Choco Matcha Protein Smoothie

Name: Choco Matcha Protein Smoothie
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 ripe banana; 1 cup almond milk; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon matcha powder; 1 scoop protein powder (chocolate or vanilla); 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness); Ice cubes as needed

Highlighted under: Nourish & Refresh Recipes

I absolutely love starting my day with a refreshing and nourishing green smoothie, and this Choco Matcha Protein Smoothie is my latest obsession. Combining the rich taste of chocolate with the earthy notes of matcha, this smoothie not only satisfies my chocolate cravings but also provides a healthy dose of protein. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s a quick way to fuel my morning or recharge in the afternoon. Plus, it’s super easy to customize based on what I have on hand!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-30T20:06:27.458Z

When I first tried blending matcha and chocolate together, I was pleasantly surprised by the harmonious flavor. The subtle bitterness of the matcha perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a deliciously balanced drink. I love adding ripe bananas for creaminess and a natural sweetness, which also gives a fantastic texture.

To make it even more nutritious, I often add a scoop of protein powder, making it a great post-workout option. I found that blending everything with almond milk enhances the creaminess, resulting in a smoothie that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with earthy matcha
Creamy texture is perfect for sipping or slurping
Packed with protein to keep you energized

Ingredient Insights

The banana in this smoothie serves multiple purposes: it provides natural sweetness, a creamy texture, and essential nutrients like potassium and dietary fiber. When selecting a banana, aim for one that's ripe with brown spots, as it will enhance the overall sweetness without needing excessive added sugars. If you find yourself without a banana, you can substitute it with a small avocado for a creamier consistency, but keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile.

The matcha powder is a star player in this smoothie, offering a unique and earthy taste while boasting numerous health benefits, including antioxidants. When choosing matcha, opt for ceremonial grade for a smoother, richer flavor. If matcha is hard to find, a good alternative could be spirulina or even a minty herb like fresh mint leaves, but this may change the flavor significantly, lending more of an herbal note.

Cocoa powder not only brings that rich chocolate flavor but also packs a punch of health benefits, including antioxidants and magnesium. Choosing unsweetened cocoa powder allows you to control the sweetness of your smoothie better. If you're looking for variation or lower caffeine content, you may also consider carob powder, which provides a sweeter taste without the bitterness of cocoa.

Blending Techniques

For best results when blending, start by adding the liquid ingredients like almond milk to the blender first. This helps the blades move smoothly through the ingredients, preventing the thicker items like the banana and protein powder from clumping. If you have a high-powered blender, using it will yield a silkier texture, while a standard blender may need a little more time for a smooth consistency, usually blending for about 30 to 45 seconds on high.

If you notice that your smoothie is too thick after blending, don’t fret! Instead of adding more liquid, consider adjusting the texture with extra ice cubes. They help achieve that frosty, slushy feel without diluting the flavor too much. Conversely, if your mixture is too runny, blend in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or another scoop of protein powder which will thicken it up while enhancing taste.

It's crucial to blend until the mixture is completely smooth and glossy; this indicates that the ingredients are fully incorporated. Any chunks or grit mean the blending process wasn’t complete. If you encounter lumps after blending, simply continue blending for another 15 seconds. If your blender has different speed settings, a higher speed is recommended for the final blending stage.

Ingredients:

Smoothie Base

1 ripe banana
1 cup almond milk
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 teaspoon matcha powder
1 scoop protein powder (chocolate or vanilla)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
Ice cubes as needed

Mix all the ingredients together for a deliciously creamy smoothie!

Instructions:

Blend the Ingredients

In a blender, combine the banana, almond milk, cocoa powder, matcha powder, protein powder, and honey or maple syrup if using. Add a handful of ice cubes for a chilled smoothie.

Blend Until Smooth

Blend on high until smooth and creamy. You want a consistent texture without any chunks. If it’s too thick, add a bit more almond milk; if it’s too thin, add more ice.

Serve and Enjoy

Pour the smoothie into two glasses, and enjoy immediately. You can also top it with some chia seeds or cacao nibs for extra texture!

Enjoy your nutritious and delicious Choco Matcha Protein Smoothie!

Pro Tips

For an extra boost, you can add a tablespoon of nut butter, which also enhances the creaminess and makes it more satisfying.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Choco Matcha Protein Smoothie chilled enhances its refreshing qualities. To elevate your serving experience, you can garnish the smoothie with chia seeds or cacao nibs, adding a delightful crunch and extra nutrients. I also love using a transparent glass to show off the beautiful green and brown swirls created by the matcha and cocoa. You could even include a sprinkle of cinnamon for added depth in flavor.

For a quick breakfast on-the-go, you can freeze individual portions in mason jars the night before. This way, they can double as ice packs in your cooler, maintaining their chill until you're ready to enjoy. Just give them a good shake or blend again briefly if they’ve separated upon thawing, which is perfectly normal.

If you want to increase the nutritional profile, consider adding a handful of spinach or kale to the blend. The flavor remains subtle, while you gain additional vitamins and minerals. This is a great way to sneak in some leafy greens without compromising the overall taste, making it a fantastic option for kids who might be picky about their greens.

Make-Ahead and Storage

While smoothies are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare your ingredients ahead of time. Pre-portion them into freezer bags, combining the banana, spinach, matcha, cocoa powder, and protein powder, and freeze. This lets you whip up a quick smoothie in the morning with minimal prep—just add almond milk and blend!

If you need to store leftover smoothie, do so in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The texture might slightly change due to separation, but simply shake or stir before drinking. Additionally, if you find that you have too much leftovers, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. You can then use these cubes in future smoothies to chill them without diluting flavors.

For those wanting a thicker shake-like consistency, consider making a smoothie bowl instead. Simply adjust the ratio of your almond milk down to about 1/2 cup, then top your smoothie with fruits, nuts, or granola. This variation turns your smoothie into a satisfying and hearty breakfast option that’s visually stunning and packed with toppings for added flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the protein powder?

Yes, you can use any type of protein powder you prefer or skip it altogether for a lighter smoothie.

→ Is matcha safe during pregnancy?

Moderate consumption of matcha is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but it's always best to consult with your doctor.

→ Can I make this smoothie vegan?

Absolutely! Just use plant-based protein powder and make sure to use maple syrup instead of honey.

→ How long will this smoothie last in the fridge?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.