If you’re craving something rich and chocolatey but still want a nutritious, high-protein smoothie, this Chocolate Chunk Almond Butter Smoothie is exactly what you need. It tastes like a creamy milkshake but is packed with protein, healthy fats, and naturally sweet ingredients to keep you full and energized.
Perfect for breakfast on the go, a post-workout smoothie, or a satisfying healthy snack, this recipe comes together in just a few minutes using simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Smoothie
This smoothie checks all the boxes: creamy, indulgent, filling, and nourishing — without added sugars or artificial ingredients.
- High in protein to keep you full and satisfied
- Made with healthy fats from almond butter
- Naturally sweetened with fruit
- Easy to customize based on your preferences
- Tastes like dessert but fuels your body
It’s one of those recipes that feels like a treat but supports your wellness goals — a true win-win.
High-Protein Chocolate Chunk Almond Butter Smoothie You’ll Crave Daily
If you’re someone who wants their food to feel good and taste even better, this High-Protein Chocolate Chunk Almond Butter Smoothie is for you.
It’s an easy, sneakily healthy smoothie that’s loaded with good-for-you ingredients—yet provides that rich, chocolatey flavor without the sugar crash. So ideal!
Don’t forget to top it with extra cacao nibs or a drizzle of almond butter for that little something extra. Enjoy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This high-protein smoothie uses simple, nutrient-dense ingredients that blend into the perfect texture:
- Frozen banana
- Unsweetened almond milk
- Almond butter
- Protein powder of choice
- Cacao nibs or chocolate chunks
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla extract
- Ice (optional, for thicker texture)
Each ingredient plays a role — from creaminess and sweetness to staying power and rich chocolate flavor.
How to Make the Chocolate Chunk Almond Butter Smoothie
Making this smoothie couldn’t be easier:
- Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Pro tip: For a thicker, milkshake-like texture, use a very ripe frozen banana and minimal liquid.
Tips & Easy Substitutions
Make this smoothie work for you with these simple swaps:
- Nut-free: Swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based protein powder and almond milk
- Extra protein: Add collagen peptides or Greek-style dairy-free yogurt
- Sweeter taste: Add a date or drizzle of maple syrup
Smoothies are incredibly forgiving, so feel free to customize based on what you have on hand.
How to Serve & Enjoy
This smoothie is delicious on its own, but you can also:
- Turn it into a smoothie bowl and top with granola
- Add extra cacao nibs for crunch
- Drizzle with almond butter for a dessert-like finish
It’s indulgent, filling, and totally crave-worthy.
I love Ritual, but have a list of My 6 Favorite Protein Powders (click here), if you’re looking for recommendations.
Also, here are my 3 Tips for a Thicker Smoothie. 😊
What is Ceylon Cinnamon?
The two most widely available varieties of cinnamon include Ceylon and Cassia. Ceylon, or “true cinnamon”, is native to Sri Lanka and southern parts of India, is tan/brown in color and has a delicate, mildly sweet flavor. Cassia cinnamon originated in southern China, tends to be a dark red/brown color and has a stronger, spicier flavor. Both are delicious and share the superfood qualities that we love!
Can I make this chocolate almond butter smoothie without protein powder?
Absolutely! If you prefer to skip the protein powder, you can still enjoy this smoothie with a few tweaks. Try adding 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or hemp hearts for a natural protein boost. You can also blend in a scoop of Greek yogurt (if not dairy-free) or a plant-based protein-rich food like silken tofu. It’ll still be creamy and satisfying, just with a slightly different texture and nutrient profile. I haven’t tested these yet, but let me know if you do!
MORE HEALTHY SMOOTHIE RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE
Preggy Date Cinnamon Roll Smoothie
High-Protein Chocolate Chunk Almond Butter Smoothie
Equipment
- high speed blender
Ingredients
- 1 frozen banana
- 1.5 tablespoons organic almond butter
- 1 serving chocolate protein powder, or vanilla protein with 1 tablespoon cacao powder
- 1 tablespoon cacao nibs or 85% dark chocolate chunks
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Handful of ice
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a glass and top with additional cacao nibs or dark chocolate chunks, if desired. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
Ok, so I’ve made this twice so far! This is a delicious, satisfying smoothie which curbs my desire for dessert. This is packed with protein and keeps me going throughout the day! Love being able to eat more protein and satisfy my sweet tooth too!
Love your recipes – Do you have nutrition breakdown for this smoothie?
Looks delicious. Ceylon cinnamon is trendy but really in a small amount, it’s not going to do anything for your health. Try Vietnamese cinnamon which is used for rich cinnamon rolls and adds a lot of depth especially with chocolate notes. Also, you do not want to rely on smoothies regularly as blended fruits are far more high on the glycemic scale than when enjoyed whole. Cheers!