Name: Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Shake
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 large shake
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder; 1 cup milk or almond milk; 1 frozen banana; 1/8 teaspoon pure peppermint extract; 4 to 5 fresh mint leaves; 1 tablespoon raw cacao nibs; 1/2 cup ice; 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder

Question 1

Do I need fresh mint or is extract enough?

Accepted Answer

Extract alone works fine if pure peppermint oil is the only ingredient on the bottle. Fresh mint adds an aromatic top-note that elevates the shake, but it is optional.

Question 2

Can I use mint-flavored protein powder?

Accepted Answer

Some brands make a Mint Cookies and Cream flavor that fits perfectly. Skip the extract entirely if you do.

Question 3

Why is the color brown instead of green?

Accepted Answer

The cocoa pulls the color brown. For green, skip the cocoa, use vanilla whey only, and blend in a handful of spinach. Or use 1 to 2 drops of natural green food coloring.

Question 4

Are cacao nibs safe to eat raw?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they are minimally processed cocoa beans. Slightly bitter, with a satisfying crunch and almost zero sugar. A good alternative to mini chocolate chips.

Question 5

Can I make it a smoothie bowl?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Halve the milk, double the frozen banana, and add ¼ cup Greek yogurt. Top with cacao nibs and fresh mint.

Question 6

How much sugar is in this?

Accepted Answer

Around 15g, almost entirely from the banana. A scoop of mint chip ice cream has 14g of added sugar plus 10g of fat.

Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Shake (38g Protein)