Raspberry Cocoa Almond

The Raspberry Cocoa Almond Smoothie is a decadent yet nutritious blend that perfectly balances the tartness of raspberries with rich chocolate and nutty almond flavors.
This indulgent smoothie delivers the taste of a dessert while providing powerful antioxidants, healthy fats, and plant-based protein for sustained energy and satisfaction.
Designed to satisfy chocolate cravings in a healthful way, this smoothie creates a guilt-free treat that nourishes the body while delighting the taste buds.
Whether you're looking for a post-workout recovery drink, a nutritious breakfast option, or a healthy alternative to dessert, the Raspberry Cocoa Almond Smoothie offers both pleasure and nourishment in every sip.


- Rich in antioxidants from raspberries and raw cacao for cellular protection
- Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from almond butter
- Contains plant-based protein for muscle recovery and satiety
- Provides fiber for digestive health and steady energy release
- Delivers magnesium and iron from cacao for energy production and oxygen transport


1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
1 frozen banana
2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
2 tablespoons almond butter
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cacao nibs (optional, for topping)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of sea salt
Ice cubes (if using fresh raspberries)


Raspberries: High in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. Contains ellagic acid which may have cancer-fighting properties and supports skin health.
Banana: Provides potassium for heart health and muscle function. Adds natural sweetness and creates a creamy texture.
Raw Cacao Powder: Contains flavanols that support heart health and improve blood flow. Rich in magnesium, iron, and mood-enhancing compounds.
Almond Butter: Delivers healthy monounsaturated fats and vitamin E for heart and skin health. Provides plant protein and creates a satisfying, smooth texture.
Almond Milk: Low in calories while providing vitamin E and a creamy base. Lactose-free alternative to dairy milk.
Maple Syrup/Honey: Natural sweeteners with trace minerals and antioxidants. Adds depth of flavor while balancing the tartness of raspberries.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor profile and contains small amounts of antioxidants. May help reduce the amount of sweetener needed.
Cacao Nibs: Unprocessed chocolate pieces that provide crunch and additional antioxidants. Contains theobromine for natural energy.
Cinnamon: Helps stabilize blood sugar and adds warmth to the flavor profile. Contains anti-inflammatory compounds.
Sea Salt: Enhances all flavors and provides trace minerals. Helps balance sweetness and supports electrolyte balance.


Calories: Approximately 380
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 43g
Fiber: 14g
Fat: 20g (primarily healthy monounsaturated fats)
Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, iron, vitamin E
Antioxidants: Anthocyanins, flavanols, ellagic acid, catechins


- High-powered blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife for banana (if not pre-sliced before freezing)
- Spatula for scraping down sides of blender
- Serving glass


1. If using a frozen banana, make sure it's peeled and sliced before freezing for easier blending.
2. Add almond milk to the blender first to help the blending process.
3. Add raspberries, banana, almond butter, cacao powder, vanilla, cinnamon (if using), and sea salt.
4. Add sweetener if desired (adjust to taste).
5. If using fresh raspberries, add a handful of ice cubes for a colder, thicker texture.
6. Blend on low speed first to break down ingredients.
7. Increase to high speed and blend until smooth and creamy (about 45-60 seconds).
8. Pause to scrape down the sides of the blender if necessary.
9. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
10. Pour into a glass and sprinkle with cacao nibs if desired.

Total preparation time: 5-7 minutes


- Serve in a glass mason jar with a metal straw for an Instagram-worthy presentation
- Top with a few fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of cacao nibs for texture contrast
- Garnish with a small sprig of mint for a pop of color and fresh aroma
- For a more substantial breakfast, pair with a slice of whole-grain toast with additional almond butter


- Best consumed immediately after preparation for optimal texture and flavor
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours
- If storing, the smoothie will thicken; thin with a splash of almond milk before consuming
- Not recommended for freezing as the texture will change significantly upon thawing


Protein boost: Add 1 scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder or 2 tablespoons of hemp seeds
Vegan option: Use maple syrup instead of honey
Lower sugar version: Omit the sweetener and use a less ripe banana
Thicker texture: Add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds or 1/4 avocado
Greens addition: Add a handful of spinach (the dark color of cacao will mask the green)
Spicy variation: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a Mexican-chocolate inspired flavor


- Perfect as a satisfying breakfast that will keep you full through the morning
- Excellent post-workout recovery drink with its blend of carbs and protein
- Great afternoon pick-me-up when energy levels dip and chocolate cravings hit
- Can serve as a healthier dessert alternative in the evening


Antioxidant protection: The combination of raspberries and cacao provides a powerful dose of antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and may reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Sustained energy: The balance of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and healthy fats provides steady energy release without blood sugar spikes and crashes.
Mood enhancement: Cacao contains compounds like theobromine, phenylethylamine, and anandamide that may support positive mood and reduce stress.
Heart health: The flavanols in cacao and monounsaturated fats in almond butter support cardiovascular health by improving blood flow and helping maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
Muscle recovery: The protein from almond butter combined with potassium from banana supports muscle recovery and reduces post-exercise soreness.
Digestive health: With approximately 14g of fiber, this smoothie supports healthy digestion and promotes beneficial gut bacteria.


- Those with nut allergies should substitute almond butter and almond milk with seed butter (such as sunflower seed butter) and an alternative plant milk
- Individuals sensitive to caffeine should be aware that cacao contains small amounts of naturally occurring stimulants
- Those monitoring calories or fat intake may want to reduce the amount of almond butter
- Diabetics should consider using less banana and no added sweetener to manage carbohydrate content


- For the smoothest texture, use a high-powered blender like Vitamix or Blendtec
- Freeze ripe bananas when they're spotty for the sweetest flavor and creamiest texture
- Raw cacao powder produces a more intense chocolate flavor than cocoa powder, but either will work
- Adding a pinch of salt enhances the chocolate flavor and balances the sweetness
- For meal prep, portion the non-liquid ingredients in freezer bags for quick morning assembly


Spring Version: Add 1/4 cup fresh strawberries alongside the raspberries for a berry-forward flavor that celebrates spring fruits. Include a few fresh mint leaves for brightness.

Summer Version: Use all frozen fruit and reduce almond milk slightly for a thicker, more refreshing ice-cream like consistency. Add 1/4 cup frozen cherries for additional summer fruit flavor.

Fall Version: Add 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice and 1 tablespoon of pumpkin puree for autumn warmth. A splash of cold brew coffee can add depth to the chocolate flavor.

Winter Version: Warm the almond milk slightly before blending for a less chilling effect. Add 1 tablespoon of almond or coconut butter for extra richness and warmth. Include a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg for holiday-inspired flavor.


Brain Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of MCT oil, 1 teaspoon of maca powder, and 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed for omega-3 fatty acids and increased mental clarity.

Workout Recovery: Add 1 scoop of protein powder, 1/2 cup tart cherry juice (replacing some of the almond milk), and a pinch of pink Himalayan salt for electrolytes.

Inflammation Fighter: Increase cacao to 3 tablespoons, add 1/4 teaspoon turmeric with a pinch of black pepper, and include 1/2 teaspoon of ginger for anti-inflammatory compounds.

Digestive Support: Add 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed, 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, and substitute 1/4 cup of almond milk with kefir or yogurt for probiotic benefits.

Stress Reducer: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ashwagandha powder, 1 teaspoon of maca, and substitute half the raspberries with cherries, which contain natural melatonin.


Q: Can I use cocoa powder instead of raw cacao powder?
A: Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder for raw cacao powder. Cocoa powder is more processed and typically less bitter, so you might need slightly less sweetener. Use the same amount (2 tablespoons) and adjust the sweetness to taste.

Q: How can I make this smoothie without banana?
A: To make this smoothie without banana, you can substitute with 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower (which adds creaminess without much flavor) plus 1/4 avocado for creaminess and 1 tablespoon additional sweetener to compensate for the lost sweetness from the banana.

Q: Is this smoothie keto-friendly?
A: As written, this smoothie is not keto-friendly due to the banana and raspberries. For a keto version, omit the banana, reduce raspberries to 1/4 cup, increase almond butter to 3 tablespoons, add 1/4 avocado and 1 tablespoon of MCT oil, and use a keto-approved sweetener like stevia or monk fruit instead of maple syrup/honey.

Q: Can children drink this smoothie?
A: Yes, this smoothie is suitable for children and is a great way to incorporate nutrition-dense foods into their diet. The chocolate flavor makes it appealing to kids while the nutrient content makes it parent-approved. For younger children who may be sensitive to the mild caffeine in cacao, you can reduce the amount used.

Q: Why is my smoothie not very sweet?
A: The sweetness level can vary based on the ripeness of your banana and the natural tartness of your raspberries. To increase sweetness: use a very ripe banana with brown spots, add additional sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or dates), include a few drops of liquid stevia, or add 1/4 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, which can enhance perceived sweetness without adding sugar.