CHOCOLATE ALMOND RECOVERY SHAKE
This chocolate almond recovery shake is the perfect post-workout drink to refuel and support muscle recovery. Made with rich cocoa powder, plant-based almond milk and protein powder, it provides a well-balanced blend of protein, healthy fats and antioxidants. The natural nuttiness of crushed almonds adds texture and flavour while contributing essential minerals like magnesium and vitamin E, which are beneficial for muscle function. This shake is naturally dairy-free, making it an excellent option for those with lactose intolerance or anyone looking for a lighter recovery drink. With its deep chocolate flavour and smooth consistency, this high-protein shake feels like an indulgence while keeping your nutrition on track. Whether enjoyed after a workout or as a nutritious snack, it’s a quick and easy way to boost your protein intake and energy levels.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Snack, Drinks
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
No-Cook, 5 Ingredients or Less, Prepared in Advance
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Post-Workout, Healthy Eating, Summer Refreshment, Quick Breakfast
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Healthy, High Protein, Low Fat, Low Sodium, Quick & Easy, Vegan, Wheat / Gluten-Free
DISH TYPE
Smoothie
INGREDIENTS
The following are the ingredients we need to prepare the chocolate almond recovery shake.
- 200ml almond milk
- 10g cocoa powder
- 10g protein powder
- 5g almonds, crushed
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fibre: 3g
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Sugar: 1g
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Almonds: Place the almonds on a cutting board and crush them using a mortar and pestle or the flat side of a knife. If using a food processor, pulse them a few times until coarsely ground. Avoid over-processing, as this can turn them into almond butter.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour the almond milk into a high-speed blender. Add the cocoa powder, protein powder and crushed almonds to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high for 30-45 seconds, ensuring all ingredients are fully mixed. If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend for an additional 10-15 seconds.
- Check Consistency: If the shake is too thick, add an extra splash of almond milk and blend again. If too thin, add a couple of ice cubes or a teaspoon of ground almonds for a thicker texture.
- Serve Immediately: Pour into a glass and drink fresh for the best texture and flavour. Stir before drinking if the shake starts to settle.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
None
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for you when making this chocolate almond recovery shake.
- Use Cold Almond Milk: Chilling the almond milk beforehand makes the shake more refreshing and enhances its creamy texture. If you prefer a colder shake, add ice cubes before blending.
- Enhance Sweetness Naturally: If you like a sweeter shake without added sugar, blend in half a banana, a pitted date, or a teaspoon of honey for natural sweetness.
- Blend For Longer For A Smoother Texture: To avoid any graininess from the cocoa powder or almonds, blend for an additional 15 seconds and let the mixture sit for a few seconds before drinking.
- Boost Nutrition: Add a teaspoon of flaxseeds or chia seeds for additional omega-3s and fibre. These ingredients also help to thicken the shake naturally.
- Chocolate Intensity: Adjust the cocoa powder to suit your taste. More cocoa will create a richer, slightly bitter flavour, while less will keep the shake milder and creamier.
- Choose The Right Protein Powder: Use a high-quality protein powder without artificial sweeteners or fillers for better taste and nutritional value. Chocolate protein powder can enhance the flavour, while vanilla can balance the cocoa’s richness.
- Toast The Almonds: Lightly toasting the almonds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before crushing can enhance their nutty flavour and give the shake a deeper taste.
- Avoid Clumping: To prevent protein powder from clumping, add it gradually while blending or mix it with a small amount of almond milk before adding the other ingredients.
VARIATIONS
- Nut-Free Alternative: Replace almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them for an allergy-friendly option while maintaining texture.
- Creamier Texture: Blend in half a frozen banana or a tablespoon of Greek yoghurt for a thicker, creamier consistency.
- Caffeine Boost: Add a shot of espresso or a teaspoon of instant coffee for a mocha-flavoured energy boost.
- Extra Protein: Increase the protein powder amount to 15g for a higher protein intake, ideal for post-workout recovery.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to enhance the flavour and create a warm, spiced chocolate taste.
- Nut Butter Alternative: Replace crushed almonds with a teaspoon of almond butter for a smoother texture and richer nutty flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Best consumed immediately for optimal texture, but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 12 hours. Shake well or re-blend before drinking, as the ingredients may settle.
- Freezing: Pour the shake into ice cube trays and freeze. When ready to drink, blend the frozen cubes with additional almond milk to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Meal Prep Tip: Pre-measure the cocoa powder, protein powder and crushed almonds into small containers or resealable bags for a quick, grab-and-blend option during busy mornings or post-workout recovery.