Chunky Monkey Protein Smoothie (Vegan!)

This easy vegan Chunky Monkey Smoothie recipe is thick, chocolatey, and so delicious. It's naturally sweetened and packs 20 grams of plant protein... with NO protein powder! (Vegan, gluten-free, oil-free.)

This vegan chocolate Chunky Monkey Smoothie is so luxurious and full of plant-based protein. (Without the use of protein powder!)

One cup soy milk and 2 tablespoons peanut butter have about 8 grams of protein each. Then the antioxidant-rich cacao powder adds another 3 grams. Even the banana adds about a gram, which brings the total to a whopping 20 grams protein.

It provides sustaining energy as a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or energizing pick-me-up during the day. (Not to mention it's pretty healthy but tastes like an indulgent dessert - yes!)

Ingredients for Chunky Monkey Smoothie

For this recipe, you'll blend together in a high-speed blender:

• Soy milk: Or swap in another dairy-free milk of choice such as almond milk, cashew milk, coconut milk, etc.
• Ripe banana: Try to find one that is very ripe or over ripe. (Overripe bananas with lots of brown spots means it'll be sweeter.) You can also use frozen bananas or frozen sliced bananas to create an extra-creamy texture.
• Peanut butter: I use creamy and natural peanut butter. I haven't tested this with another nut butter such as almond butter, cashew butter, or sun butter, but I'm guessing they'd work great too. (Although it could alter the protein content and flavor.)
• Cacao powder: This is what provides the rich chocolate taste. Studies show raw cacao (pronounced "ca-COW") is rich in antioxidants. Plus it includes iron, magnesium, calcium, and is a natural mood elevator. But if you don't have cacao, simply substitute with unsweetened cocoa powder. (Be aware both cacao and cocoa powder contain caffeine.)
• Pure maple syrup: This is a great natural sweetener with tasty maple flavor. (But feel free to substitute dates or your own favorite sweetener if desired!)

Customizing

More flavor: I enjoy mine with vanilla and almond extract added to the mixture for more flavor.

More protein: If you'd like to add even more protein, go ahead and include one scoop chocolate protein powder, or a dollop of vegan Greek yogurt.

Other additions: Add maca powder, ashwaganda powder, ice cubes, or whatever else sounds great.

Serving

Garnish: Enjoy as is, or top your glass with cacao nibs, vegan chocolate chips, or even coconut whipped cream before serving.

Versatile: This smoothie is great as a protein-rich healthy breakfast, mid-day boost, or post-workout snack.

Make it a smoothie bowl! You can also enjoy this as a smoothie bowl with Peanut Butter Granola, coconut flakes, sliced banana, walnuts, or your own favorite toppings.

For more inspiration, also browse all vegan drink recipes.

If you're enjoying this vegan Chunky Monkey Protein Smoothie recipe, also check out:

• Bedtime Golden Turmeric Milk
• Vegan Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats
• Healthy Vegan Chocolate Milkshake

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