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If you’re looking for a smoothie that actually fills you up, tastes amazing, and gives you a solid nutrient boost — this is the one. As a chef, I’ve blended (and tossed) a lot of smoothie combinations in my day, but this one checks every box. It’s got crunch. It’s got creaminess. And it’s packed with good-for-you ingredients that do more than just sound healthy — they deliver real results.
This isn’t one of those watery fruit drinks that leaves you hungry an hour later. It’s a meal — a smoothie that eats like a bowl, blends like a dream, and energizes like a power nap and coffee had a baby.
Let’s dive into what makes this vegan smoothie a chef-approved powerhouse, and why the ingredients aren’t just trendy — they’re chosen for performance and flavour.
What Makes This Vegan Smoothie Stand Out?
Here’s the thing: most smoothies are overloaded with sugar and underwhelming in texture. But this one? It’s perfectly balanced between creamy, crunchy, sweet, and satisfying. And bonus — it’s entirely plant-based.
What really makes this smoothie shine are its functional ingredients: hemp seeds, chia seeds, cacao nibs, and cashews. Each one adds something different — from creamy body to texture to nutritional benefits. Let’s break it down.
Power Ingredient Breakdown
🌿 Hemp Hearts
Tiny but mighty. Hemp hearts are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which means they’ll keep you full and help support brain function. They’re nutty in flavour and blend beautifully for that creamy mouthfeel. Bonus: they’re super easy to digest and add a subtle richness without overpowering the smoothie.
🍫 Cacao Nibs
These aren’t your average chocolate chips. Cacao nibs bring a deep, slightly bitter chocolate flavour without any added sugar. Plus, they’re loaded with antioxidants, magnesium, and mood-boosting compounds (hello, theobromine). In this smoothie, they bring texture, flavour, and a little crunchy surprise in every sip.
🌱 Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are nutritional ninjas. Just one tablespoon adds fibre, protein, and omega-3s. Once soaked, they become gelatinous and help thicken the smoothie into something more spoonable and satisfying. They also help stabilize blood sugar — so no mid-morning crashes.
🥜 Cashews
Creamy, dreamy, and totally vegan. Soaking raw cashews before blending gives this smoothie a rich, velvety texture without needing dairy. They’re a good source of healthy fats and give this drink that “smoothie bar” vibe right from your own blender.
The Full Recipe – Chef-Approved Vegan Smoothie
Makes 1 giant smoothie (or 2 smaller ones)
Base (Soak this first):
- ¼ cup raw cashews
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp cacao nibs
- 2 tbsp peanut butter powder (like PB&Me)
- 3 tbsp hemp seeds
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (or to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 2 cups water
Let this soak for about 30 minutes to soften everything up. Trust me — this step makes the smoothie next level.
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Then blend with:
- 1 banana
- 2 cups frozen berries
- 1 cup ice
Blend longer than you think. Like, really blend it. The cashews and cacao nibs need time to fully break down, so let your blender do its thing for a good 60–90 seconds.
Substitutions
- No cacao nibs? Use a small handful of dark chocolate chips — just watch the sugar.
- Swap the berries: Mango, pineapple, or even frozen cherries work well here.
- Nut-free? Use sunflower seeds in place of cashews and skip the peanut butter powder.
- No maple syrup? Try a Medjool date or a splash of agave.
What to Know/Avoid in This Recipe
- Don’t skip the soaking! It’s what makes this smoothie ultra creamy.
- Don’t under-blend. It might look done, but the longer blend gets it silky smooth.
- Use a high-speed blender. A standard blender can work, but the texture won’t be as creamy.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness. Some days you want it fruitier, other days you need that maple syrup kick.
Storage Recommendations
This smoothie is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it:
- Pour it into a mason jar and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Give it a good shake or stir before drinking. The chia seeds and cashews will thicken it slightly as it sits.
- It also freezes well in popsicle moulds for a killer post-workout treat.
FAQ
Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
Yes! Just blend, store in a sealed jar, and enjoy within 24 hours. Shake well before drinking.
Is this smoothie filling enough for breakfast?
Absolutely. Between the protein, fibre, and healthy fats, this smoothie will keep you full for hours.
What can I use instead of banana?
Try frozen mango or a scoop of avocado for that same creamy texture.
Is this smoothie kid-friendly?
Yes! You might want to skip the cacao nibs if your kid isn’t into crunch — or blend a little longer.
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