butter to blend. Perfection for those chocolate cravings! This is so filling too! Will blend this smoothie again!!
Mickey
This was my favorite smoothie of the 10 day challenge! Very rich and creamy with the added ice. I will make this again!
shirley
being a chocoholic, I absolutely loved this recipe. I shared this with my daughter and she was amazed with the flavor. Is seriously thinking of purchasing a machine!
Gerald Lacy
This smoothie was absolutely delicious!
Erin
Love this one! It's my go-to pre workout smoothie
Catherine T
This one was just like a chocolate milkshake. Just great!
Evelyn
yummy!
Since I made several substitutions ... it was a taste and add experiment
Although I am not supposed to have chocolate I splurged today! Used Dutch processed European choc since that's what I had. Substituted 1 cup of mangos for 1 banana and 1/4 small avocado for .5 banana and used 3 dates for banana sweetness. Added a 1/2 tsp raw honey too. Mangoes gave it an unusual taste ... bananas would probably be more typical. Coconut milk instead of Almond milk. Oh and no protein scoop. Was creamy and chocolatey. Not sure about the unusual magno taste...
son: 2 due to mango aftertaste ... my fault not y'alls
daughter: 4 would prefer it with banana
me: 3 due to mango aftertaste ... again my fault since I don't do bananas...
Regina Sanders
We enjoyed today’s challenge. It was very tasty. We used protein powder and topped it with almond butter. It is similar to the chocolate smoothie which we make.
I will enclose the Chocolate smoothie recipe which we make, if anyone would like to try it:
We use a chocolate protein powder the recommended scoops on the package. We use 2 scoops.
1 Cup of Frozen or chilled Almond Milk
I Frozen Banana
2 Tablespoons of Walnuts
1/4 cup of Black Beans
2 Teaspoons of dairy free dark chocolate morsels. I found that the Lilly’s brand have dairy free dark chocolate morsels.
1/2 Avocado
Sometimes I add Spinach also!
We enjoy this smoothie very much!!!
Loyda
Another yummy smoothie… Thank you for sharing these delicious recipes. This one I like the most.
Ann
Delish!! Creamy like a dessert. The dates gave it such richness. I absolutely loved this smoothie.
Susan
Wow! This one is decadent! I used a mushroom and cacao powder I had for it. The banana and date really make it a treat! Love this one.
Lynn
Nice color. Nice chocolate taste. I think I will like the taste better if I use coconut milk instead of almond milk next time.
Ann B
Since I love chocolate- this was my favorite! I used coconut milk instead of almond milk and followed instructions from there. I did use the Simple Green Smoothie protein powder. I did add some kale microgreens I had in fridge but no toppings. Super delicious!
Thanks for opening my eyes, and stomach, to trying new smoothies!
Deb D
Mmmmm. Desert
Jack Julius
Chocolate protein shake! One of my faves to make! This one is dear to my heart as I make this chocolate shake often and then add cold brew coffee and about a quarter cup to half cup of almond milk. If you’re a coffee nut like me, it’s a great way to start your day or give you a little pump before you work out. The only thing I didn’t have to add on this chocolate smoothie was cocoa nibs… Ran out! But I did add hemp hearts and almond butter… Also added some to the shake since it was only requesting a teaspoon for toppings. And of course having a vitamix blender helps make things much smoother quicker and easier. The chocolate smoothie was a great one to finish with! Who doesn’t love chocolate!
Tanya
Omg! This was out of this world! Chocolatey goodness! You definitely saved the best for last! I added rolled oats and the protein boost and let it sit in the frezsee a bit to chill. I remembered after the fact that I had meant to blend almond butter instead of the protein boost, but it worked out anyway. It was so sweet, thick and yummy! I can't have cacao too often, so this will have to be an occasional treat.
Stephanie
OK, I added Kale because Kale. I used Banana milk, Flax Milk & Oat Milk instead of Almond Milk due to the oxalates in almonds. I cut back to 1/3 of the cocoa also because of oxalates and added Carob Powder instead of the rest. I added a tbsp of Help Seeds. I used half the amount of maple syrup instead of the date, also because of the oxalates in dates. I used a few ice cubes. It was pretty good, a little bitter maybe because of the kale? I liked it, though.
Ella
This one was so good! I used frozen bananas and skipped the ice. My kids stole it from me so I had to make myself a new one! A family fav we will repeat over and over. Thank you!
Patricia
I really liked this smoothie because I love anything chocolate. I added yogurt for my protein and collagen.
Doris
Wanted to lick the container! Delicious!
Judy
All the chocolate you ever need at one time. Added some cauliflower to replace a banana and maple syrup to replace the date. SooooooooGOOD.
Patricia Finley
This was one of my favorite recipes I really enjoyed the cacao powder there it didn't make me feel too bloated And the taste was Yummy! Thanks
Trina
Excellent! Like having dessert before breakfast
Garnetta
Day 10 - Anything Chocolate works for me / my only issue was my date, I chopped it but some parts didn’t get touched / however it was still Good!
Kelsey
Yummy, but also very sweet!
Mary Jo Roberts
I used frozen bananas and dates and skipped the ice...thick and so good!
Kathy
Really enjoyed this sweet treat. For a bit of variety next time I make it, yes there will be a next time, I going to add some peanut butter powder.. it will be like a peanut butter cup yumm
Wen P
I think I have to resign myself to the fact that I don't like smoothies that aren't fruit based and have little to no banana. Just not my thing!
j
another tasty one! I added almond butter while blending. Will definitely make again.
joan
oh lovely-another dessert, thanks
Suellyn
This is a delicious chocolate shake with a slight almond butter flavor. I just blended everything together and I loved it!
Susan
SO smooth, creamy and delicious!
My grandchildren loved it too
Cristina Ribeiro
Ok tasting, but i altered the recipe a bit because I didn’t have dates or cocoa powder, only used 1 cup of milk not 1 1/2, used cashew, almond out of stock, only used 1 banana, not 1 1/2. I forgot to freeze , added chia and flax seeds, did t have almond butter, used peanut
Carmela N.
I love, love anything chocolate and decadent tasting. This was the perfect combination which hit the spot to start my day off right.
Jimmye Porter
You saved the creamiest & dreamiest recipe for last….. chocolate, chocolate & more chocolate.
To the original recipe, I added, 1 tsp chia seeds, 1 scoop chocolate protein powder topped w/ unsweetened coconut flakes, pollen & fresh mint.
So, So Good.
Rach
This was yummy. I did not add the ice or toppings but I bet that would make it even better. Delicious end to 5he challenge.
Marguerite
TODAY is my 69th birthday. What a great day to celebrate with a delicious chocolate smoothie !!
Lynn
Happy Birthday. Hope it is wonderful.
Jan Martin
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARGUERITE!! I’m so glad to be able to wish you wellness, happiness and friendship!! We may not know each other but we have shared a connection with each other and so many others over the last 10 days, and I actually had fun looking forward to each day and different smoothie recipes! Also, reading other peoples reviews on the recipes and different ideas and things that we each created to just be a little different. And now you are sharing your 69th birthday with us, a truly special day for you!! It’s an honor to know you, even for this brief moment of time! I hope you really enjoy your Birthday Marguerite!!
Jen
Just to be clear, I have a major sweet tooth so I am ALL IN for smoothies that taste like dessert! That said, I expected to like this a little more than I did. I initially thought the two tablespoons of cocoa powder was going to make the smoothie overwhelmingly chocolate-y (is there such a thing?), but I actually didn't get that much chocolate flavor. It was still delicious, though! I added a handful of spinach, too.
Cindy C
Who doesn't love Chocolate? This smoothie not only satisfies the chocolate that I sometimes crave but it is healthy as well. Sometimes I will add a bit of peanut butter to it to add some flavor. This one is quite filling and no too sweet, but with just the right amount to keep me going on my mornings. Another winner!
Evee Greer
Chocolate goodness for breakfast! Plenty sweet and creamy. Very filling too.
David Christensen
Uplifting!!! Truly hit the spot after a very warm and trying day.
Anneliese
Yummy! Such a treat in the morning! Perfect amount of sweetness. Wonderful deep chocolate flavour.
Kristen
So yummy! Love this smoothie
Barbara Gall
This is the best one!! Course I am a chocoholic!!!
I have enjoyed the whole 10 days. Thank you
Jean Bostrom
This tastes kind of rich without being too sweet. I like the chocolate creamy smoothies rather than fruit creamy smoothies. With the fruit smoothies, I prefer just fruit and kale, not milk.
Jenn S
This one is perfect for those chocolate craving days, love knowing I am getting a treat that is healthy and guilt free. Thank you 🙂
Jenn S
Forgot to hit the stars 🙂
C
Day 10! I did it! Used my homemade cashew milk in this one w a scoop of Protein Smoothie Boost…I can’t believe how much I’ve learned in 10 days. This one, like all the others, will be in my smoothie rotation. I can’t wait to share this one w the grandkids! Sounds corny but I do feel like a RAWKSTAR! These recipes will be added to my bag of tricks to manage my diabetes…a very flavorful one for sure! Thank you so much !
Leah Kornbau
So good! I added some peanut butter which definitely adds flavor and texture. So sweet!!
Sophie K
Filling! Begs for a handful of greens. Chocolate hides all.
Tania Allan
Absolutely delicious! Kids and I loved this one.
Theresa R.
Good smoothie—a bit thinner than I expected, but I love the addition of the Cacao powder.
Sunny
Love the flavors. Big fan of banana and chocolate and the almond butter blends in great. Smooth and creamy drink.
Rosie
Thank you for the recipe! I enjoyed this and love that there's no added sugar and was chocolatey. (I did like this recipe a little better: https://simplegreensmoothies.com/chocolate-peanut-butter-smoothie) Nonetheless, I would make this one again, but adjust the amounts of the other ingredients so I only use one banana.
Judith Woods
Good!
Sunny
Love the flavors. Big fan of banana and chocolate and the almond butter blends in great. Smooth and creamy drink.
Judith Woods
Tasty!
Jen
Chocolate and banana are my favourite flavour combinations! So yummy!
sally
I poured this one down my throat! so creamy and delicious.
Lea
Excellent flavor, the best yet! Thanks for sharing.
Marilou Morgan
This was good. Not as sweet as I thought it would be, then I remember I forgot the date. Will definitely make this again.
Susan Knudsen
I loved this one, I add peanut butter in the mix.
Edita
Chocolate smoothies are not my first choice, but I like them once in a while. This one tasted good and I would make it again. It reminds me of a milkshake. Perfect for the chocolate cravings!
Simone
Day 10
Yummy!
Holly
Chocolate. Need I say more?
Simone
Day 10
What a great way to get your chocolate craving in a healthy way! Yummy! Delicious!
Lisa
This smoothie is amazing! It tastes just like a chocolate milkshake!!
Esther
Love, love, love this! Enjoyed it with 1 tsp each of hemp hearts and cacao nibs on top. Just yum!
Supreet
So yummy and decadent loved the almond and cocoa nibs combo.
Tasted like a healthy dessert!! Favourite one by far!
Audrey
I’m not a fan of chocolate smoothies, and this didn’t change my mind. Frozen almond milk would be better than ice.
Esther
Frozen almond milk sounds like a great idea! (We were out of ice).
Amanda jorjorian
Chocolate for breakfast is my favorite! I used frozen bananas and no ice. Added a handful of spinach. I really like this one and would make again. Maybe add peanut butter too for a peanut butter cup breakfast!
Kim
Chocolate deliciousness!
Kris M
This one is just not for me. It tasted more like a Banana smoothie rather than a Chocolate Protein Shake. Hard to find any flavor besides banana with 1.5 bananas per 1.5 cups milk. Banana lovers will like it for sure.
Patricia Kelly
Awesome and very filling as a mean replacement.
Hart
I just wanted to 399kcal is interperated as 399 calories, I know it seems obvious as a kcal is 1,000 but just making sure I'm not missing something!
Simple Green Smoothies
Great question! Funny enough - kcal is the same thing as the traditional calorie, so it's all good. Here's a really helpful article that explains in detail. This Chocolate Protein Shake is def 399 calories per serving, not 399,000! 🙂
Lea
Do you blend the ice?
Lisa
Wow! Best smoothie ever!!!
Jasmine S
Jen nailed it again! This smoothie is delicious. It honestly tastes like a chocolate milkshake. I am so impressed.
Kat
This is so good!
Magdalena Montiel
Very gooood!!
Kimberly
Where do I buy hemp hearts?
Simple Green Smoothies
Great question Kimberly! Due to their rising popularity, hemp hearts can now be found widely at local grocery stores (check the aisle with the nuts and seeds). We love to buy them at Costco or other large big box retailers. You can also find them online with Amazon or Thrive Market.
Erin
This has officially become part of my weekly breakfast rotation. SO good and filling, I use it on the mornings I do more intense workouts.
Kim
My kids are ALL ABOUT this smoothie. It's the perfect after-school fuel while we're running to practices.
Dani Mitchel
This was actually really good. I didn't have the Foursigmatic stuff, but I did have Protein Smoothie Boost. It was very chocolate-y, which I liked.
Amanda
One word...HEAVEN!!
Janice
This was so delicious - one of my favorites!!
Trisha
I made the Chocolate Protein Shake....yummy......I subbed the date for maple syrup and added a little almond butter during the blending......great night time snack... will be making apple ginger smoothie and pineapple ginger smoothie tomorrow.....thanks
Simple Green Smoothies
Love that you're giving your blender a workout, Trisha! You're right - this is a waaay better evening snack that what most of us reach for. Nicely done!
Olivia
I tried this recipe over the weekend and it was really good. Almost left out the almond butter!