A protein packed smoothie that tastes like a milkshake. OK! This protein packed mint chocolate smoothie is easily made into a make ahead freezer pack too!
If you would have told me 6 months ago that I would be drinking protein smoothies, and that my yoga pants actually go to yoga, I would be shocked. I have never been into protein based smoothies, and yoga “wasn’t my thing”.
Both of these things changed when an Oranj Fitness opened in my local city (Airdrie, Alberta). With over 85 classes offered each week including a variety of fitness, barre, HOT and non-heated yoga, I have quickly become addicted to them all. I honestly couldn't pick a favourite. I love them all for different reasons!
One of the many perks of the studio is that you can order your smoothie as you go to class and it is waiting for you when you are done!!!
In December, the feature smoothie was THIS mint chocolate smoothie and I became hooked. Of course I have spent a ridiculous amount of time tying to create protein smoothies that taste good as the ones at Oranj… and well… I fail EVERY TIME.
This smoothie is from the personal recipe vault of the studio’s owner, Naomi, and not a regular option on the Oranj smoothie menu. So instead of attempting (aka failing) at making a smoothie that tastes as good, Naomi has shared her recipe with me….and now you too!
In line with most of the cooking I do, this recipe is make ahead and freezer friendly. I love smoothie packs because they are pretty quick to put together a bunch of them, and then they are good in the freezer for months – although mine never last more than the month.
To prep my packs, I haul all the ingredients out, chop and dump all of the non liquid ingredients into ziplock freezer bags.
I make sure they are labelled with the smoothie and how much liquid is to be added when it is go time.
Naomi’s recipe didn’t call for ice cubes, but since I like a thicker smoothie, I add 5-6 cubes when I blend mine up.
The coconut milk (which comes in cartons – who knew?!?) is where I had been failing in making these on my own. It adds an amazing texture and the fresh mint. OMG the fresh mint. I was shocked at how simple the ingredient list is and you still end up with such a great nutrient dense smoothie.
Mint Chocolate Protein Smoothie Freezer Packs
Ingredients
- 1 whole banana cut into 7 pieces
- ¾ scoop chocolate protein powder I use Vega One
- 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
- 8 mint leaves
- 2 drops peppermint extract
- 375 mL coconut milk
- 4-6 ice cubes optional
Instructions
- Add all ingredients EXCEPT the coconut milk into a freezer baggie.
- Label bag with recipe name and noting to add 375mL of coconut milk
- When ready to blend, dump baggie contents, and coconut milk into a high speed blender until desired consistency.
Notes
Nutrition
So now that I am not wasting time trying to create this on my own (thank you Naomi), I can get back to more important things in life… like trying to get myself into a king pigeon pose in a hot yoga class at Oranj Airdrie!
There you have it, a prep ahead, freezer friendly, protein smoothie that ACTUALLY TASTES GOOD!
Diane Andrews says
This sound super yummy! I was wondering how much is 375mL? (in cups) Also, could you break this down as to calories, sugar etc. Thank you!
Steph says
Hi Diane, 355mL is about 1.5 cups. For the calories and macronutrients, I suggest entering the info into My Fitness Pal - the calories and nutrient composition could differ depending on the brand you use.
Debi says
I'm totally going to try this! One quick question, is this canned coconut milk (thicker) or boxed coconut milk (thinner)?
Thanks!
So glad I found you!
Steph says
Boxed is thinner and it is what I use.
Debi says
Is this the full fat coconut milk in a jar or the milk in a carton?
Melinda says
I'm allergic to coconut what do you think would be a good substitution for the coconut milk in this recipe
Steph says
You could use almond milk!
Britt says
WOW! Was blown away by this recipe. I took what I had on hand so I imagine your recipe would be even more delish! I added 3/4 cup almond cashew protein milk, half a scoop of vanilla protein powder, 1 tbsp cocoa powder, 3 drops of peppermint extract, a banana, and 2 tsp of maple syrup! Yummmmm will make this again and will definitely freeze a couple for future smoothies! Thanks!