Chocolate Hazelnut Protein Holiday Shake – Cozy, Creamy, and Satisfying

This shake tastes like a festive dessert but packs the kind of nutrition that keeps you going through busy holiday days. It’s rich, chocolatey, lightly nutty, and naturally sweet—no weird aftertaste or overly complicated steps. Whether you’re craving an afternoon treat or need a quick breakfast, this blend hits the spot.

Think of it as a seasonal upgrade to your usual protein shake, with a little cozy magic in every sip.

What Makes This Recipe So Good

• Dessert vibes, balanced macros: You get a chocolate hazelnut flavor that feels indulgent, with solid protein to keep you full.
• Holiday-friendly flavors: A hint of cinnamon and vanilla brings that warm, seasonal feel without being overpowering.
• Quick and customizable: Toss everything in a blender and you’re done in minutes. Easy to tweak for dairy-free, low-carb, or higher-calorie needs.
• Great texture: Frozen banana (or ice) creates a thick, milkshake-like feel—no chalkiness.
• Better-for-you chocolate taste: Cocoa powder and a little hazelnut butter deliver that “nutty chocolate” experience without loads of sugar.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 frozen banana (or 1/2 banana + 1 cup ice for a less sweet version)
• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder (whey or plant-based)
• 1 tablespoon hazelnut butter (or 1 tablespoon almond butter + 1/4 teaspoon hazelnut extract)
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of sea salt
• 2–3 ice cubes (optional, for extra thickness)
• Optional garnish: shaved dark chocolate, crushed toasted hazelnuts, or a pinch of cocoa

Instructions

1. Add the milk, banana, protein powder, hazelnut butter, cocoa powder, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt to a blender.
2. Blend on high until smooth, 30–45 seconds. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk.

   If it’s too thin, add a couple of ice cubes and blend again.

3. Taste and adjust sweetness with maple syrup or honey if needed.
4. Pour into a chilled glass. Top with shaved dark chocolate or crushed hazelnuts if you want a little holiday flair.

Storage Instructions

• Short-term: Keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours in a sealed jar. Shake well before drinking.
• Make-ahead tip: Portion the dry ingredients (protein powder, cocoa, cinnamon, salt) in a small jar and keep the wet ingredients ready.

  Blend when needed.

• Freezer packs: Pre-freeze banana pieces and measured hazelnut butter in small bags. Add to the blender with milk and powders straight from the freezer.

Why This is Good for You

• Protein for satiety: Helps keep you full and supports muscle repair, especially useful during busy, snack-heavy holidays.
• Healthy fats: Hazelnut butter adds monounsaturated fats that support heart health and a steady energy curve.
• Antioxidants: Cocoa is rich in flavanols that can support circulation and mood.
• Balanced sweetness: Banana and optional maple syrup offer natural sweetness without relying on heavy sugars.

Pitfalls to Watch Out For

• Over-sweetening: Start with no added sweetener and taste. Protein powders vary in sweetness.
• Wrong texture: If it’s icy or watery, add more banana or a few nuts to boost creaminess.

  If it’s too thick, add milk a little at a time.

• Strong hazelnut extract: If using extract, go light—1/4 teaspoon is plenty. Too much can taste artificial.
• Chalky protein: If your shake tastes chalky, try a different brand or add a few ice cubes to smooth it out.

Alternatives

• Dairy-free: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk and a plant-based protein powder.
• Low-sugar: Skip the banana and use 1–1.5 cups ice. Add 1–2 dates or a zero-calorie sweetener if needed.
• Extra protein: Add 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or a splash of pasteurized egg whites (if you’re comfortable and they’re safe to consume).
• No hazelnuts: Use almond butter plus a tiny bit of hazelnut extract, or go full almond-chocolate for a “ferrero-adjacent” flavor.
• Festive boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg, a splash of peppermint extract, or a shot of espresso for a holiday mocha vibe.

FAQ

Can I make this without a banana?

Yes.

Replace the banana with 1–1.5 cups ice and add 1–2 pitted dates or a touch of sweetener to balance the cocoa. You’ll get a colder, slightly lighter texture.

What protein powder works best?

Whey blends usually create the smoothest texture. For dairy-free, choose a plant blend with pea protein and rice or hemp for better mouthfeel.

Chocolate flavor works best here.

Can I use Nutella instead of hazelnut butter?

You can, but it will add more sugar and less protein. If you use Nutella, reduce or skip the added sweetener and keep the cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate taste.

How do I make it thicker?

Use a fully frozen banana, add more ice, or mix in 1–2 tablespoons of oats. Blend a little longer to aerate and thicken.

Is this good post-workout?

Yes.

It offers protein for recovery and carbs from banana for glycogen replenishment. If you need extra carbs post-workout, add half a banana or a few oats.

In Conclusion

This Chocolate Hazelnut Protein Holiday Shake feels like a treat, but it’s built to fuel your day. It’s quick, customizable, and cozy enough to match the season without weighing you down.

Keep the ingredients on hand, tweak the sweetness to your taste, and enjoy a festive shake that actually fits your goals.