This chocolate espresso protein smoothie comes together in 5 minutes and packs 39 grams of protein into every glass. Thick, creamy, and ready before your coffee finishes brewing.

Chocolate and coffee are some of the best flavor combinations of the world and one that I was first introduced to by my beautiful mother. Every family birthday celebration was centered around my mom’s famous “Duck Cake” which was simply a yellow cake baked in a duck-shaped pan. You see, my maiden name is Davis so my sisters and I grew up as the “Davis Ducklings.” (Don’t ask.)
Of course, the icing on the cake was my mom’s homemade chocolate coffee frosting. I’m not sure what it is about coffee but it takes the chocolate flavor to new heights.
The next time we have a family birthday party I will share the official Duck Cake with Chocolate Coffee Frosting recipe. In the meantime, here is a Chocolate Espresso Protein Smoothie you can indulge in on a daily basis. Packed with over 24 grams of protein per serving, this on-the-go meal in a glass will give you long-lasting energy all day long!
Ingredients

- Banana: Makes the smoothie creamy while adding natural sweetness.
- Cocoa powder: Full of natural anti-oxidants, it adds the punch of chocolate flavor.
- Instant espresso: Concentrated coffee flavor and a caffeine kick.
- Protein powder: Amps up the protein in the smoothie, keeping you full all morning long.
Easy Substitutions
- Make it dairy-free. You can use any non-dairy milk, like almond milk or oat milk, and try using coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
- Use different protein powders. I use chocolate protein powder to up the cocoa flavor, but you can use vanilla as well and it will still be a chocolate smoothie. You can also use flavorless and just add that protein! Whey based or plant based work.
- Don’t like banana? Not a problem. You can skip it entirely, but I’d recommend using another fruit. Apple and mango are my favorite for adding sweetness, frozen avocado for adding that creaminess.
How to Make a Chocolate Espresso Protein Smoothie

Step 1. Start by peeling your banana and adding it to your blender with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2. Add ice, then blend until smooth, adding more ice or milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Pour into glasses, serve, and enjoy your Chocolate Espresso Protein Smoothie!
Other Protein Smoothies to Try
- Strawberry Protein Smoothie
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Smoothie
- Coffee Banana Protein Smoothie
- High Protein Blueberry Kale Power Smoothie
- Peach Protein Smoothie
Drink It, Like It, Share It!
Did you try this smoothie? The next time you make it, snap a picture and share it to your socials. Tag @thelemonbowl and #thelemonbowl so we can admire and share your drink.

Your straw is waiting.
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a high speed blender and puree until smooth.
Liz’s Notes
For a thinner smoothie, skip the ice. For a thicker smoothie, add more ice.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
You can blend and freeze or refrigerate, but I recommend portioning out all of the ingredients and refrigerating the night before, then simply blend in the morning!
You can! You may want to use less milk or add more ice to keep the smoothie consistency thick and creamy.
You can use your favorite, but I like to use Orgain plant-based protein. Vanilla and chocolate both taste great!

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