Make this easy protein smoothie that tastes like a Wendy's Frosty in only five minutes! Originally published January 2017. Last updated January 2023.
A good workout can be it's own reward but if you need a little extra motivation, I highly recommend adding this beginner protein smoothie to your routine. I'll walk you through how to make it and share my pro tips for a lightning-fast process. Let's get into the details.
If you enjoy this recipe, you'll also love my immune-boosting orange smoothie as well as this green smoothie for glowing skin!
What You'll Need for this Recipe
Raw Dark Cocoa Powder provides true chocolatey flavor without excess sugar. There is some caffeine, though, so if you are sensitive to that or want to make this a Daniel Fast compliant smoothie, I recommend trying carob powder + a bit of maple syrup instead.
Almond Butter helps create smooth texture and provides the boost of protein in this smoothie. You can use the nut butter of your choice, crunchy or smooth!
Banana adds natural sweetness, energy in the form of carbohydrates, and fiber. I'm not big on bananas so I can assure you that the flavor isn't overpowering.
Almond Milk is the necessary liquid base but it adds mild nutty flavor and additional protein. You can swap in whatever milk you like.
Ice adds texture and chill but you can make it frosty with my next tip.
How to make a smoothie thick without ice? Use frozen produce. For this one, freeze the banana ahead of time and you can skip the ice!
Tips & Tools
Grab a blender as well as a cutting board and knife to bring everything together. This is a quick and easy smoothie and you could even break up the banana by hand, if needed. You'll also need a spoon for the cocoa powder. Lastly, I'm big on making small moments feel a bit more special so I love to sip my homemade smoothies through a glass straw. Sprinkle sliced almonds over top for extra flair!
Can I meal prep this smoothie? Yes. You can make it ahead of time and refrigerate for up to two days. Just keep in mind that some separation may occur--stir it up! Alternatively, you can use my frozen smoothie pack method to prep further in advance.
How to add more protein? I call this chocolatey nut butter smoothie a basic protein shake for beginners because it uses minimally processed ingredients and whole food protein sources. It's good for post-workout recovery but you can step things up by adding your favorite protein powder.
If you like this basic protein smoothie without protein powder and want to try a meal replacement shake, my dark chocolate salted protein smoothie is a natural next step with 26 grams protein and ample fiber!
Is this smoothie PCOS friendly?
This healthy copycat Wendy's frosty has a balance of protein, healthy fat, and fiber. This makes it a great option for people with PCOS who are looking to support healthy hormones and balanced blood sugar. Check the recipe card for full nutrition facts and my collection of PCOS meals.
Favorite High Protein Dishes
Peanut Butter & Jelly Smoothie Bowl
I hope you take this healthy shake for a swirl soon. And sharing is caring so be sure this pin this five-ingredient smoothie for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
Skinny Frosty Recipe
📖 Recipe
Chocolate Post-Workout Protein Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 banana
- 2 tablespoons raw dark cocoa powder or regular cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons almond butter or nut butter of your choice
- 1 cup milk
- ice
- sliced almonds (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Slice or break banana into chunks.
- Add banana pieces to blender with cocoa powder, nut butter, milk, and ice to your desired consistency and temperature.
- Pulse all ingredients until smooth, liquified, and uniform. Pour into a glass and garnish with almonds, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Nutrition
Katrina Adams says
I must definitely try this Jazz!! Anything that taste like Wendy’s frosty has to be good!!
Jessica says
Yum! I love this flavor combo and the recipe is so simple!
Kenya Rae says
I just got a new ninja smoothie blender and I’ve been using a similar recipe. Gonna do this one in regular rotation now too!
Aline says
This is perfect inspiration for after the holidays!! Looks yummy!!
Brittany Fiero says
OMG, sometimes I crave a Wendy's frosty because I grew up on them when my mom tirelessly worked at the restaurant. This looks so delicious and healthy!!! I'll have to try this and share it with my mom.
Marta says
I REALLY need to start working out! In the meantime, I'll make and drink this smoothie so I FEEL like I worked out before.
Keren Charles says
That look so yummy! And I love peanut butter and banana, so it is the perfect combination for me. I can't wait to try it out.
Irina says
Oh girl this looks so good. My girls love making smoothies. Ive never thought of adding peanut butter to my smoothie but that's a brilliant idea.
Robin Rue says
This smoothie looks absolutely delicious. I have been meaning to make more of these for my morning routine.
Sheila Echols-Smesny says
This looks divine! I like the dairy free and peanut free option, thank you!
Jazz says
No problem. Thanks for reading!
Laurie says
This looks so so good. Will have to try it soon!
Jazz says
Thanks, Laurie!
toughcookiemommy says
This smoothie is perfect for quenching your thirst after a workout. I'm sure it also replenishes your energy after working out too.
asseenonjean says
This sounds so yummy and very simple to make! Like you, after the gym I don't want to spend ages in the kitchen so this is perfect!
Blythe Alpern says
I'm trying to get back into my workout routine after being sick last week. My little diva of a niece gave me her nasty cold. She was fine in a day, I was down for a week+. Once I get back into it I'm going to give this smoothie a try, I think it might help curb the appetite I usually get after a workout.
courteneynoonan says
This smoothie looks so yummy! I always forget to make a smoothie after the gym so I should really start