Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Protein Smoothie (vegan)

Make this tasty protein shake recipe made with vanilla protein powder, peppermint extract, and a frozen banana. It’s healthy, filling, and easy to make. All you will need is 7 main ingredients.

What is a Holiday Protein Smoothie?

It’s simply a fun smoothie to make during the winter season because it tastes similar to the popular Chick-fil-a’s Peppermint Chip Milkshake but a healthier version. It’s made from wholesome and real ingredients and is naturally sweetened by dates. With a scoop of creamy vanilla protein powder and all-natural almond butter, you’ll feel full from all of the high-protein ingredients.

But, I would like to clear something up. While it is perfect for the holidays, I am certain you will enjoy this smoothie year-round, that is how good it is. (Think poolside, St. Patrick’s Day, or after a hard workout). Really, anytime is a good time for this Holiday White Peppermint Protein Smoothie.

Is a Peppermint Vegan Protein Smoothie Actually Healthy?

Yes! This smoothie can be a complete protein snack or meal. It’s no secret that the combination of carbohydrates and protein work together to keep your body functioning well. Both help stabilize blood sugar, build muscles, and work best when eaten together. That’s where almond butter and bananas come in. Two wholesome ingredients with maximum benefits.

Not to mention, this smoothie is made from only real ingredients. You won’t find any unnatural, processed junk in this recipe. Dairy-free, naturally sweetened, and high in protein, this smoothie will be your favorite go-to breakfast or protein snack this winter season.

Ingredients You Will Need

Banana-You can use a frozen banana or a ripe, fresh banana. In my opinion, a frozen banana thickens the texture and is my preference.

Vanilla protein powder-Only use this flavor as I have not tested out any additional ones. Make sure to use a high-quality brand that has clean ingredients. I enjoy Aloha or Truvani brands.

Almond butter-This nut butter adds a great amount of healthy fat and protein to this smoothie. It makes it a heartier meal replacement.

Dates-Make sure to pit them and only use ripe dates. It may be difficult for the blender to finely chop them up without leaving chunks in your smoothie.

Spinach-This makes the smoothie naturally green for starts. Most importantly, it brings a cup of greens to your diet which has so many positive health benefits.

Peppermint extract or oil-Try to find a high-quality brand that does not include processed fillers in the extract. Remember that a little goes a long way with this strong extract.

Plant-based milk-The creamier the better for this smoothie. I recommend cashew, oat, or coconut milk.

Ice-This helps thicken the smoothie and gives it the perfect texture. If you like it even thicker, add a few more.

Dairy-free chocolate chips-I like to use Lily’s brand. This ingredient can be optional if you aren’t a chocolate fan, however, I absolutely love the little crunch that the chocolate chips give to this delicious smoothie.

How to Make a Vegan Protein Smoothie

This smoothie is so simple to make. You will need a high-speed blender for this recipe. Add all of the ingredients, except the chocolate chips, to the base and blend them up until everything is nice and creamy and no chunks are present.

Place the chocolate chips into the smoothie, add the lid, and blend for about 5-6 seconds. The goal is not to completely blend the chocolate chips to allow for the chocolate to provide a crunch to this smoothie.

Serve this smoothie immediately and feel free to add the additional optional toppings below. Cheers to a healthy and delicious drink!

How to Serve This Peppermint Smoothie

I recommend topping it with any or all of the following.

-Mini chocolate chips

-Crushed peppermint candy pieces

-Coconut whipped cream (dairy-free)

-Chocolate sauce

-Chocolate sprinkles

-Hemp seeds

Can You Save it For Later?

I am not a fan of saving leftover smoothies. However, feel free to place leftovers in the fridge for up to an hour. In my opinion, a melted smoothie just doesn’t taste good. I’ll leave this decision up to you. LOL.

Tips + Modifications

Dates-I recommend removing 3 dates from the fridge a few hours before you make the smoothie to allow the dates to soften. If they are still too hard, place them in hot water for about 20 minutes. They blend up much nicer if they are soft and ripe.

How Did You Like This Vegan Protein Smoothie?

Please share your comments and rating below. I learn so much from your opinion and it helps me build the recipes on my blog. Thank you so much!

More Delicious Vegan Smoothies to Try

​If you are a coffee lover and looking for a refreshing, high-protein, and healthy smoothie, I have got you covered. This ice-blended coffee protein smoothie has 17 grams of protein and is the ideal wholesome breakfast or snack.

Looking for a refreshing and nutritious drink that’s packed with vitamins and bursting with tropical flavor? Look no further than this Vitamin C-Loaded Tropical Orange Smoothie! This dairy-free and vegan beverage is the perfect way to start your day or refuel after a workout.

Enjoy!

XOXO

Michelle