Chunky Monkey Protein Smoothie (Vegan!)

This easy vegan Chunky Monkey Smoothie recipe is thick, chocolatey, and satisfying. It's naturally sweetened and packs 18 grams of plant protein... with NO protein powder! (Vegan, gluten-free, refined 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 cocoa powder and banana add a couple more grams, bringing the total to a whopping 18 grams protein. (Toss in a scoop of your favorite protein powder if you want even more!)

This rich, silky smoothie 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. (Win!)

Ingredients for Chunky Monkey Smoothie

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

• Soy milk: I use organic, unsweetened soy milk. Or swap in another dairy-free milk like almond milk, cashew milk, coconut milk, etc. (This will slightly change the protein amount, however.)
• Ripe banana: Use frozen sliced banana if possible, as these create a creamier texture. Also try to use one that's very ripe or overripe. (Overripe bananas with lots of brown spots mean it'll be sweeter.)
• Peanut butter: I use creamy and natural peanut butter. You can swap in another nut butter such as almond butter, cashew butter, or sun butter, but this alters the flavor and protein content.
• Cocoa powder: This is what provides the rich chocolate taste. I use organic Dutch-processed unsweetened cocoa powder. Or you can swap in cacao powder if you have it. Studies show raw cacao is rich in antioxidants, plus includes iron, magnesium, calcium, and is a natural mood elevator.
• Pure maple syrup: I use a couple teaspoons but adjust the amount of sweetness as you see fit. (Or substitute softened dates or your own favorite sweetener if desired.)
• Vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt: I use fine grain sea salt. Just a tiny pinch helps bloom and bring out all the flavors.

Customizing

More protein: For even more protein and a thicker consistency, include up to one scoop chocolate protein powder or dollop of vegan Greek yogurt.

Other additions: Add chia seeds, ground flax seeds, mushroom powder, ice cubes, a handful of fresh baby spinach, or whatever else sounds good. A very tiny splash of almond extract can be added as well, but be careful when adding as this can quickly overpower.

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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