Strawberry Banana Chocolate Protein Smoothie
If you love a classic strawberry banana smoothie, this chocolate version is going to be such a fun upgrade. It has that same creamy, familiar flavor from frozen strawberries and bananas, but with a rich chocolate twist that makes it feel a little more like a treat. It’s thick, refreshing, and simple to make, making it perfect for breakfast, a quick lunch, or even dinner on a really hot day.
I’ve always loved strawberry banana smoothies, so when I set out to add chocolate, I wanted to keep that classic flavor as close as possible. With over 50 smoothie recipes on the site, most of them focused on adding more protein, I’ve learned that the protein source really matters for flavor. That’s why I use collagen peptides here. They add protein without changing the taste, so the strawberry and banana still shine.
If you love this smoothie, try one of my other high protein favorites next! The chocolate protein smoothie is rich and creamy, the chocolate banana oat smoothie is super filling, and the mango chocolate smoothie is unexpectedly delicious. All are easy, protein packed, and dairy free.
Ingredient spotlight
- Frozen strawberries and banana –This classic combo creates a naturally sweet, creamy base. Using frozen fruit keeps the smoothie thick and refreshing without needing ice, which can water down the flavor.
- Almond butter – Adds richness and helps make the smoothie more satisfying and creamy. You can easily swap it with peanut butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or whatever you have on hand.
- Cacao powder – Gives the smoothie a deep chocolate flavor. It has a slightly richer taste than cocoa powder, but either will work here.
- Collagen peptides or protein powder – Adds protein to help keep you full. Collagen blends in easily and has no flavor, while protein powder will add a bit more sweetness and taste depending on what you use.
How to make strawberry banana chocolate smoothie
Add all the ingredient to make the smoothie in a blender. Blend 30 seconds to 1 minute until smooth. Pour into a cup and enjoy.
Tips for success
- Use the largest blender cup if needed – If using a bullet-style blender, use the largest cup available since this recipe makes a full serving.
- Make chia seeds easier to blend – If you don’t love the texture, grind chia seeds first in a coffee grinder or blend them alone before adding the other ingredients. You can also use ground chia, sometimes called chia protein. Store ground chia in the fridge or freezer.
- Prep smoothie packs ahead of time – To save time in the morning, portion out the strawberries and bananas into freezer-safe bags. When ready, just add the remaining ingredients and blend.
Creamy Strawberry Banana Chocolate Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 medium banana (can be frozen)
- 1 cup dairy free milk
- 3 tablespoons cacao powder
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
- 1 scoop collagen peptides or protein powder (optional)
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a high speed blender.1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen), 1 medium banana (can be frozen), 1 cup dairy free milk, 3 tablespoons cacao powder, 1 tablespoon almond butter, 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional), 1 scoop collagen peptides or protein powder (optional)
- Blend on high 30 seconds – 1 minute until smooth.
- Pour in a glass or in a bowl and add your favorite toppings.
Equipment
Recipe Notes
Tips essential for success
- Use frozen bananas – Frozen bananas are key for a thick, creamy texture. Fresh bananas won’t give you the same consistency.
- Use frozen strawberries (or adjust) – Frozen strawberries work best. If using fresh, add ¼–½ cup ice to keep the smoothie cold and thick.
- Use a high-speed blender or blend in stages – If your blender isn’t very strong, blend the bananas, strawberries, chia seeds, and milk first. Then add the remaining ingredients and blend again.
Storing leftovers
- Freezer: pour leftovers into popsicle molds! These are even better if you add some avocado to the smoothie before freezing.
Nutrition Information
Other additions
There are a few easy ways to change the texture, sweetness, or add a little more to this smoothie.
- Avocado – Add ½ a ripe avocado to make the smoothie even creamier.
- Dates – Add 1–2 pitted dates for extra sweetness. They also add a subtle caramel flavor.
- Frozen veggies – You can add frozen spinach, kale, or cauliflower rice for extra volume. If you do, add a little more milk or water to keep the same consistency. Skip the extra liquid if you want a thicker smoothie.
- Cacao nibs – Blend in for a little texture and extra chocolate flavor.
- Oats – Add oats to make the smoothie thicker and more filling.
