This chocolate oatmeal smoothie recipe is perfect for breakfast because cocoa is a natural source of caffeine and the other ingredients work together to keep you healthy and full.
Chocolate for breakfast? I vote yes! Woah, woah…put down the snickers bar. I’m talking about unsweetened, antioxidant-rich cocoa powder.
I use cocoa powder for this reason (and it’s many other benefits) in many of my smoothie recipes like the Low-Carb Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie, Vegan Strawberry Mint Smoothie, and Chocolate Cherry Protein Smoothie.
Not only is cocoa a natural source of caffeine (a morning’s best friend) but when combined with ripe berries and bananas it becomes a cool, creamy, and deliciously healthy breakfast. Want more?
I thought so! When I make smoothies, I like to prep my ingredients ahead of time so I can put everything together quickly in the morning. Freezing ingredients in individual bags works wonders!
And if you’re not prepared ahead of time, don’t worry! Most of these ingredients are things you probably already have on hand or can substitute easily.
I try to make all my recipes easy to substitute so you can use what you have available. Cooking from your pantry and fridge instead of the grocery store saves you time and money! Some of my most popular recipes like Butternut Squash Breakfast Skillet, Vietnamese Shrimp Salad, and Cauliflower Vegetable Fried Rice have so many substitute possibilities, so don’t be afraid to make changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is cocoa powder good for you?
High in Flavanoids: Cocoa contains a powerful antioxidant known as flavanoids that may help reduce blood pressure, lower your risk of stroke and heart disease.
Boosts Serotonin Levels: When cocoa is consumed, the body releases serotonin, a hormone that helps reduce stress and can increase your mood.
Nutrient-Rich: Cocoa is a very concentrated source of nutrients including magnesium, copper, and iron.
Why do you add oats to your smoothies?
Oats are whole grain, rich in fiber, and also make smoothies thicker and filling. You can add raw oats to your smoothie or soak them in milk or water overnight for a smoother consistency.
Can you taste the spinach?
Honestly no. Baby spinach has a pretty neutral flavor to begin with, and any fruit you add will neutralize vegetable taste, especially banana. You’re also only adding in 2 cups which blends down to such a small percentage of the smoothie, it adds tons of nutrients but doesn’t take away any natural sweetness.
This chocolate oatmeal smoothie is one of my favorite breakfasts! It’s quick to make, delicious, and packed full of protein and nutrients. Just what I need to fuel my workouts and my day as a busy working mom.
Your straw is waiting.
Chocolate Oatmeal Smoothie
Ingredients
- ½ cup berries of choice ((strawberries,blueberries, etc.))
- ½ banana
- ¼ cup oats
- 2 cups spinach (or any leafy greens)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon flaxseed (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- ½ cup water
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ice (to thicken)
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a high speed blender and puree until smooth.
Loved it, How can something so healthy taste so lovely! :) I look forward to checking out more of your smoothies
Glad you enjoyed it!
Absolutely delicious. Thanks a lot
So glad you enjoyed it Peter!
What brand of protein powder do you use? Thanks!
You should make lactation recipes with oats, flaxseed and brewers yeast
I’m a chocoholic, this is perfect for me. Love the flavor combinations here.
You and me both Ali! I love the excuse to have chocolate at breakfast. ;)
Love this smoothie
So glad you like it!
Ah, confession to make: I do eat chocolate for breakfast. The bad kind!! This, on the other hand, looks gorgeous… deliciously creamy, chocolatey and filled with essential nutrients! Unfortunately I broke my blender making watermelon sorbet last week… argh. As soon as I replace it, this is first on the blender menu! Thanks for the gorgeous recipe :)
Oooo watermelon sorbet!! Sorry it broke but that does sound tasty!! Let me know what you think when you get to try this. :-)