In need of a high protein high fiber smoothie that tastes like a milkshake? This Easy Chocolate Cherry Espresso Protein Shake is what you need! Frozen tart cherries give this a rich creamy texture and AE Dairy Hi, Protein chocolate milk helps this pack 44 grams of protein. 12 grams of fiber will help you stay full and satisfy your sweet tooth while getting in necessary nutrients. Win win!
A Quick Look At The Recipe
Recipe: Easy Chocolate Cherry Espresso Protein Shake
Ready In: 5 minutes
Serves: 1 servings (easily double!)
Protein per Serving: 44 grams
Staple Ingredients: chocolate milk, frozen cherries, protein powder, espresso
What Makes It Special: with a milkshake like texture and a rich chocolate flavor, this feels decadent enough to be a chocolate shake but with wholesome ingredients you can feel good about! Chia seeds and nut butter offer a source of healthy fats and fiber. Kids will also love this, leave out the espresso and up the chocolate milk.
Key Smoothie Ingredients
Frozen Banana: Adds natural sweetness and creaminess, frozen is a must! Slice in half before freezing for easier blending.
Frozen Red Tart Cherries: tart, fruity flavor that balances the chocolate, keep them frozen for a thick texture.
Chocolate Milk: Creamy chocolate base with 20g protein. Swap with any chocolate or non-dairy milk you like.
Espresso: Brings a rich, bold coffee kick. Cool before adding to avoid. If desired, omit and add extra milk.
Chocolate Protein Powder: Boosts protein and enhances the chocolate flavor, use your favorite brand. I like Equip foods chocolate protein the best!
Nut Butter: Adds healthy fats and richness. Peanut or almond butter both work great here.
Chia Seeds: A superfood boost of fiber and omega-3s, and they help slightly thicken the shake.
How to Make The Protein Shake
Let’s talk a little about how to make the Cherry Chocolate Smoothie (The printable instructions are in the recipe card below.)
Quick Overview:
- Add all ingredients to a blender and pulse until smooth!
- Add all ingredients to a blender and blend at high speed for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed and enjoy immediately.
Make It Kid Friendly
Kids will love this chocolate protein shake and you can feel good about the wholesome ingredients, protein, and fiber. To make this kid friendly, omit the espresso and increase the chocolate milk to 1/2 cup!
Recipe Variations
- Black Forest: Add a spoonful of cocoa powder and top with a little whipped cream for a dessert-style shake.
- Vanilla Cherry Latte: Swap chocolate protein powder for vanilla, then add a splash of almond extract for a cherry-vanilla flavor.
- Extra Energy: Stir in a scoop of collagen peptides or an extra shot of espresso if you need more staying power.
High Protein Cherry Chocolate Smoothie
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Frozen Banana
- 1 cup Frozen red tart cherries
- 1/3 cup AE Dairy Hi, Protein! Chocolate milk, or non-dairy milk
- 1 shot Espresso , cooled
- 1 scoop Chocolate protein powder
- 1 heaping tbsp Nut butter
- 1 tsp Chia seeds
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender and blend at high speed for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed and enjoy immediately.1 Frozen Banana, 1 cup Frozen red tart cherries, 1/3 cup AE Dairy Hi, Protein! Chocolate milk, 1 shot Espresso , 1 scoop Chocolate protein powder, 1 heaping tbsp Nut butter , 1 tsp Chia seeds
Notes
- Espresso swap: No espresso? Use strong brewed coffee or 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder. Or omit and add extra chocolate milk!
- Boost the protein: Add Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or an extra half scoop of protein powder.
- Make it thicker: Use frozen banana slices and a handful of ice cubes if you prefer a thicker shake.
- Toppings: Sprinkle with cacao nibs, shaved dark chocolate, or a pinch of sea salt for texture and flavor contrast.
Nutrition
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Storage & Serving
Serving –
Pour the shake into a tall glass or insulated cup and enjoy right away.
Storage –
If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed jar or shaker bottle in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The shake may separate slightly as it sits, so just give it a good shake or stir before drinking.
Make-Ahead Tip –
For rushed mornings, portion the cherries, bananas, chia seeds and protein powder into freezer bags ahead of time. When you’re ready, just add milk and espresso and blend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Brewed coffee works fine, though espresso gives the shake a stronger, richer flavor. If using coffee, go for a dark roast and chill it before blending or make a concentrated mix with instant coffee.
Any chocolate or vanilla protein powder will work. Chocolate makes the shake extra indulgent and pairs with the chocolate milk, while vanilla lets the cherries shine.
Frozen cherries give the shake its creamy, frosty texture. If you only have fresh cherries, just pit them and add a handful of ice cubes to chill and thicken the shake. I would recommend using all frozen fruit for the creamiest texture.
Add a drizzle of maple syrup, honey, or even a date or two before blending if you like it sweeter.
Tools I Recommend
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- High Powered Blender: I love this powerful yet affordable blenders for smoothies, sauces, soups, and more. This is one I’ve had for a while. – it is perfect for blending the cottage cheese.
- Rubber Spatula – a must have! I like these because they don’t come apart so I don’t have to worry about water getting inside the spatula and causing mold.
- Protein Powder – this Equip foods chocolate protein is my go-to, it doesn’t have the chalky flavor of aftertaste.
Did you try this recipe?
Let me know what you thought by leaving a comment below and sharing your final dish on Instagram, Facebook, & Pinterest!
Cheers!
-Rachel
