Expo was a lot of fun and all, but I was missing smoothies almost the whole time. I ended up with a few bags of samples to take home (luckily I was able to check a separate suitcase), and I wanted to make something special with some of the items. Cocozia also happened to send me some samples of their Chocolate Coconut Water, and although I’ve been featuring some recipes using it on my Instagram, I couldn’t wait to share this particular recipe! This shake tastes like a delicious frappuccino, but it’s even better. Yes, Starbucks might have coconut milk, but I doubt that they have chocolate coconut water on hand! 

I’ve done a few recipes on this blog using Cocozia Coconut Water in the past. Their coconut water is organic, vegan, gluten-free and now comes in a few flavors. I love how pure it tastes, and it’s a great addition to my smoothies and shakes as an alternative to non-dairy milks. It has a ton of potassium and electrolytes to keep you feeling hydrated all day long. Fun fact: when I was in high school, I started an exercise routine but that didn’t mean I was eating the healthiest of foods. After a long and tough workout, I would drive over to Starbucks to get a Mocha Frappuccino Light (this was before my vegan days) thinking that it was actually a healthy option. Let’s just say…I’m really glad I crave these much healthier protein shakes instead!

This shake is a fantastic post-workout morning or afternoon treat because it’s dairy-free and made with a lot less sugar or fat than most frappuccinos. Keep reading on for the recipe, and if you want to purchase some Cocozia for yourself you can do that right here. I also used some samples from my Expo West bag including one of these Hemp Pro 70 sample packs from Manitoba Harvest. I’ve also been obsessed with these Italian Espresso Coconut Chips from Made in Nature. They have a smoked, espresso tastes and add a nice crunch to any recipe!

If this protein shake doesn’t have a good combo of ingredients, then I don”t know what does! You won’t find anything artificial in here, which is just the way I like my smoothies. Let me know what kinds of recipes you would use Cocozia’s chocolate or original coconut water for. Would you go for a smoothie or some decadent banana ice cream? I can say I’ve tried both of those and I highly recommend Cocozia if it’s new to you!