Chocolate Banana Protein Powerhouse
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder 30g, plant-based or whey
- 1 frozen banana medium size
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
- 1 tbsp natural almond or peanut butter
- 1 tbsp raw cacao powder
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup ice cubes
Optional Additions
- 1 tsp chia seeds for added omega-3s
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract for enhanced flavor
Add your liquid base (almond milk) to the blender first. This creates a vortex effect that pulls other ingredients down toward the blades for a smoother blend.
Add your protein powder, cacao powder, and cinnamon. Adding these before frozen ingredients prevents powder from sticking to the sides or top of your blender.
Break your frozen banana into chunks before adding for more efficient blending. Add your almond butter now too.
Add ice last. Start blending on low speed for 10 seconds, then gradually increase to high for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth.
Taste test and adjust as needed. Too thick? Add a splash more liquid. Not sweet enough? Add a date or half teaspoon of honey.
For a lower carb option: Replace banana with 1/2 avocado plus stevia to maintain creaminess while reducing carbs.
For higher protein version: Add 1/4 cup Greek yogurt to boost protein content to 35g.
Best consumed immediately after blending, as nutrients begin degrading within 20 minutes.
For meal prep, prepare "smoothie packs" by portioning all freezable ingredients in individual bags, then blend with liquid when ready.
Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 30g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 5mg | Sodium: 250mg | Potassium: 650mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 14g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 300mg | Iron: 2.7mg