Sometimes you just need something thick and chocolatey to get through the day. This Chunky Monkey Protein Shake hits that sweet spot perfectly. It feels like a decadent dessert from your favorite ice cream shop. Best of all, it is ready in just five minutes.
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy reset. You get all the flavors of banana, walnuts, and chocolate. It is filling enough to be a quick breakfast. You can also enjoy it as a satisfying post-workout reward. Your whole family will love how creamy it tastes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This shake is a winner because it uses simple pantry staples. You likely have most of these ingredients in your kitchen right now. It is perfect for those busy mornings when you are rushing out the door. You get a massive protein boost without any complicated cooking steps.
The texture is what really makes this special. Adding ice gives it an ice cream-like consistency that feels very indulgent. It is a great way to use up those brown bananas in your freezer. Even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds of this treat.
Simple Method
Making this shake is incredibly easy and beginner-friendly. You just toss your base ingredients into a high-speed blender. The key is to blend the liquids and powder first for maximum smoothness. Then, you simply pulse in your crunchy toppings at the very end.
This method ensures you get those satisfying chunks in every single sip. You do not need any fancy equipment to get great results. Just a standard blender and five minutes of your time will do. You will feel like a pro smoothie maker in no time.
What You Need
These ingredients are fresh, simple, and easy to find at any grocery store.
- 1 large frozen banana, sliced
- 1 scoop (30g) chocolate whey or casein protein powder
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips
- 0.5 cup ice cubes
Step-by-Step
- Place the frozen banana slices, protein powder, almond milk, and peanut butter into a high-speed blender.
- Add ice cubes to the blender jar to achieve a thicker, ice-cream like viscosity.
- Process on high speed for 45 to 60 seconds until the base mixture is completely smooth.
- Add the chopped walnuts and dark chocolate chips to the blender.
- Pulse the blender 3 to 4 times to incorporate the solids without fully pulverizing them to ensure a chunky texture.
- Transfer the mixture to a chilled glass and serve immediately with a spoon or wide-diameter straw.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this shake in a chilled glass to keep it frosty. It is so thick that you might want a spoon. Use a wide-diameter straw to catch those walnut and chocolate bits. This is a wonderful treat for a lazy weekend morning.
Pair it with a side of fresh berries for more color. You can also serve it in a bowl as a smoothie bowl. Top it with extra banana slices and a drizzle of honey. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your delicious creation.
Keep It Fresh
This shake is definitely best enjoyed immediately after blending. If you let it sit, the ice will melt and lose its thickness. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to two hours. However, the texture will become much thinner over time.
If you want to prep ahead, freeze your banana slices in baggies. Measure out your walnuts and chocolate chips into small containers. This makes your morning routine even faster. Just grab, blend, and go for a stress-free start.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the frozen banana because it provides the creamy base.
- Avoid over-blending at the end or you will lose the chunky texture.
- Swap almond milk for oat milk for a nut-free liquid base.
- Freeze your banana slices flat on a tray so they don’t clump.
- For a holiday twist, add a dash of peppermint extract in December.
- Upgrade your shake by using high-quality dark chocolate for better flavor.
- Use a chilled glass to keep the shake thick for longer.
- Add more ice if you prefer a consistency closer to soft-serve.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a milder, nutty flavor.
- Use a dairy-free protein powder to make this completely vegan-friendly.
- Add a handful of fresh summer strawberries for a fruity chocolate mix.
- Replace walnuts with pecans for a buttery, southern-style twist.
Quick Answers
Can I use a room temperature banana?
You can, but the shake will not be as thick. Frozen bananas are the secret to that creamy texture. If you use fresh, add an extra handful of ice.
What protein powder works best?
Chocolate whey is great for a smooth finish. Casein protein actually makes the shake even thicker and fluffier. Choose your favorite brand for the best taste.
Will kids actually eat this?
Absolutely, because it tastes just like a milkshake. It is a great way to get extra nutrition into them. They will love the chocolate chips hidden inside.
I hope this Chunky Monkey Protein Shake makes your healthy reset feel like a total treat. It is the perfect way to satisfy those chocolate cravings any time of year. Happy blending!
— Alex
Ingredients
- 1 large frozen banana, sliced
- 1 scoop (30g) chocolate whey or casein protein powder
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips
- 0.5 cup ice cubes
Instructions
- Place the frozen banana slices, protein powder, almond milk, and peanut butter into a high-speed blender.
- Add ice cubes to the blender jar to achieve a thicker, ice-cream like viscosity.
- Process on high speed for 45 to 60 seconds until the base mixture is completely smooth.
- Add the chopped walnuts and dark chocolate chips to the blender.
- Pulse the blender 3 to 4 times to incorporate the solids without fully pulverizing them to ensure a chunky texture.
- Transfer the mixture to a chilled glass and serve immediately with a spoon or wide-diameter straw.
