Chocolate Coconut Smoothie

by Lindsay Cotter Updated: Jan 28, 2026

Dairy-Free Egg-Free Gluten-Free Grain-Free Low-Carb Nightshade-Free Vegan Whole30

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Thick, creamy, and rich, this chocolate coconut smoothie is completely gluten-free, dairy-free, and full of nutrients while tasting like dessert. Quick to make, it packs a punch of vitamins, nutrients, fiber, and healthy fats that make it perfect for an on-the-go breakfast or post-workout snack!

Single glass of chocolate coconut smoothie set against a bright white background.

I first created this chocolate shake years ago when my husband was still racing professionally. During his heavy training blocks — especially the recovery weeks where he needed more calories and steadier energy — this was one of the shakes he grabbed on repeat. The healthy fats kept him full, the carbs and minerals helped him bounce back faster, and the whole thing blended up thick and chocolatey (basically the dream combo for any endurance athlete).

These days, it’s my treat — something that feels like dessert but still gives me the nourishment I need and the hormone support. Sometimes I even warm it up and drink it like hot chocolate.

What started as a post-workout pick-me-up has now become my go-to for extra nutrients, steady energy, and a little “chocolate moment” at the end of the day.

Ingredients and Notes

Please be sure to scroll down to the recipe card for the complete ingredient list and instructions!

Measured ingredients for a chocolate coconut smoothie laid out on a marble surface.

Canned Coconut Milk – Use the white, thickened portion at the top of the can for the thickest consistency. Or, substitute plain Greek yogurt, if preferred.

Ingredient Swap: For a lighter coconut shake, use extra non-dairy milk instead.

Almond Milk – This helps blend the ingredients, creating a sippable consistency. For a stronger coconut taste, use liquid coconut milk instead.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – This adds deep chocolate flavor without the need for added sugar. It also provides minerals, like magnesium, and antioxidants to boost the immune system.
Sea Salt – Don’t skip this! Not only does it provide a boost of electrolytes, especially when paired with coconut milk, but it also enhances the flavor of the rest of the ingredients.
Creamy Nut or Seed Butter – Use peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower butter, or any nut or seed butter you like best to give the shake a creamier consistency.
Vanilla Extract – This adds depth to the smoothie and enhances the sweet, chocolatey taste.
Optional Natural Sweeteners – You can add 1-2 pitted dates, maple syrup, or honey to balance the bitterness of the cocoa, creating a dessert-inspired coconut shake without the need for refined sugar.
Optional Coconut Oil (MCT oil) or Coconut Butter – This not only adds flavor to the smoothie but also provides quick, steady energy, helps keep you fuller longer, and improves the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Alternatively, grass-fed butter can be used in place of coconut oil. It provides similar benefits and creates a rich, creamy taste.

Nutrition Note: Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which the body breaks down rapidly for fuel, while grass-fed butter offers CLA and omega-3s, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Possible Add-Ins

Fruit – Include fresh or frozen berries for a fruitier taste. Or, add banana for extra thickness and a sweeter flavor.
Plant-based Omegas and Fiber – Include chia seeds or flax seeds for a boost of fiber and omega fats.

Nutrition note: Chia and flaxseed can gently support women’s hormone health. Their healthy fats and natural plant compounds help your body handle estrogen more smoothly, and the fiber helps keep blood sugar steadier — both important for feeling more balanced day to day. Source

Protein – Add a scoop of collagen or your favorite protein powder to make your smoothie even more filling. Then, adjust the amount of almond milk as needed to ensure all the ingredients blend evenly.
Spices – Include a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cacao Nibs – Gently pulse these into your smoothie after blending for a little crunch, extra chocolatey flavor, and a boost of antioxidants.

Note: Feel free to add all or none of these extra ingredients. They’re all great for supporting digestion, inflammation, and overall nourishment, and, in my opinion, make the smoothie even more delicious.

How to Make a Chocolate Coconut Smoothie

Before You Blend: If you want that extra-thick creaminess, freeze the thickened coconut milk or yogurt in ice cube trays before blending. Let them freeze for at least 2–3 hours (overnight is even better

Combine. Combine the canned coconut milk or Greek yogurt and dairy-free milk in a blender. Add all the remaining ingredients except the coconut oil/butter.

Cocoa powder, almond butter, and coconut oil/butter placed in a blender before mixing.

Blended chocolate coconut mixture in a blender cup with a smooth, marble surface.

Pulse. Blend until smooth and creamy. Then, add the coconut oil (if using), and blend again.

Chocolate coconut smoothie being poured from a blender into a glass

Two glasses filled with freshly blended chocolate coconut smoothie

Serve. Adjust your smoothie to taste, and serve it as is. Or, top it with coconut whip, coconut flakes, or chocolate chips for a fun treat!

Serving Variations

Warm it up– Too chilly outside for a cold smoothie? Warm the coconut milk, and blend the ingredients for a creamy, low-carb hot chocolate!

Extra chilled– For a frosty-inspired option, I like to pour the blended shake into a cup or bowl and freeze it for 20-30 minutes or until it’s thick and spoonable.

Top view of a creamy chocolate coconut smoothie in a glass.

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