Start your day with a delicious and nutritious chocolate blueberry smoothie. Made with blueberries, cocoa, banana, spinach, milk, and protein powder, this creamy smoothie tastes indulgent while delivering antioxidants, fiber, and satisfying protein. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and works well for breakfast, a post-workout refuel, or a healthy snack.
This recipe pairs antioxidant-rich blueberries with unsweetened cocoa for a chocolatey flavor that doesn’t rely on added sugars. A banana adds natural sweetness and creaminess, while a handful of baby spinach boosts nutrients without altering taste. Use your preferred milk and protein powder to tailor the smoothie to your dietary needs.
Why you’ll love this smoothie
- Chocolatey and nourishing: Blueberries and cocoa provide antioxidants for a healthful boost.
- Quick and versatile: Ready in minutes and easy to adapt for breakfast, a snack, or post-workout recovery.
- Customizable: Increase protein, add more fruit or greens, or swap the milk to suit your preferences.
What you’ll need
- Milk: Almond milk is a great base, but oat, cashew, coconut, or other plant milks work well.
- Berries: Frozen blueberries are convenient year-round; fresh berries are fine too.
- Greens: Baby spinach blends smoothly and adds vitamins and fiber.
- Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa provides rich chocolate flavor and antioxidants.
- Banana: Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
- Protein powder: Choose your preferred powder to boost protein — around 20 g per scoop is typical.
Substitutions and variations
- Milk: Try oat, cashew, hemp, or coconut milk for different textures and flavors.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth.
- Sweeteners: If you want it sweeter, add honey or maple syrup. For a lower-sugar option, use a zero-sugar syrup or omit added sweeteners altogether.
- Vanilla: A small splash of vanilla extract deepens the flavor.
How to make a chocolate blueberry smoothie
Making this smoothie is simple: add the milk to the blender first, then the protein powder, followed by the banana, blueberries, spinach, and cocoa. Blend until smooth. Taste and add a sweetener if needed. Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
Chef’s note:
Homemade nut milks are free from additives and provide a fresh flavor. You can strain them for a smoother result or keep the pulp for extra fiber. Store nuts in a cool pantry for the best results and measure by weight for consistency when making your own milk.
Serving suggestions
- Drink immediately after blending for the best texture and flavor.
- Pour into an insulated bottle for a grab-and-go breakfast.
- Use as a post-workout drink to replenish protein and antioxidants.
- Top with cacao nibs, chia seeds, or a few extra berries for texture and visual appeal.
- Pour into popsicle molds and freeze leftover smoothie for a healthy frozen treat.
Recipe FAQs
Yes. Blend and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Separation may occur—shake or stir before drinking.
Use any protein powder you enjoy. Unsweetened options allow you to control added sugars; a scoop that provides about 20 g protein is a good target.
Yes. The banana provides natural sweetness and creaminess; if omitted, consider adding a little sweetener or some ice to maintain texture.
Use oat or rice milk and make sure your protein powder is nut-free. Avoid coconut if advised to do so for tree-nut allergies.
More smoothie recipes
Explore other smoothie ideas for variety, including beet, cucumber-mint, strawberry-banana, and pumpkin-based options for seasonal twists and new flavors.
Recipe
Chocolate Blueberry Smoothie
Sally Cameron
Equipment
- blender
Ingredients
- 10 ounces almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 big handful baby spinach leaves
- 2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 banana
- 1 scoop protein powder (about 20 g protein)
Optional add-ins
- 2 teaspoons honey, zero-sugar honey, or sugar-free simple syrup (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
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