Chocolate Protein Powder Smoothie (Rich & Creamy)
If you love a thick, chocolatey smoothie that actually tastes like a treat, this chocolate protein smoothie is going to be on repeat. It’s rich, creamy, and has that classic Frosty-style texture, but it’s packed with protein and even has a full serving of veggies blended right in. Unlike a lot of overly sweet smoothies, this one gets its flavor from cocoa powder and dates, giving it a deep chocolate taste with just the right amount of sweetness.
I’ve made a lot of smoothies over the years, with over 50 on the site and most of them focused on getting in more protein, and this is one that immediately stood out. The first time I made it, I couldn’t believe how much it tasted like a milkshake. It’s thick, satisfying, and made without banana, so the chocolate flavor really shines.
If you like chocolate smoothies, these are some great ones to try too. The chocolate banana oat smoothie is extra creamy, the chocolate strawberry banana smoothie is a fun twist on a classic smoothie, and the chocolate mango smoothie is unexpectedly declious. They’re all high in protein as well, so they’ll keep you full just like this one.
Ingredient spotlight
A few ingredients in this smoothie might be a little unexpected, but they’re what make it so thick, creamy, and flavorful.
- Tahini – Tahini is a creamy paste made from sesame seeds, similar to a nut butter. It adds richness and pairs really well with the chocolate and dates. If you don’t have it, you can easily swap in almond butter, peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
- Medjool dates – Dates add a rich, caramel-like sweetness that really makes this smoothie. Be sure they’re pitted before blending. If you don’t have dates, maple syrup works best, but honey or even frozen banana can be used if you’re okay with the flavor.
- Frozen cauliflower rice – Yes, there’s cauliflower in this smoothie and no, you won’t taste it. It makes the smoothie thick and creamy without adding flavor. Be sure to use frozen cauliflower, not fresh, since fresh has a much stronger taste. Frozen florets work too if you don’t have riced cauliflower.
- Protein powder – Chocolate protein powder works best here to enhance the chocolate flavor. Use one you actually enjoy, since the taste will come through in the smoothie.
- Chia seeds – Chia seeds help thicken the smoothie and add a little extra fiber. If you don’t love the texture, you can use ground chia, sometimes called chia protein, for a smoother blend.
How to make a chocolate protein powder smoothie
Add all the ingredients to a high speed blender. Blend for 1-2 minutes until completely smooth.
Top tips
- Cauliflower substitutes – If you don’t tolerate cauliflower, use ½ frozen banana with ¼–½ cup oats, or ½ an avocado for a similar creamy texture.
- Dates add flavor, not just sweetness – Medjool dates give this smoothie a rich, caramel-like flavor. Maple syrup or honey can be used instead, but the flavor will be slightly different.
- Prep smoothie packs ahead of time – To make mornings easier, portion the cauliflower, ice, chia seeds, and pitted dates into freezer-safe bags. When ready, just add the remaining ingredients and blend.
Creamy Chocolate Protein Smoothie (Frosty Style)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons tahini - or almond butter or peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons cacao powder - or cocoa powder
- 2 medium medjool dates, pitted - or 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup frozen cauliflower - or ice
- 1 serving chocolate protein powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 cup dairy free milk
- ½ cup ice
Instructions
- Start by measuring out the ingredients into a blender.2 tablespoons tahini, 2 tablespoons cacao powder, 2 medium medjool dates, pitted, 1 cup frozen cauliflower, 1 serving chocolate protein powder, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 1 cup dairy free milk, ½ cup ice
- Blend on high until smooth.
Recipe Notes
- Use a high-speed blender- For the smoothest texture, use a high-speed blender. If your blender isn’t very strong, blend the cauliflower, chia seeds, and milk first, then add the remaining ingredients.
- Use frozen cauliflower – Frozen cauliflower rice is key for a thick, creamy texture. Do not use fresh cauliflower, as the flavor will be too strong.
- Remove pits from dates – Always make sure your Medjool dates are fully pitted before blending.
- Adjust sweetness based on protein powder – Chocolate protein powder adds sweetness. If using an unsweetened protein or skipping it, add 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup, honey, or extra dates.
Nutrition Information
Other additions
This smoothie is great as-is, but there are a few easy ways to change up the flavor or add a little more to it.
- Add more chocolate – For an even richer chocolate flavor, add cacao nibs or mini chocolate chips and blend for about 10 seconds.
- Make it a mocha – Add a shot of espresso or some cold brew for a mocha flavor. Just reduce the milk slightly to keep the same consistency.
- Boost the protein – If you want to add more protein, try mixing in hemp hearts, swapping some of the milk for Greek-style yogurt, or adding collagen peptides, which won’t change the flavor. Check out all my tips on how to add more protein to smoothies.
