Chocolate smoothie made with banana, cocoa powder and milk for a thick, creamy and easy breakfast or snack.

This chocolate banana smoothie has a rich cocoa flavor with a smooth and creamy texture made with simple ingredients in just a few minutes.

I make this cocoa smoothie with frozen banana for a naturally sweet and thick drink that tastes like a chocolate milkshake.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Thick and creamy texture
Rich chocolate banana flavor
Easy 5 minute smoothie

Ingredients you need

Frozen banana: Use 1 large very ripe frozen banana for a naturally sweet flavor and a thick creamy texture.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a rich chocolate flavor without making the smoothie overly sweet.
Milk: You can use whole milk, almond milk or oat milk. For a creamier smoothie, replace half of the milk with Greek yogurt.
Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and helps enhance the chocolate flavor.
Honey or maple syrup: Helps balance the bitterness of the cocoa powder and gives the smoothie a softer sweeter taste.
Pinch of salt: Optional, but it helps bring out the chocolate flavor and makes the smoothie taste richer.

Add-ins

Greek yogurt: For a thicker smoothie with extra protein.
Peanut butter: Adds a richer and more filling chocolate peanut butter flavor.
Espresso powder: A small pinch boosts the chocolate flavor without making the smoothie taste like coffee.
Chocolate protein powder: Great for a more filling breakfast smoothie.
Chia seeds: Adds fiber and a slightly thicker texture.
Ice cubes: Perfect for a colder and frostier smoothie.

Tips Before You Start

Use a very ripe banana: A ripe banana gives the smoothie a naturally sweeter flavor and reduces bitterness from the cocoa powder.
Freeze the banana in slices: Frozen banana blends faster and gives a smoother texture.
Start with less milk: Add more milk gradually until you get the consistency you like.
Taste before serving: Add a little more honey or maple syrup if the cocoa flavor tastes too strong or bitter.
Blend long enough: Blend until completely smooth and creamy for the best chocolate smoothie texture.

How To Make Chocolate Smoothie

Add the frozen banana, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract, honey or maple syrup and a small pinch of salt to a blender.

Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a little more milk if the smoothie is too thick.

Taste the smoothie and add more sweetener if needed for a sweeter chocolate flavor.

Pour into a glass and serve immediately with extra cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top if desired.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate banana smoothie: Add an extra half banana for a sweeter and thicker smoothie.
Chocolate protein smoothie: Blend with chocolate protein powder for a more filling breakfast or post workout drink.
Peanut butter chocolate smoothie: Add 1 tablespoon of peanut butter for a richer flavor.
Healthy cocoa smoothie: Use almond milk and sweeten naturally with dates instead of maple syrup.
Mocha smoothie: Add a small shot of espresso or instant coffee to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Try my chocolate peanut butter smoothie for a richer and creamier chocolate version.

Recipe Questions

Can I make this chocolate smoothie without banana?

Yes, but the smoothie will be less creamy and naturally sweet.

What is the best milk for a chocolate smoothie?

Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but almond milk and oat milk also work well.

Can I use cacao powder instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, both work in this smoothie recipe.

How do I make the smoothie thicker?

Use less milk or add Greek yogurt and extra frozen banana.

Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?

This smoothie is best served fresh, but you can keep it in the fridge for a few hours.

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