Weight loss conversations have dominated the health and fitness world, but weight gain is also as important and challenging for some people. If you’re looking to add some extra pounds, high-calorie smoothies can help you gain weight in a tasty and effective way.

While pre-made shakes and high-calorie smoothie mixes are readily available at your neighborhood store, they’re often not nutritional and have a rather bland taste. Making your own weight gain smoothie recipes gives you healthier yet delicious smoothies that you will enjoy.

If you’re looking for high-calorie yet super tasty smoothies to help you up your caloric intake and put on some weight in a healthy way, we have prepared some of the best healthy smoothie recipes for weight gain.

The Importance of High-Calorie Smoothies

High-calorie smoothies offer several potential benefits. Gaining weight is ‌about consuming more calories than your body burns. High-calorie smoothies provide a concentrated energy source, making achieving and maintaining a caloric surplus easier.

These smoothies can also serve as meal replacements as they contain essential nutrients, including proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, which ensures while you’re gaining weight, you’re also nourishing your body.

The liquid calories from protein shakes and smoothies also provide an opportunity to combine hydration with valuable nutrients. You can include liquid bases like milk or coconut water, ensuring you stay well-hydrated while boosting your calorie intake.

13 High-Calorie Smoothie Recipes

If you’re struggling to gain weight, it may be challenging to eat enough calories consistently. Here are 13 of the best smoothie recipes to help weight gain.

1. Protein-packed peanut butter and banana smoothie

This protein-packed smoothie is a bomb of flavor and nutrition, combining the classic peanut butter and banana duo. Loaded with protein and healthy fats, it’s a satisfying and energizing option for a quick breakfast for kids and adults or a post-workout refuel.

You can add vanilla protein powder for a protein boost, promoting muscle repair and maintenance.

In this combo, peanut butter offers healthy fats, promoting satiety and well-being. Bananas are rich sources of potassium, an essential electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance and muscle contractions.

You can add honey for an extra sweet kick and make your smoothie a delicious treat without excessive added sugars.  Add some ice cubes if you like a colder texture.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 mL) whole milk
• 2 ripe bananas
• 3 tbsps. (48 grams) peanut butter
• 1 scoop (25 grams) vanilla protein powder
• 1 tbsp. (15 grams) Honey
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.

2. Avocado-almond smoothie for healthy fats

The avocado-almond smoothie combines the creamy richness of avocado with the nutty goodness of almonds. Avocado is a rich source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, promoting cardiovascular health and sustaining energy. Almonds offer good amounts of vitamin E, magnesium, and protein.

This avocado almond smoothie is combined with almond milk and honey for a creamy and naturally sweet smoothie.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 mL) almond milk
• 1 ripe avocado, peeled and sliced
• 3 tbsp. (45 grams) almond butter
• 1 tbsp. (15 grams) honey or maple syrup
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth and velvety; serve immediately

3. Chocolate oats smoothie with Greek yogurt

Treat yourself to a yummy and healthy chocolate oats smoothie made extra creamy with Greek yogurt. Made with whole-grain rolled oats, chocolate protein powder, Greek yogurt, and banana, this smoothie provides a substantial protein boost and fiber that promotes digestive health and a sense of fullness.

The ripe banana and honey add natural sweetness, making this smoothie a great choice for a tasty breakfast or a snack after a post-workout refuel.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 mL) Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup (40 grams) rolled oats
• 2 tbsp. (14 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 scoop (25 grams) chocolate protein powder
• 1 tbsp. (15 grams) Honey
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Berry Nut smoothie for a burst of antioxidants

Berry Nut smoothie is like a colorful hug for your taste buds, combining the goodness of berries and nuts for a refreshing and healthy treat.

Mixed berries are rich in antioxidants, fiber, Vitamin C and K, and Manganese, which can help lower blood pressure, decrease the risk of heart disease, and improve memory.

Nuts, like almonds, walnuts, or cashews, add a crunch and provide healthy fats, making you feel full and satiated.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 mL) whole milk
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 3 tbsp. (48 grams) mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or cashews)
• 1 scoop (25 grams) vanilla protein powder
• 1 tbsp. (15 grams) honey
• A handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Toss all the ingredients into a blender.
2. Blend until everything becomes smooth.

5. Tropical mango macadamia smoothie for a taste of the tropics

This delightful tropical mango macadamia smoothie brings together the vibrant flavors of mango and the satisfying crunch of macadamia nuts, offering a refreshing and satisfying taste in every sip.

Mango brings a dose of vitamin C for a boosted and healthy immune system; macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch and healthy fats that keep you feeling full and energized. 

This smoothie is made with coconut milk, adding a creamy texture and a touch of the tropics, bringing healthy fats and a delicious flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 mL) coconut milk
• 1 cup mango chunks, frozen
• 2 tbsp. (30 grams) macadamia nuts
• 1 scoop (25 grams) vanilla protein powder
• 1 tbsp. (15 grams) honey
• A handful of ice cubes

Instructions

1. Toss all the ingredients into a blender.
2. Blend until everything becomes smooth.

6. Spinach and pineapple smoothie for nutrient boost

The spinach and pineapple smoothie is a green powerhouse that not only packs a punch of vitamins and minerals from fresh spinach but also brings a tropical twist with the sweet and tangy flavor of pineapple.

This smoothie is perfect for a morning pick-me-up, a post-workout refresher, and a great way to fuel your day.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 mL) coconut water
• 2 cups (60 grams) fresh spinach
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or frozen
• 1 medium banana
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) chia seeds (optional for added texture and nutrition)
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender, starting with the coconut water.
2. Blend until the mixture achieves a smooth and refreshing consistency.

7. Coconut cream smoothie for caloric density

Coconut cream smoothie is calorie-dense, a great way to supply enough calories to help you gain weight.

This smoothie combines whole foods like whole milk, bananas, coconut oil, and protein powder. These ingredients give you dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals necessary for overall health. 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 mL) coconut cream
• 1 banana, frozen
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) coconut oil
• 1 scoop (25 grams) vanilla protein powder
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender, starting with the coconut cream.
2. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and luscious, achieving a smooth consistency.

8. Hazelnut espresso chocolate smoothie for a morning kick

Is there a better combination than hazelnuts and chocolate? Hazelnut espresso chocolate smoothie is a great beverage to energize your morning. 

This smoothie combines the rich flavors of hazelnut and espresso with the indulgence of chocolate, kick-starting your day with a tasty dose of caffeine and a hint of nutty goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 mL) brewed espresso, cooled
• 1 banana, frozen
• 2 tablespoons (37 grams) hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
• 1 scoop (25 grams) chocolate protein powder
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) unsweetened cocoa powder
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions

1. Brew a cup of espresso and allow it to cool.
2. Combine all ingredients in a blender. Add the cooled espresso first.
3. Blend until smooth
4. Add a handful of ice cubes for a refreshing and icy touch.

9. Cinnamon roll smoothie for sweet cravings

Specially crafted for those with a sweet tooth, the cinnamon roll smoothie brings the warm flavor from the cinnamon, combined with the richness of vanilla, in a wholesome and satisfying blend.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 mL) almond milk
• Greek yogurt
• Oats
• 1 banana, frozen
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon (16 grams) almond butter
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender, starting with the almond milk and yogurt.
2. Blend until the mixture achieves a dreamy and smooth consistency.

10. Blueberry cheesecake smoothie for indulgence

Blueberry cheesecake smoothie is an ultra-refreshing drink great for an afternoon snack or breakfast on a hot summer morning. 

This rich and creamy blend is designed to satisfy your cravings for something sweet, making it the perfect guilt-free indulgence. The blueberries add a burst of antioxidants to your body, prompting your health.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 mL) whole milk or a milk alternative of your choice
• 1/2 cup (75 grams) blueberries, fresh or frozen
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) almond butter
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender, with the milk as the base.
2. Blend until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.

11. Mango avocado and coconut smoothie for tropical vibes

Avocado and mango make the perfect smoothie. Mango and coconut’s tropical flavor paired with avocado’s smoothness complement each other well.

Plus, mango provides vitamin C for immune support, avocado adds healthy fats and a dose of potassium, while coconut offers hydration and a hint of exotic flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 mL) coconut water
• 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1/2 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) shredded coconut
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) lime juice
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions

1. Pour coconut water into the blender as the base.
2. Add diced mango, avocado, shredded coconut, and lime juice to the blender.
3. Blend until the mixture achieves a smooth consistency

12. Almond Joy smoothie for a nutty twist

The Almond Joy Smoothie captures the essence of the popular candy bar in a wholesome and nutritious drink. It’s made healthy with chocolate, almond milk, banana, and coconut for a simple breakfast or snack!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 mL) almond milk
• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) shredded coconut
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) almond butter
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) honey or maple syrup (optional for added sweetness)
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions

1. Pour almond milk into the blender as the liquid base.
2. Add banana, shredded coconut, almond butter, cocoa powder, and the optional sweetener.
3. Blend Until Smooth

13. Pecan pie smoothie for a dessert-like delight

A pecan pie smoothie can satisfy your cravings, help you achieve your weight goals, and keep you full for longer. This smoothie is a great source of healthy fat, protein, dietary fiber, and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 mL) almond milk
• 1/2 cup (60 grams) pecans, toasted
• 1 ripe banana
• 2 tablespoons (30 grams) rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon (15 grams) maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Dash of vanilla extract
• Handful of ice cubes

Instructions

1. Pour almond milk into the blender as the liquid base.
2. Add toasted pecans, ripe banana, rolled oats, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
3. Blend until the mixture achieves a creamy and smooth consistency.

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Healthy High-Calorie Smoothies

Choosing healthy, high-calorie smoothies involves selecting nutrient-dense ingredients that provide a balance of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals. Here are some tips on choosing the right ingredients for your nutritious, calorie-packed smoothies:

Base: The liquid base of your smoothie contributes to its overall texture and caloric content. Choose a liquid base that adds calories and nutrients. Examples include whole milk, coconut milk, almond milk, or yogurt. 

Fruits: Choose fruits that are higher in calories, such as bananas, avocados, mangoes, and dried fruits. Fruits will enhance the sweetness and flavor and add essential vitamins and antioxidants to your smoothie.

Vegetables: Incorporating nutrient-rich vegetables like spinach, kale, or cauliflower boosts the nutritional value of your smoothie without compromising taste. Veggies also provide additional vitamins and fiber.

Protein sources: Including a protein source is crucial for muscle maintenance and repair. Options like protein powder (whey, pea, hemp, or soy), Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, or nut butter add protein and creaminess.

Healthy fats: Incorporate sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds, to increase the calorie density of your smoothie. Healthy fats contribute to a feeling of fullness and provide sustained energy.

Whole grains: Adding whole grains like oats provides complex carbohydrates and fiber. This contributes to the feeling of fullness and ensures a steady release of energy throughout the day.

Sweeteners: Use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to add sweetness without using refined sugars or artificial sweeteners. These options provide a more wholesome source of sweetness.

How Can I Add More Calories to My Smoothie?

You can boost the calorie content of your smoothie effortlessly and deliciously. You can do this by adding ingredients like nut butters such as almond, peanut, or cashew butter. Just a couple of tablespoons will add a good amount of calories, healthy fats and protein. Avocado can also be a great addition to your smoothie. Half an avocado can increase the creaminess of your smoothie, add healthy fats and extra calories.

Switching to full-fat dairy products can also make a big difference. Use whole milk, full-fat yogurt, or even heavy cream instead of lower-fat options. These, also adds creaminess and boost the calorie content of your smoothie.

For additional fiber and calories, consider blending in oats and grains. Rolled oats, quinoa, or cooked rice can make your smoothie more filling and nutritious. Natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or dates also increase the calorie count and enhance the sweetness and add essential nutrients to smoothies.

Coconut products such as coconut milk, coconut cream, or shredded coconut are particularly calorie-dense and add a delightful tropical flavor to your smoothie. Similarly, seeds like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and hemp hearts, though small, are powerful in adding calories, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Protein powders can also be a great addition. Whether you choose whey, casein, or plant-based protein, these powders can significantly increase both the calorie and protein content, making your smoothie ideal for post-workout recovery.

High-calorie fruits like bananas and mangoes can also be a great addition. These fruits add natural sweetness and a powerful calorie boost. An additional tablespoon of oils such as coconut oil, flaxseed oil, or olive oil can provide extra calories and healthy fats without altering the flavor too much.

Tips for Incorporating High-Calorie Smoothies into Your Routine

Incorporating high-calorie smoothies into your routine can be a delicious and convenient way to boost your calorie intake. But it requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some tips to help you:

Drink between meals or as a snack: Consuming high-calorie smoothies between meals can supplement your overall caloric intake. Schedule your smoothie consumption as a snack or between meals to avoid feeling too full during main meals.

Stay consistent: Consistency is key when aiming for weight gain. Make high-calorie smoothies a consistent part of your routine, ideally at the same time each day, to ensure you consistently meet your calorie goals.

Monitor and adjust: Regularly assess your progress and adjust your smoothie recipes and portion sizes accordingly. Monitor your weight gain progress, and if needed, make adjustments to your smoothie recipes to meet changing caloric requirements.

Customize portion sizes: Tailor your smoothie portion sizes to your individual calorie needs. Adjust the quantities of ingredients based on your daily caloric goals, ensuring that each smoothie contributes to your weight gain objectives.

Use high-calorie toppings: Toppings can add extra calories without increasing the smoothie volume. Sprinkle chopped nuts, seeds, or granola on your smoothie for a caloric boost and added texture.

Consult with a registered dietitian: gaining weight should be approached in a healthy and gradual manner. If you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions, it’s advisable to consult with a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

How to Make Healthier Versions of High-Calorie Smoothies at Home

Creating healthier versions of high-calorie smoothies involves making mindful ingredient choices to maximize nutrition while maintaining a delicious taste. Here are some tips:

• Choose ingredients that are not only calorie-dense but also rich in nutrients. Include fruits, vegetables, and protein sources that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Incorporate whole foods rather than processed ingredients. For example, choose whole fruits instead of juices and include whole grains like oats instead of sugary cereals.
• Boost the nutritional content by adding leafy greens like spinach or kale. These greens contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber without significantly altering the taste.
• Choose lean protein sources to support muscle health without excessive saturated fat intake. 
• Minimize the use of added sugars to prevent unnecessary empty calories. Use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup in moderation, and rely on the natural sweetness of fruits.
• Use water as the liquid base for your smoothie instead of sugary juices or sweetened beverages. This helps maintain hydration without adding unnecessary calories.

Conclusion

High-calorie smoothies are a valuable tool if you aim to gain weight in a healthy and controlled manner. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients, these smoothies offer a convenient way to boost your calorie intake while providing essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. 

Whether used as snacks, meal replacements, or supplements to regular meals, high-calorie smoothies can help you achieve your weight gain goals. Remember that one size doesn’t fit all; experiment with different ingredients to get a smoothie that fits your taste buds.