INDULGE IN HEALTH: 3 Easy Chocolate Recipes for a Fit Lifestyle

Celebrate World Chocolate Day with these 3 easy chocolate recipes, featuring a delicious shake, irresistible snack and a satisfying meal. Indulge in these quick and simple creations that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Take a moment for yourself and enjoy!

NOTE: all calories, protein, carbs and fats quantities are estimated as the exact nutritional value will vary depending on the products you’re using. 

Chocolate Protein Shake

Your perfect pre or post workout beverage for that extra burst of energy.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder
• 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 tablespoon of almond butter (or peanut butter)
• 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Ice cubes (optional)

METHOD

1. Combine the almond milk, ripe banana, almond butter, cocoa powder and vanilla extract in a blender.
2. Blend all the ingredients until they are smooth and thoroughly combined.
3. Add the scoop of chocolate protein powder into the blender and blend again until everything is thoroughly mixed.
4. Add a couple ice cubes to the shake if you’re after a colder and more refreshing beverage.
5. Pour the shake into a glass and enjoy!

OPTIONAL VARIATIONS

• Add a handful of spinach or kale to boost the nutritional content without altering the taste too much.
• You can also add a tablespoon of Greek yoghurt or a handful of raw nuts for an extra protein kick.

Protein-Packed Chocolate Energy Balls

Enjoy the on-the-go goodness and keep your energy levels high with these convenient snacks to fuel your day.

Calories: 120 | Protein: 10g | Carbs: 25g | Fats: 5g 

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup of rolled oats
• ½ cup of chocolate protein powder
• ½ cup of almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
• ¼ cup of honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
• ¼ cup of dark chocolate chips (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

METHOD

1. Combine the rolled oats, chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder and salt in a large mixing bowl.
2. After mixing through the dry ingredients, add in the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract to the bowl.
3. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together until well combined. If the mixture seems too dry, you can add a little more almond butter or honey to achieve the sticky consistency.
4. If you’re looking for more texture and flavour, fold in the dark chocolate chips.
5. Once the mixture is mixed well, spoon small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls.
6. Place the energy balls onto a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper.
7. Let the energy balls chill in the refrigerator for around 30 minutes to firm up.
8. Once the energy balls have chilled, they’re ready to be enjoyed! You can also keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

OPTIONAL VARIATIONS

• Feel free to experiment with different add-ins such as chopped nuts, dried fruits or seeds for added nutrition and flavour, customisable to your preferences.

Chocolate Protein Pancakes

The perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment to satisfy your cravings while also fuelling your body with a protein-packed breakfast.

Calories: 250 | Protein: 20g | Carbs: 30g | Fats: 5g 

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup of oat flour (you can make your own by grinding rolled oats in a blender)
• 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 2 eggs (or flax eggs if you’re after a vegan option)
• ½ cup of unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• Cooking spray or coconut oil for greasing the pain

METHOD

1. Combine the oat flour, chocolate protein powder, baking powder and salt in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, eggs and almond milk until they’re all well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, and combine until a smooth batter forms.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly spray with cooking spray or coconut oil.
5. Pour ¼ cup of the batter onto the pan for each pancake. Once bubbles form on the surface, flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until both sides are golden brown.
6. Repeat the process with the remaining batter.
7. Once all the pancakes are cooked, stack them up on a plate and enjoy!

OPTIONAL VARIATIONS

• Serve the protein pancakes with your favourite toppings such as sliced berries, Greek yogurt, nut butter or a drizzle of honey.

We hope you enjoy these recipes as much as we did! Be sure to tag us if you make any of them. We’d love to see your creations.