Chocolate Date Protein Shake
Indulge in the deliciousness of a Chocolate Date Protein Shake! Made with whey protein, almond milk, Medjool dates, baby spinach, almonds, and cocoa powder, it’s a satisfying meal in a glass with 30 grams of protein. Quick, easy, and perfect for busy days!
This week, I’m coming in hot—or should I say cold 😉 with another dessert-worthy protein shake: my favorite chocolate date protein shake! It’s my go-to quick and easy breakfast. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, I can trust that it will keep me full until it’s time for lunch!
The blend of chocolate whey protein and cocoa powder makes this shake rich, indulgent, and incredibly tasty, while Medjool dates (AKA nature’s candy) add irresistible sweetness, eliminating the need for added sugars. And let’s not forget the boost of nutrients from hidden baby spinach!
Try this date-sweetened chocolate protein shake for your next breakfast or post-workout snack, and let me know what you think. If you’re looking for more e nutritious and delicious chocolate protein shake ideas, you’ll love my Hazelnut Protein Shake, Mocha Protein Shake, and Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake –enjoy!
Recipe highlights
- Super nutritious. Loaded with 30 grams of protein, this shake is perfect as a satisfying meal replacement. Plus, there’s no added sugar –the dates add the perfect natural sweetness.
- Kid-friendly. With its rich chocolate flavor, this shake is a great way to sneak some greens into your kids’ diet without them noticing.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs (vegan, nut-free) or experiment with fun flavor variations.
Ingredients you’ll need
- Milk. I typically make my protein shakes with unsweetened almond milk, but you can use any dairy-free milk (oat, coconut, cashew, etc.) or regular dairy milk.
- Chocolate whey protein. It adds rich chocolate flavor while boosting the protein. Opt for high-quality brands (see ‘Recipe Tips’ for recommendations).
- Baby spinach leaves. Sneaks in extra greens! I usually don’t bother measuring and just toss in a small handful. Substitute kale or other mild leafy greens if you prefer.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder. Makes your shake extra chocolatey! I prefer using Dutch process cocoa powder for its smooth, rich flavor.
- Pitted dates. These little gems add natural sweetness and a slight caramel flavor. They’re also a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Sliced almonds. Add a bit of nutty crunch, plus extra protein and healthy fats. Feel free to swap in almond butter, peanut butter, or even Nutella here if you prefer a creamier texture.
- Ice cubes. To thicken the shake and make it refreshingly frosty!
How to make a chocolate date protein shake
Step 1: Add to blender. Place the milk, chocolate whey protein, spinach, cocoa powder, pitted dates, sliced almonds, and ice cubes into your blender.
Step 2: Blend until smooth. Start blending on a low setting, then gradually increase to high and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Check consistency. If you prefer a thicker shake, add more ice cubes and blend again. For a thinner consistency, blend more milk until you reach your desired texture.
Step 4: Serve immediately. Pour your shake into a glass. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle cocoa powder over the top and enjoy!
Recipe recipe tips and FAQs
- Use high-quality protein powder. I’m pretty picky about taste and texture when it comes to whey protein. I used Puori Dark Chocolate Whey, and the results were fantastic. Earth Fed Muscle and Legion are a couple of other favorites.
- Adjust natural sweetness. After the initial blend, taste your shake. If it isn’t sweet enough, add an extra date or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Blend again to incorporate.
- Blender tips. For the creamiest results, I recommend using a high-powered blender like a Vitamix or Blendtec. However, any blender will work. Just blend longer if needed.
Variations
Here are some fun flavor variations for your date chocolate protein shake, each requiring only one or two extra ingredients:
- Chocolate banana – Add ripe banana for a creamy, sweet twist.
- Chocolate mocha – Add instant coffee or espresso powder for a coffee-flavored boost.
- Chocolate peanut butter – Add peanut butter or peanut butter powder for a rich, nutty flavor.
- Raspberry mint chocolate – Add frozen raspberries and a few fresh mint leaves (or a drop of peppermint extract).
- Almond Joy – Add almond butter and a few drops of coconut extract for a shake that tastes like the classic candy bar.
Make it a milkshake! While this is more of a nutritious protein shake, you can turn it into an indulgent milkshake by adding a scoop of chocolate ice cream. Blend it with the other ingredients for a creamy, protein-packed dessert.
Yes! If you have a nut allergy or prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the sliced almonds or substitute them with a tablespoon of seed butter, such as sunflower or tahini.
It’s easy! Use a plant-based chocolate protein powder instead of whey protein, like those from Vega or Orgain. Also, opt for plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk.
Storing instructions
Remember, this date protein shake is best enjoyed immediately. If you need to save it for later, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a quick stir before drinking. Avoid freezing.
More protein shake recipes
- Orange Creamsicle Protein Shake
- Blueberry Protein Shake
- Triple Berry Protein Shake
- Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Protein Shake
- Peppermint Patty Protein Shake
If you love this chocolate date smoothie, I would be so grateful if you could leave a 5-star 🌟 rating in the recipe card below. I love reading your comments and feedback!
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Chocolate Date Protein Shake
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 28 g chocolate whey protein
- ½ cup baby spinach leaves I usually don't measure and do a small handful
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder I use Dutch process cocoa powder for richness and flavor
- 2 pitted dates
- 1 tbsp sliced almonds you can also do a tbsp of nut butter
- ½ cup ice cubes adjust for desired texture
Instructions
- Add all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
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This looks like such a tasty and nourishing smoothie and something that will keep me full for a while!
Thank you Rachel! It’s really filling, I love it for a quick lunch. 🙂
Sounds fabulous. Easy to do and filled with goodness. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Linda! Enjoy!