Chocolate Protein Smoothie

This chocolate protein smoothie is our go-to when we need an straightforward breakfast to keep us satisfied throughout the morning. It doesn’t hurt that it also satisfies our chocolate craving with minimal sugar. Hemp seeds are the hero of this recipe. They’re a plant-based powerhouse ingredient that pack in 10 grams of protein per 3 tablespoons. Sometimes, we make this without protein powder and let the hemp seeds fuel us. We highly recommend starting your day with this naturally sweet, high-protein, chocolatey treat!

What stands out

Chocolate for breakfast? Every kid’s fantasy is now an adult reality! This protein-rich smoothie is high in plant-based protein thanks to magical hemp seeds (no, not that kind of magical), which keep you satisfied for hours. Bananas and fresh dates thicken up this beverage, so the texture is almost like a milkshake.

How to Prepare Chocolate Protein Smoothie

Add the banana, milk, hemp seeds, cacao, protein powder (if using), and date to a blender. Then blend until nice and smooth, about 1 minute.

You can refrigerate the smoothie or add ice to your glass. Enjoy and garnish with mini chocolate chips if you like.

Kitchen tip

The date is an optional ingredient, but it gives the smoothie a fudgy, thick texture that reminds us of a milkshake. You can find dates in the dried or fresh fruit section in the grocery store. We love Medjool for their caramel flavor.

Chocolate Protein Smoothie Variations and Substitutions

1. To sweeten this up even more, add a small dash of maple syrup or your sweetener of choice.
2. Try any plant-based milk you like, such as oat, almond, soy, etc.
3. Serving this to kids? Garnish with a few mini chocolate chips.
4. In addition to or instead of hemp hearts, try chia seeds.

Serve it with

• A protein smoothie is fuel pre- or post workout or as a breakfast or snack on the go.
• To make this a full protein-heavy breakfast serve with a Yogurt Bowl or Chia Pudding.
• Craving even more morning protein? Check out our Breakfast Casserole and Egg Bites.

Questions

What is cacao powder?

Cacao powder is the raw, unprocessed version of cocoa powder. It can be a bit more bitter than cocoa and usually contains zero sugar. It’s full of healthy minerals and antioxidants.

Can This chocolate protein smoothie be made with frozen bananas?

Yes, you can certainly make this with frozen or fresh bananas.

What are hemp seeds? what do they taste like?

Hemp seeds are a plant-based protein, chock-full of healthy fats, protein, and minerals. They are from the hemp plant. They’re pretty mild but contribute a slight nutty flavor to the smoothie.

Can i use any other seeds besides hemp seeds?

Yes, chia seeds are another great source of protein.

Ingredients

Makes 1 servings

• ¼ ripe banana, or more if you like
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon hemp seeds
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cacao powder, or cocoa powder
• 1 scoop protein powder, optional
• ½ medjool date, pitted
• mini chocolate chips, for garnish, optional

Equipment

• Blender
• Cutting Board
• Measuring Cups + Spoons
• shaker bottle optional, for serving

Method

1. Add the banana, milk, hemp seeds, cacao, protein powder (if using), and date to a blender. Blend until nice and smooth, about 1 minute. You can refrigerate it or add ice to your glass. Enjoy and garnish with mini chocolate chips, if you like.