This keto chocolate almond protein shake makes a refreshing breakfast or dessert that is nutritious and filling, and keeps hunger at bay!
This keto protein shake hits all the right spots. You can start your day with this delightful shake or have it as a dessert any time you like.
It's been said that starting your day with a healthy dose of protein keeps you full longer. This keto chocolate protein shake contains 31g of protein per serving, so it checks all the right boxes.
It also makes a perfect meal replacement especially when you're on the go!Ingredients used in making keto chocolate almond protein shake
Protein powder: I use Isopure Zero Carb protein powder for this recipe. I like that it has zero carbs and is flavorless. You can, of course, use your favorite keto protein powder.
Cacao powder: Viva Naturals Certified Organic Cacao Powder is one of the best cacao powders I've ever tried. It is not as bitter as some others and always has a pleasant, fresh taste. It is also vegan and gluten-free. If you have a favorite brand, you can use that as well.
Monk fruit sweetener: My favorite sweetener is Monkfruit sweetener with erythritol. I love that it does not have any cooling effect or weird aftertaste.
Unsweetened almond milk and heavy whipping cream: Unsweetened almond milk provides a liquid base while the heavy whipping cream provides bulk and more fat. Make sure they are both low carb and don't contain hidden sugars.
Almond butter: You can use almond butter or substitute with any nut butter you like.
Salt: I like to add a pinch of salt to neutralize the cacao powder's bitter taste. You can also add more sweetener and omit the salt but I don't like mine overly sweet.
Vanilla extract: for an extra dose of flavor!
How to make this keto protein shake
This recipe comes together really quickly. Add the almond milk first, then add all the other ingredients in a personal blender or nutribullet. Add some ice, if you want, and blend. That's it!
This recipe serves 1 and contains 4 net carbs per serving.
Extra toppings for this keto chocolate protein shake
When I drink my keto chocolate protein shake as breakfast, I usually don't add any toppings. But I go crazy with toppings when I'm drinking it as a dessert!
Some of my favorite toppings are:
Sugar-free whipped cream: Land O'Lakes has an awesome sugar-free whipped cream that you can get from your local Walmart or grocery store.
Cinnamon powder: You only need just a dash of cinnamon.
Shaved chocolate: To shave chocolate, you can use a potato peeler to cut a chocolate block like this unsweetened baker's chocolate. Another way is by laying the chocolate block flat and using a knife to scrape the top.
Why is my keto chocolate protein shake bitter?
Unsweetened cacao powder is a bit bitter by default because it contains no added sugars. Adding just a pinch of salt helps to neutralize this.
If it still tastes bitter, check the expiration date. I have noticed that the older it is, the stronger the bitter taste.
Also, keep the container or bag sealed properly to maintain its freshness. 
Tips and substitutions
To make this keto chocolate protein shake dairy-free or vegan, omit the heavy whipping cream, and add an additional tablespoon of almond butter. The additional almond butter will add bulk and more healthy fats.
Enjoy these other keto desserts and breakfast recipes!
Keto Peanut Butter Chia Pudding
Keto Peanut Butter Chocolate PuddingStrawberry Spinach Smoothie
Keto Chocolate Almond Protein Shake
Ingredients
- 1 scoop protein powder approx 2 tbsp
- 1 tbsp cacao powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp monk fruit sweetener
- 1 cup almond milk unsweetened
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- pinch of salt
Instructions
- Add the almond milk first, then add the other ingredients.
- Add some ice, then blend on high in a blender or nutribullet.
- Top up with zero-carb whipped cream, cinnamon, or shaved chocolate.
Notes
- To make this dairy-free or vegan, omit the heavy whipping cream, and increase the almond butter.
- If your protein shake is bitter, make sure it is still fresh and not expired.
- Also, a pinch of salt helps to neutralize the bitter taste.
This was AMAZING! I used unsweetened vanilla almond milk, and replaced almond butter with natural peanut butter and I may have this every morning now. Thank you!
I'm so glad you enjoyed this, Michelle. It's one of my favorite breakfast shakes too!
The recipe was easy to follow and the ingredients were easy to get. The drink however was way too bitter. I’m guessing it is the sweetener. If I make it again I’ll omit the sweetener and use bananas or something instead (I’m not doing keto, just healthier eating).
Keto chocolate drinks taste slightly bitter and sometimes this depends on the brand and freshness of the cacao powder you used. Also, did you add a little salt? It helps balance out the bitterness. And if you're not on the keto diet, banana and honey will work well.
Hi, I will totally try this recipe, but I want to as what I can use as a substitute instead of protein powder. Thanks
You can omit the protein powder but it might be less filling. If you try it, let me know!