CHOCOLATE ALMOND MOCHA SMOOTHIE

CHOCOLATE ALMOND MOCHA SMOOTHIE

A protein-rich, creamy breakfast smoothie combining rich mocha flavors with nutty undertones

KEY INFO:

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5-10 minutes
• Servings: 1-2
• Difficulty: Easy
• Dietary: Adaptable for keto/vegan/vegetarian
• Calories: ~300-400 (varies with protein choice)

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

• Blender (standard or high-powered)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Alternative: Single-serve blender cup if available

INGREDIENTS:

Base:

• 1-1.5 cups (240-360ml) unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup (120ml) cold brew coffee or 2 espresso shots
• 1 scoop (30g) chocolate protein powder
• 1 tablespoon (15g) almond butter
• 1 tablespoon (5g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional)

Choose ONE creamy base:

• ½ medium avocado, frozen (keto-friendly)
• ½ banana, frozen (adds natural sweetness)
• ½ cup frozen cauliflower rice (neutral taste, adds thickness)

Optional add-ins:

• 1 cup spinach (invisible nutrition boost)
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 4-5 ice cubes
• Sugar-free sweetener to taste

METHOD:

1. Pour almond milk and cold coffee into blender liquids always first
2. Add protein powder, cocoa powder, and almond butter
3. Add your chosen creamy base (avocado/banana/cauliflower)
4. Add extracts and any optional ingredients
5. Blend on LOW for 30 seconds, then HIGH until completely smooth (about 1 minute)
6. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed

CRUCIAL TIPS:

• Layer ingredients: liquids first, powders second, frozen items last
• Use COLD coffee to maintain thick texture
• Start blending slowly to prevent protein powder clumping
• If using avocado, ensure it’s fully frozen for best texture

STORAGE & VARIATIONS:

Storage:

• Best consumed immediately
• Can pre-portion frozen ingredients in bags

Common Mistakes:

• Using room temperature coffee (makes smoothie thin)
• Adding too much liquid initially (start conservative)
• Over-blending (can make protein powder bitter)

Variations:

• Keto: Use avocado base, skip banana
• Vegan: Ensure protein powder is plant-based
• Extra Protein: Add an extra ½ scoop protein powder
• Nut-Free: Use coconut milk and sunflower butter

This smoothie packs a powerful protein punch while satisfying chocolate and coffee cravings. Perfect for busy mornings or post-workout nutrition.