The Best Chocolate Matcha Smoothie (Protein-Packed & Energizing!)

This creamy chocolate matcha smoothie is the ultimate post-workout recovery drink, packed with antioxidants, plant-based protein, and a boost of matcha green tea for a sustained energy boost. Whether you’re refueling after exercise or want a nutrient-dense breakfast on busy mornings, this smoothie is a great way to energize your body with simple ingredients and delicious flavor.

One of my favorite gym smoothies inspired this matcha green tea smoothie recipe. The first time I tried matcha blended with cacao, I was hooked. The chocolatey richness combined with the smooth, earthy matcha made for the ultimate energy boost (and it felt like such a treat).

Now, this is one of my go-to smoothie recipes for a healthy breakfast, after strength workouts, long runs, and honestly just because — it’s that good.

It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber — everything you need to support muscle recovery and provide a steady energy boost — all while satisfying chocolate cravings in a healthy and delicious way. It’s the little pick-me-up you’ll wonder how you ever lived without!

Why this recipe works

• Nutrient-dense whole foods: This smoothie is made with whole, minimally processed ingredients like matcha, cacao, oats, and banana, providing natural energy and essential nutrients.

• Energizing & protein-packed: With up to 40 grams of protein, this matcha protein shake is the ultimate green tea smoothie made from plant-based sources (depending on your milk & protein powder). This smoothie supports muscle recovery and satiety.

• Rich chocolate flavor:  Cacao powder adds deep chocolate notes while keeping it refined sugar-free.

• Health benefits of matcha: Matcha is rich in antioxidants, especially EGCG, which has been studied for its potential to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote overall wellness. According to Dr. Weil, matcha also provides fiber, vitamins (A, C, E, and K), and minerals, which may help with blood sugar balance and sustained energy.

• Customizable & naturally sweet: Sweetened with banana and maple syrup or Medjool dates, with the option to adjust sweetness to taste.

• Balanced & creamy: Oats, banana, and plant-based milk create a thick, creamy texture without added thickeners.

If you like this chocolate matcha smoothie recipe, you’ll love our matcha latte and our vegan matcha cookies!

How to make this Chocolate Matcha Smoothie

Gather your ingredients.

Place all ingredients into your blender: Start with milk, then add matcha, cacao, vegan protein powder, frozen banana, oats, seeds, and sweetener.

Blend on high for 45–60 seconds or until creamy. Add more milk if it’s too thick or ice cubes if it’s too thin.

Substitutions & additions

• Want it creamier? Use oat milk or a spoonful of nut butter.

• For a fruity variation? Use frozen fruit like acai or blueberries.

• Extra protein? Increase protein powder, hemp seeds, or chia seeds.

• Prefer it sweeter? Try more banana, Medjool dates, or maple syrup.

• For a Superfood Boost? Blend in spirulina, acai, or flaxseeds.

• For a mocha twist: Add 1/4 teaspoon instant coffee or espresso powder.

• For a green boost: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach.

Storage & meal prep

• Meal prep tip: Freeze individual smoothie packs with all ingredients except liquid for a quick blend-and-go option.

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

• On-the-go: Store in an insulated tumbler to keep it cool longer.

FAQ

• Why add matcha to a smoothie?
  Matcha provides a slow-release energy boost without the jitters of coffee. It also has antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support post-workout recovery.

• How is matcha different from traditional green tea?
  Matcha is a finely ground powder of whole green tea leaves, making it more concentrated in antioxidants, amino acids, and caffeine than regular green tea, which is steeped and discarded. Matcha provides a slower, more sustained energy release due to L-theanine.

• Can I use fresh banana instead of frozen?
  You can, but frozen banana gives a thicker, creamier texture. If using fresh, add ice cubes to maintain consistency.

• Can I turn this into a smoothie bowl?
  Yes! To make this a smoothie bowl, reduce the liquid to ½–¾ cup, blend until thick, and serve in a bowl. Top with fresh fruit, cacao nibs, hemp seeds, granola, or a drizzle of nut butter for added texture and nutrients.

• What type of matcha is best for a matcha smoothie?
  For smoothies, culinary-grade matcha is the best choice as it blends well and has a stronger flavor. If you prefer a milder, smoother taste with a higher antioxidant content, ceremonial grade matcha works too, though it’s traditionally reserved for drinking.

• Can I use regular green tea instead?
  For a milder taste, you can steep green tea bags in a small amount of hot water, let it cool, and add to the smoothie — but matcha is the best option for maximum benefits.

• How does cacao help with recovery?
  Cacao is packed with magnesium, which supports muscle function and relaxation, helping reduce post-workout soreness.

AUTHOR: Julie Gaeta

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Chocolate Matcha Smoothie

PREP TIME: 5 MinTOTAL TIME: 5 Min

This creamy chocolate matcha smoothie is the ultimate post-workout recovery drink, packed with antioxidants, plant-based protein, and a boost of matcha green tea for a sustained energy boost. Whether you’re refueling after exercise or want a nutrient-dense breakfast on busy mornings, this smoothie is a great way to energize your body with simple ingredients and delicious flavor.

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Ingredients

• 3/4 cup oat milk OR coconut milk for a creamier option
• 1 large frozen ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons cacao powder
• 1 scoop vegan chocolate protein powder, I like to use Sunwarrior
• 1 tablespoon matcha tea powder
• 1/4 cup rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon flax, chia, or hemp seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup ice cubes
• Optional add-ins/toppings: 1 tablespoon maple syrup OR 1/2 medjool date, cacao nibs for topping, fresh baby kale, fresh baby spinach, mixed leafy greens, 1/2 ripe avocado, and/or 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.

Instructions

1. Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender: Start with milk, then add matcha, cacao, vegan protein powder, frozen banana, oats, seeds, and sweetener.
2. Blend on high for 45–60 seconds until creamy. Add more milk if too thick or ice cubes if too thin.
3. Taste & adjust: Add extra sweetener if needed.
4. Serve & top: Pour into a glass and sprinkle with cacao nibs for crunch.

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