A creamy, chocolatey smoothie packed with raspberries, bananas, and wholesome goodness!
Healthy Chocolate Raspberry Banana Smoothie: A Decadent Protein-Packed Favorite
I created my Healthy Chocolate Raspberry Banana Smoothie because chocolate and raspberries will always be one of my favorite flavor combos—rich, a little tart, and so good together. I use cacao a lot for its antioxidants and deeper chocolate flavor, and I’ve been wanting a smoothie that’s high in protein but still tastes amazing. This one is super satisfying and on the thinner side, which I actually love. If you prefer it thicker, using a fully frozen banana makes a big difference in creaminess. It’s great after a workout or as a quick breakfast, and if you like things a little sweeter, blending in a couple slices of pineapple works perfectly.
Why You’ll Love This Smoothie
Protein-Packed: With chia seeds, peanut butter, and optional protein powder, this smoothie is perfect for post-workout recovery or a filling snack.
Rich and Creamy: The cacao adds a deep, chocolatey flavor that feels indulgent without the guilt.
Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness with agave or a slice of pineapple to suit your taste.
Vegan-Friendly: Made entirely with plant-based ingredients, it’s a great option for vegan diets.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings or on-the-go fuel.
Cacao vs. Cocoa: What’s the Difference?
While cacao and cocoa come from the same source—the seeds of the cacao tree—their processing sets them apart:
- Cacao: This is the raw, unprocessed form of chocolate. It’s minimally heated, preserving its natural nutrients like antioxidants, magnesium, and iron. It has a bold, slightly bitter chocolate flavor and is considered a superfood.
- Cocoa: Cocoa is roasted and processed at higher temperatures, which can diminish some of its nutritional benefits. It’s often used in desserts and may contain added sugar or milk solids, giving it a sweeter, milder flavor.
Ingredient Highlight: Raspberries
Raspberries are a nutrient-dense fruit that bring both flavor and function to healthier smoothies. They’re especially high in fiber compared to other berries, which helps with fullness and supports digestion. Raspberries also contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that give them their vibrant color and are linked to anti-inflammatory benefits. Their natural tartness balances richer ingredients and enhances chocolate flavors without needing extra sweetness. Fresh or frozen, raspberries blend thick and smooth, making them a smart choice for creamy, balanced smoothies.
Madly Delicious Must-Know Tips and Questions
- For Extra Sweetness: Toss in a slice or two of fresh pineapple or an extra drizzle of agave to enhance the natural sweetness.
- Blending Tip: Add the liquid ingredients first to help the blender process everything smoothly.
- Consistency Control: For a thicker smoothie, reduce the oat milk or add more frozen fruit.
Can I use a different milk?
Yes! Almond, soy, coconut, or any plant-based milk will work perfectly in this recipe.
What can I substitute for yogurt?
You can use extra banana for creaminess or a splash of canned coconut milk for richness.
Is cacao the same as cocoa powder?
Not exactly—cacao is the raw, unprocessed form, while cocoa powder is typically roasted and may contain added sugars or milk solids.
Let’s Dish About Cacao: Did You Know?
Cacao traces back to the ancient Maya and Aztecs of Mesoamerica, who valued it so highly that cacao beans were used as currency. The Maya prepared it as a foamy, bitter drink often flavored with spices, while the Aztecs believed it carried energizing, almost magical properties. Its reputation as a “food of the gods” actually comes from the Aztec word xocolātl, the origin of the word chocolate. So your smoothie has roots in one of the oldest and most treasured ingredients in the world.
Feeling like something chocolatey yet wholesome? Try this Healthy Chocolate Raspberry Banana Smoothie!
I’d love to see how yours turns out—tag me on Instagram @madly__delicious with #MadlyDelicious and #UnleashTheDelicious to share your creations!
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Healthy Chocolate Raspberry Banana Smoothie
Equipment
- Blender
Ingredients
- 1 banana (use frozen if you want a thicker smoothie)
- ½ cup frozen raspberries
- 1 cup oat milk (or any plant-based milk of choice)
- ½ cup plain, unsweetened plant-based yogurt
- 2 tbsp natural peanut butter (or nut butter of choice)
- 2 tbsp cacao or unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1-2 scoops vanilla or chocolate vegan protein powder (optional)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp agave or pure maple syrup
- 5-8 ice cubes
Instructions
- Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine 1 banana, ½ cup frozen raspberries, 1 cup oat milk, ½ cup plain unsweetened yogurt, 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter, 2 tablespoons cacao, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 1 tablespoon agave, and 5-8 ice cubes. If using, add 1-2 scoops vanilla or chocolate protein powder.Tip: This smoothie works great with either fresh or frozen banana. If you want it extra cold and thick but don’t have time to fully freeze your banana, pop a peeled one in the freezer for 20–30 minutes for a quick chill.
- Adjust Consistency: Blend until smooth. If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash of additional oat milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately! For garnish, sprinkle some cacao nibs or raspberries on top.
I love this smoothie it helps me meet my fiber and protein goals and it’s so tasty! I did omit the milk which cuts some of the protein but it was too thin for my preference.
Hi Andria, I really appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment. Thanks so much for the feedback! I am glad you enjoyed it. To help make the smoothie thicker, you could use a frozen banana, along with the frozen raspberries and then throw some extra ice in there. May be worth a try!!