If the following three words mean anything to you, then this recipe may not require further explanation: bowl of Nutella.

OK, so this chocolate hazelnut smoothie bowl doesn’t actually contain Nutella, but the combination of chocolate and hazelnuts comes pretty close. If you’re unfamiliar with Nutella, it’s an Italian chocolate-hazelnut spread that’s taken America by storm. It can be slathered on toast, combined with bananas in a crepe, or squeezed onto your froyo when you’re having a “me” day. It’s amazing, and very high in sugar.

This healthful interpretation of the chocolate-hazelnut delight contains much less sugar and is higher in protein, making it a nutritious meal that tastes more like a cheat treat than a fiber-packed power bowl.

Hazelnuts come from birch trees. Who knew? They contain tons of nutritional value, including dense amounts of fiber, folates, and fatty acids. Fun fact: They’re known in England as cobnuts.

Cacao, the main ingredient in chocolate, is a superfood. The higher the cacao percentage, the more nutritious the chocolate (it’ll also be darker and more bitter). Cacao beans are bursting with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, but when processed into chocolate, are loaded with sugar. That’s why this recipe calls for Chocolate Shakeology, which maintains the delectable flavor of chocolate, while offering a huge helping of protein, super-greens, fruits, and probiotics. Use Chocolate Vegan Shakeology for a 100-percent plant-based dish.

This Chocolate Hazelnut Smoothie Bowl is as simple to make as a normal glass of Shakeology; just throw it all in a blender and watch it whirl. However, it offers a thicker consistency — perfect for enjoying with a spoon. Plus, it’s garnished with shredded coconut and chopped dark chocolate for texture and sweetness, along with a sprinkling of sesame to add savory balance. It’s hard to believe this chocolate hazelnut smoothie bowl is actually good for you, but believe it! Miracles do happen.

Tip: The higher the percentage of cacao in chocolate, the better. Look for chocolate that is at least 70 percent cacao or higher.

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