Raw Chocolate Banana Shake (Printable)
A luscious blend of ripe bananas and raw cacao creates this naturally sweet, creamy shake perfect for quick energizing.
# What you need:
→ Base
01 - 2 large ripe bananas, preferably frozen, peeled and sliced
02 - 1½ cups plant-based milk (almond, oat, or coconut)
→ Chocolate Flavor
03 - 2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
04 - 1–2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or agave nectar, adjusted to taste
05 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
→ Texture & Extras
06 - 4–6 ice cubes, optional for added thickness
07 - Pinch of sea salt
08 - 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds, optional for added nutrition
# Directions:
01 - Add the banana slices, plant-based milk, raw cacao powder, maple syrup (starting with the lesser amount), vanilla extract, and sea salt to the blender.
02 - Toss in the ice cubes and chia or flaxseeds if using, to boost creaminess and nutritional value.
03 - Blend on high speed for 30 to 60 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth and frothy.
04 - Taste the shake and add more maple syrup or agave if a sweeter flavor is desired, then blend briefly to incorporate.
05 - Divide the shake evenly between two glasses and serve right away while cold and frothy.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Frozen bananas do all the heavy lifting for creaminess without a drop of dairy.
- Raw cacao gives you that deep chocolate flavor plus a natural energy boost from theobromine.
- It comes together in under five minutes with zero cooking involved.
02 -
- Using unfrozen bananas will give you a thinner drink more like chocolate milk than a shake, so freeze ahead if thickness matters to you.
- Raw cacao can taste bitter if you skimp on the sweetener, so always taste before serving.
- Store-bought plant milks sometimes contain hidden allergens like soy or nuts so always read the label if cooking for someone else.
03 -
- Peel and slice your bananas before freezing because trying to peel a frozen banana is a frustrating experience you only have once.
- Keep a bag of pre-sliced frozen bananas in your freezer at all times and this recipe becomes something you can make on autopilot.