If you fall into any of these groups, keep reading (or hit “jump to recipe”) — because this high-protein chocolate shake was made for you:

  • You love the combo of chocolate banana
  • You’re trying to eat (or drink) more protein
  • You love easy, delicious recipes
Two glasses of healthy, high-protein chocolate banana smoothies with pink-striped straws, garnished with banana slices and cocoa nibs, are placed on a wooden board. Bananas and a small bowl of cocoa nibs are nearby.

There’s something about a thick, creamy chocolate shake that feels like a special treat — and this one absolutely delivers. It blends up silky smooth thanks to frozen banana and Greek yogurt, with a satisfying cocoa flavor and zero added sugar (when you use a Greek yogurt sweetened with stevia or monk fruit). And the best part? Each glass packs about 20 grams of protein and 11 grams of fiber to keep you full and energized for hours.

It’s the protein-packed cousin to my Healthiest Chocolate Milkshake — which went soooo viral on social that I created a Salted Caramel Milkshake you’ll definitely want to try next!

Top-down view of a blender containing ice cubes, banana, yogurt, and cocoa powder—perfect for a Healthy High-Protein Chocolate Smoothie—surrounded by bananas, chia seeds, and cocoa powder on a light surface. No added sugar required!.
A blender with a creamy brown Healthy High-Protein Chocolate Smoothie sits on a countertop surrounded by bananas, chia seeds, cacao nibs, sliced bananas, and cocoa powder. A striped cloth is visible on the side.
A healthy, high-protein chocolate smoothie topped with cacao nibs and banana slices, garnished with two pink-striped straws. No added sugar—just wholesome ingredients and delicious flavor in every sip. Banana slices are visible in the background.
A tall glass of healthy, high-protein chocolate smoothie topped with banana slices and cacao nibs, with a pink-striped straw. Ingredients like bananas, chia seeds, and cocoa powder are arranged around on a beige surface.
A tall glass of healthy, high-protein chocolate smoothie topped with banana slices and cacao nibs, with a pink-striped straw. Ingredients like bananas, chia seeds, and cocoa powder are arranged around on a beige surface.

Smoothies and shakes are one of the easiest ways to load up on nutrition — toss everything in a blender and you’re done. Some fan favorites from my smoothie lineup: my 3-Ingredient Protein Smoothie, Strawberry Shortcake Smoothie, Longevity Smoothie, Brain-Boosting Smoothie, and for fellow chocolate lovers — try my Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie and Snickers Smoothie Bowl!

It’s perfect for breakfast, a post-workout refuel, or even a smart afternoon pick-me-up when that chocolate craving hits!

Two tall glasses of healthy chocolate banana smoothies with no added sugar and cacao nibs sit on a wooden board. Surrounded by bananas, cocoa powder, and more cacao nibs—it's the perfect high-protein treat.

Looking for more ways to start your day with 20g+ protein? check out these 10 high-protein breakfast recipes here!

A tall glass of healthy, high-protein chocolate smoothie topped with banana slices and cacao nibs, with a pink-striped straw. Ingredients like bananas, chia seeds, and cocoa powder are arranged around on a beige surface.
(5 stars) 5 ratings

High-Protein Chocolate Shake (20g Protein, No Added Sugar)

A thick, creamy, chocolatey shake that delivers 20g protein and 11g fiber — no added sugar, no fuss, just delicious nourishment in every sip.
Yield: 1 shake
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
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Ingredients
 

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, or milk of choice
  • 1 frozen banana
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • ¾ cup vanilla Greek yogurt*, single-serve container
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 5 ice cubes
Ingredient Details to Know
*I use a vanilla Greek yogurt without added sugar; instead it’s sweetened with stevia or monk fruit.

Instructions
 

  • Add everything to the blender: Pour the almond milk into your blender first, then add the frozen banana, cocoa powder, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and ice cubes.
  • Blend and enjoy: Blend on medium until thick and creamy, being careful to not over-blend so it doesn't thin out.

Notes

Flavor Variations:
• Vanilla Protein Smoothie: Omit the cocoa powder and use vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt, which the recipe already calls for. Increase the vanilla extract to ¾ to 1 teaspoon, depending on how strong you like the vanilla flavor.
• Berry Protein Smoothie: Omit the cocoa powder and swap the frozen banana for 1½ cups frozen mixed berries. You’ll only need 2 to 3 ice cubes with this version. Use a mixed berry-flavored Greek yogurt instead of vanilla for even more berry flavor.
• Strawberry Protein Smoothie: Omit the cocoa powder and swap the banana for 2 cups frozen sliced strawberries (or pair the frozen banana with 1 cup strawberries). Use a strawberry-flavored Greek yogurt instead of vanilla.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter: Stick with the official recipe and add 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter for a richer, nutty twist.
Author: Joy Bauer, MS, RDN, CDN
Course: Breakfast, Snack

Nutrition Information per serving

Calories: 310Carbohydrates: 48gProtein: 20gTotal Fat: 8g— Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g— Saturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 240mgPotassium: 990mgFiber: 11gTotal Sugar: 20g— Natural Sugar: 20g— Added Sugar: 0gCalcium: 670mgIron: 3.3mg
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.
I’m hoping you loved this recipe! If you made it and want to share feedback, I’d be so grateful to hear from you. Please leave a review below or tag @joybauer on Instagram!