A Muscle-Recovery Smoothie Rich in Protein, Healthy Fats, and Natural Sweetness
This Chocolate Almond Banana Protein Shake blends indulgent flavor with clean nutrition. Designed specifically for the Ninja BL642 personal and countertop blender combo, it delivers a creamy post-workout recovery drink packed with protein, potassium, and healthy fats. Perfect for breakfast on the go or a satisfying post-gym snack.
The real power here is the blender’s ability to crush frozen banana and blend almond butter into a silky shake, no grit, no clumps. The BL642’s Auto-iQ system makes this quick and repeatable with minimal cleanup, and proper upkeep is key. If you need a guide on keeping it in peak condition, see our full Ninja BL642 maintenance guide.
Table of Contents
Ingredients (Serves 1–2)
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or preferred milk)
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional, for richness)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 2–3 ice cubes (optional)
- Drizzle of honey or 1 Medjool date (optional, for sweetness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Ingredients
Slice and freeze the banana overnight for the best thick texture. Measure out the almond butter and milk. Optional: Soften the date by soaking it in warm water for 5 minutes.
2. Load the Blender
In the Nutri Ninja® cup or pitcher, layer in the milk, protein powder, almond butter, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and sweetener first. Add frozen banana and ice last to prevent blade jams.
3. Blend
Use the “Smoothie” or “Auto-iQ Extract” function. Blend for 45–60 seconds, pausing to shake if needed. Blend again for full smoothness.
4. Serve
Pour into a chilled glass or drink straight from the personal cup. Top with shaved dark chocolate or sliced almonds for crunch if desired.
Ingredient Substitutions
| Original | Alternatives |
|---|---|
| Almond Butter | Peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter |
| Almond Milk | Oat milk, dairy milk, coconut milk |
| Banana | Frozen avocado (½), cooked oats (⅓ cup), or frozen zucchini slices |
| Chocolate Protein | Vanilla or unflavored with added cocoa powder |
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Fridge: Store in a sealed container for up to 24 hours. Stir or shake before drinking.
- Freezer: Blend as a smoothie pack by freezing all ingredients (except milk) in a zip-top bag. Add liquid and blend when ready.
- Protein Prep: Make double and refrigerate a second portion for the next day.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25–30g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 14g (from banana and optional sweetener)
- Potassium: High
- Calcium & Magnesium: Good sources
Why This Works with the Ninja BL642
The Ninja BL642 Nutri Ninja personal and countertop blender combo is built for recipes like this Chocolate Almond Banana Protein Shake. Its 1500-watt professional-grade motor and Pro Extractor Blades assembly create a vortex that pulls ingredients down for complete blending, even with dense, frozen produce and sticky nut butters.
When blending frozen bananas, the BL642’s torque ensures they break down into a creamy, ice-cream-like base without overtaxing the motor. Thick add-ins like almond butter or cocoa powder are evenly dispersed, eliminating dry clumps and grainy textures. Protein powders, especially plant-based blends, which can be gritty in weaker blenders, are fully integrated, giving the shake a smooth, drinkable finish.
This model’s Auto-iQ programs also make it ideal for consistent results. Alternating blending, pulsing, and pausing, it allows heavier ingredients time to settle toward the blades before the next power surge. This automated cycle mimics professional smoothie bar techniques without requiring you to stop and scrape down the sides.
The versatility of the BL642 also matters here. You can use the personal Nutri Ninja® cup for single servings and easy portability, or the large 72-ounce Total Crushing pitcher for batch-prepping several shakes at once. The sealed lids and dishwasher-safe parts make cleanup quick, so you’re more likely to use it daily for shakes, smoothies, dips, or even nut milks.
For anyone serious about blending, whether for high-protein shakes, meal-prep smoothies, or nut butter recipes, the Ninja BL642 offers the speed, precision, and durability to handle tough ingredients without compromise.
If you liked this shake, you might also enjoy our Fresh Basil Pesto Pasta Sauce for a savory meal-prep option, or the Whole Wheat Pizza Dough recipe for a high-fiber baking project. For more ideas, explore our blender recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add oats for extra carbs?
Yes! Add ¼ cup quick oats for a fiber and carb boost. Blend thoroughly for a smooth texture.
What’s the best chocolate protein powder to use?
Whey isolate or pea protein blends both work well. Look for one with natural sweeteners if possible.
Is this dairy-free and vegan?
If you use plant-based protein and almond milk, yes.
How can I make it even more filling?
Add flaxseed, chia seeds, or a handful of spinach for extra bulk and nutrients.
Can this be made into a smoothie bowl?
Yes. Use less milk (½ cup) and top with granola, banana slices, and almond slivers.
