Chocolate Nut Banana Protein Smoothie

Thank you to Silk for sponsoring this post!

Protein is vital.  And it’s especially important to get an adequate amount of it for breakfast.

I was reading a recent article from The Atlantic wherein they were taking a look at the latest research findings on protein consumption for breakfast.  They found that people who got adequate protein at breakfast (35 grams in this study) “were less hungry throughout the day and saw favorable changes in the hormones and brain signals that control appetite.”  These people also experienced a “reduction in their ‘cravings-related’ brain activity and increased levels of a hormone associated with satiety.”  As a result these people were less prone to snacking throughout the day and over time experienced better weight control.  I’m all for THAT!

I definitely notice a difference after eating a protein-packed breakfast versus when I eat something like oatmeal or whole wheat toast and fruit (i.e., carbs and sugar).  I feel more satisfied overall and that level of satiety lasts significantly longer.  How about you?

One of my favorite ways to ensure I’m getting enough protein in the morning is to add a smoothie to my breakfast.  I pack it full of healthy ingredients and always add a scoop protein powder to give it that extra boost.

And have I got a thoroughly deeelicious smoothie for you today that combines several favorite flavors!

I’m using Silk’s Almond Milk for this smoothie.  It has no added sugar and just 30 calories per serving with a generous amount of calcium and vitamin E.  For anyone with food sensitivities, it’s free of dairy, lactose, gluten, soy and egg, with no artificial colors or flavors.  And it’s completely non-GMO.

Silk’s Almond Milk has a pleasant, neutral flavor and silky texture which I like.  It’s perfect in smoothies and by itself.

For a great boost of protein you can also use Silk’s Protein & Nut Milk which is packed with 10 grams of plant-based pea protein per serving.

You can use either peanut, almond or cashew butter but of the three, peanut butter has the highest protein content at 8 grams for the 2 tablespoons called for in this smoothie.

Protein content will also vary depending on what kind and which brand of protein powder you’re using.  The brand I use gives me nearly 10 grams of protein in the 2 tablespoons I add to the smoothie.

In addition to getting an extra dose of protein for your breakfast, this smoothie is packed full of deliciousness and is the perfect way to start your morning!  What’s not to love about a chocolate nut banana smoothie, right??

I mean, we’ve practically got a healthy ice cream sundae going on here!!

Bottoms up!

My husband was out doing some laborious yard work this past weekend.  I told him to take a break and brought him out this smoothie as a late morning pick-me-up.  He packed that thing down in all of 20 seconds and gave it a full two thumbs up before going back to work.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy smoothie to add to your breakfast routine, need a nutritious snack for the late morning or afternoon, or need something to satisfy that sweet tooth without all the guilt, try this Chocolate Nut Banana Protein Smoothie!

Let’s get started!

Simply add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.

If you’re using a frozen banana there’s no need to add any ice unless you want to.  If the banana is not frozen, add 4 ice cubes.

Pour the smoothie into a cup and, if you like, garnish with some sliced or slivered almonds, a sprinkling of cocoa powder, and a sprig of mint.

Enjoy!

Chocolate Nut Banana Protein Smoothie

Kimberly Killebrew , www.daringgourmet.com

Start your morning right with this delicious, protein-packed smoothie!

Print Recipe

5 from 2 votes

Prep Time 5 mins

Total Time 5 mins

Servings 1 serving

Calories 386 kcal

Ingredients

 

US CustomaryMetric

 

1x2x3x

• 1 cup Silk Almond Milk (non-paleo: for a protein boost you can also use Silk's Protein & Nut Milk at 10 grams per serving)
• 1 small frozen banana (if not frozen add 4 ice cubes)
• 2 tablespoons peanut, almond or cashew butter
• 2 tablespoons vanilla, chocolate or unflavored protein powder (paleo: use a paleo-friendly protein powder)
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar (optional)

Instructions

 

• Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a large glass. If desired, garnish with some sliced or slivered almonds, a sprinkling of cocoa powder and a sprig of mint. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 386kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 25g | Saturated Fat: 1g

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This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Silk. The opinions and text are all mine.