Just finished an intense workout and craving something delicious that also helps your muscles recover? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve gathered 18 irresistible chocolate protein drink recipes that taste like dessert but deliver serious recovery benefits. From creamy shakes to frosty smoothies, these easy-to-make drinks will become your new post-exercise favorites. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering creations that make muscle recovery an absolute treat!
Classic Chocolate Almond Protein Shake
Gently stirring the spoon through the creamy surface, I remember how this simple shake became my quiet morning ritual, a moment of calm before the day unfolds. There’s something deeply comforting about the way chocolate and almond mingle, creating a familiar warmth that feels like a soft blanket for the soul. It’s a small, nourishing pause that reminds me to breathe and savor the simple things.
Ingredients
Almond milk – 1 cup
Chocolate protein powder – 2 scoops
Almond butter – 2 tbsp
Ice cubes – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of almond milk into a high-speed blender.
2. Add 2 scoops of chocolate protein powder to the blender.
3. Measure 2 tablespoons of almond butter and add it to the blender.
4. Place 1 cup of ice cubes into the blender.
5. Secure the blender lid tightly to prevent leaks.
6. Blend on medium speed for 15 seconds to combine ingredients.
7. Increase to high speed and blend for 45 seconds, or until the shake is completely smooth with no visible ice chunks.
8. Stop the blender and check consistency by tilting the pitcher; if any ice remains, blend for another 15 seconds.
9. Pour the shake immediately into a chilled glass to maintain its frosty texture.
A velvety smoothness coats your tongue first, followed by the rich chocolate notes that deepen with each sip. The subtle almond undertones emerge gradually, creating a layered flavor experience that feels both indulgent and nourishing. For a special touch, rim your glass with crushed toasted almonds or drizzle with melted dark chocolate before pouring.
Rich Cocoa Banana Boost Smoothie
Zigzagging through my thoughts this quiet afternoon, I found myself craving something both comforting and energizing, a drink that could wrap me in warmth while giving me the gentle lift I needed. Sometimes the simplest combinations create the most profound moments of satisfaction, especially when they come together in just minutes. This smoothie feels like a quiet conversation with myself, blending familiar flavors into something new.
Ingredients
– Frozen banana – 1 large
– Unsweetened cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
– Milk – 1 cup
– Honey – 1 tbsp
– Ice cubes – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Peel the frozen banana and break it into 3 pieces with your hands.
2. Measure 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and add it to your blender.
3. Pour 1 cup of milk directly into the blender with the cocoa powder.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the blender.
5. Place ½ cup of ice cubes into the blender last.
6. Secure the blender lid tightly and blend on high speed for 45 seconds until completely smooth.
7. Stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula to incorporate any stubborn cocoa powder.
8. Blend for another 15 seconds until no streaks remain and the texture is uniformly creamy.
9. Pour the smoothie immediately into a tall glass.
The resulting texture is luxuriously thick and velvety, coating the glass in deep chocolate waves. The banana provides a natural sweetness that mingles beautifully with the rich cocoa, creating something that feels indulgent yet wonderfully simple. I sometimes sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top or serve it with a cinnamon-dusted rim for an extra dimension of flavor.
Creamy Mocha Peanut Butter Protein Drink
Zigzagging through my morning thoughts, I find myself reaching for something that feels both indulgent and nourishing. This creamy mocha peanut butter protein drink has become my quiet companion on these reflective days, blending comfort with just enough energy to carry me forward gently.
Ingredients
– Unsweetened almond milk – 1 cup
– Strong brewed coffee – ½ cup
– Creamy peanut butter – 2 tbsp
– Chocolate protein powder – 1 scoop
– Ice cubes – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Brew ½ cup of strong coffee using your preferred method and let it cool to room temperature for about 15 minutes.
2. Pour 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk into your blender pitcher.
3. Add the cooled coffee to the blender with the almond milk.
4. Measure 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter and add it to the liquid ingredients.
5. Scoop 1 portion of chocolate protein powder into the blender.
6. Add ½ cup of ice cubes to the blender.
7. Secure the blender lid tightly and blend on high speed for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth and frothy.
8. Pour the finished drink immediately into your favorite glass.
A silky texture carries the deep mocha flavor, with peanut butter adding a comforting richness that lingers pleasantly. Sometimes I’ll sprinkle a few cacao nibs on top for subtle crunch, or pour it over additional ice for a more refreshing take on these warmer mornings.
Choco-Coconut Power Punch
Kind of like finding an old photograph in a forgotten drawer, this recipe surfaced during a quiet afternoon when I needed something both comforting and energizing. It’s a simple blend that feels like a warm hug, yet packs enough punch to carry you through the day. Let’s make it together, slowly and with care.
Ingredients
– Unsweetened cocoa powder – 3 tbsp
– Coconut milk – 1 cup
– Maple syrup – 2 tbsp
– Ice cubes – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of coconut milk into a blender.
2. Add 3 tbsp of unsweetened cocoa powder to the blender.
3. Measure 2 tbsp of maple syrup and add it to the blender.
4. Place 1 cup of ice cubes into the blender.
5. Secure the blender lid tightly to prevent spills.
6. Blend on high speed for 45 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and no ice chunks remain.
7. Pause blending and scrape down the sides with a spatula if any ingredients are stuck.
8. Blend for another 15 seconds to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
9. Pour the mixture immediately into a tall glass.
Velvety and rich, this drink coats your tongue with deep chocolate notes, while the coconut milk lends a subtle creaminess that lingers. For a playful twist, serve it in a chilled mason jar with a reusable straw, or sprinkle a pinch of cocoa on top just before sipping. It’s a quiet indulgence that feels both nourishing and decadent, perfect for those moments when you need a gentle boost.
Velvety Dark Chocolate Berry Smoothie
Cradling this cool glass between my palms, I find myself returning to this simple ritual whenever the afternoon light slants just so through the kitchen window, a quiet moment suspended between the day’s demands. It’s a small, velvety indulgence that feels both like a treat and a gentle pause, the deep chocolate and bright berries mingling in a way that soothes as much as it satisfies.
Ingredients
Frozen mixed berries – 1 cup
Dark chocolate chips – ¼ cup
Plain Greek yogurt – ½ cup
Milk – ¾ cup
Honey – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Measure 1 cup of frozen mixed berries and place them directly into the blender pitcher.
2. Add ¼ cup of dark chocolate chips to the blender with the berries.
3. Spoon ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt into the blender pitcher.
4. Pour ¾ cup of milk over the other ingredients in the blender.
5. Drizzle 1 tbsp of honey into the mixture.
6. Secure the blender lid tightly onto the pitcher.
7. Blend the mixture on high speed for exactly 45 seconds, or until no solid berry pieces remain visible and the chocolate is fully incorporated.
8. Stop the blender and check the consistency by dipping a spoon into the mixture; if it’s too thick, add 1 additional tbsp of milk and blend for 10 more seconds.
9. Pour the finished smoothie immediately into a tall glass.
Each sip reveals a luxurious texture that’s both cooling and rich, with the tart berry notes cutting beautifully through the deep chocolate intensity. For a special touch, try rimming the glass with melted dark chocolate and crushed freeze-dried raspberries before pouring, creating an experience that feels decadent yet remains wonderfully simple to create.
Mint Chocolate Green Protein Shake
Years of rushed mornings have taught me that the simplest rituals often become the most sacred. Yesterday’s leftover greens, a forgotten scoop of protein powder, and a handful of chocolate chips came together in a quiet moment of kitchen alchemy, creating something unexpectedly comforting. This mint chocolate green protein shake feels less like a recipe and more like a gentle reminder to pause and nourish.
Ingredients
Spinach – 1 cup
Mint leaves – ¼ cup
Chocolate protein powder – 1 scoop
Milk – 1 cup
Ice cubes – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Measure 1 cup of fresh spinach and gently pack it into the bottom of your blender.
2. Add ¼ cup of fresh mint leaves, stripping them from their stems first for the purest flavor.
3. Pour 1 cup of cold milk over the greens to help them blend more smoothly.
4. Scoop 1 serving of chocolate protein powder directly into the liquid.
5. Add ½ cup of ice cubes to create a thick, frothy texture.
6. Secure the blender lid tightly and blend on high speed for 45 seconds until completely smooth.
7. Pause blending and scrape down the sides with a spatula to incorporate any stubborn powder.
8. Blend for another 15 seconds until no green flecks remain and the texture is uniformly creamy.
9. Pour immediately into a tall glass, using the spatula to get every last drop.
Layers of cool mint weave through rich chocolate in a shake that’s surprisingly creamy despite containing no banana or yogurt. The deep green color hints at its nourishing qualities while the frothy top catches the light like morning dew. Sometimes I pour it into a chilled mason jar and sip it slowly while watching the sunrise, letting each cool mouthful settle like a quiet promise for the day ahead.
Chocolate Hazelnut Dream Beverage
Musing over the steam rising from my mug, I remember how this chocolate hazelnut dream beverage became my quiet afternoon companion, a warm embrace in liquid form that transforms ordinary moments into something softly magical.
Ingredients
– Whole milk – 1 cup
– Chocolate hazelnut spread – 3 tbsp
– Vanilla extract – ½ tsp
– Whipped cream – 2 tbsp
– Ground cinnamon – ¼ tsp
Instructions
1. Pour 1 cup of whole milk into a small saucepan. 2. Heat the milk over medium-low heat until it reaches 160°F on a kitchen thermometer, stirring occasionally with a whisk to prevent scorching. 3. Add 3 tablespoons of chocolate hazelnut spread to the warm milk. 4. Whisk continuously for 2 minutes until the spread is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth. 5. Stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. 6. Continue heating for 1 more minute while whisking to incorporate all flavors evenly. 7. Remove the saucepan from heat immediately when tiny bubbles form around the edges. 8. Pour the beverage into a heat-safe mug using a ladle to avoid spills. 9. Top with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream, allowing it to melt slightly into the drink. Knowing how the velvety warmth coats your throat with each sip, this dreamy blend of nutty chocolate and subtle spice invites you to linger—try dusting the cream with extra cinnamon or serving it alongside shortbread cookies for dipping into the rich depths.
Espresso Chocolate Energy Burst Smoothie
Kindly, I find myself reaching for this smoothie on mornings when the world feels heavy and my energy needs a gentle nudge rather than a jolt. It’s a quiet ritual, blending deep chocolate and rich espresso into something that feels like a warm, liquid hug.
Ingredients
Espresso – ½ cup
Banana – 1 medium
Cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
Almond milk – 1 cup
Ice cubes – 1 cup
Instructions
1. Brew ½ cup of strong espresso and let it cool completely to room temperature, about 15 minutes, to prevent the smoothie from becoming watery.
2. Peel 1 medium banana and break it into chunks for easier blending.
3. Add the banana chunks, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 cup almond milk, and the cooled espresso to a high-speed blender.
4. Secure the blender lid tightly and blend on high speed for 30 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth with no banana lumps.
5. Add 1 cup of ice cubes to the blender. For a creamier texture, use frozen banana instead of fresh and reduce ice to ½ cup.
6. Blend again on high speed for 45–60 seconds, pausing to scrape down the sides if needed, until the smoothie is thick, frothy, and uniformly dark.
7. Pour immediately into a tall glass. A pro tip: rinse the blender jar with a splash of almond milk right after pouring to capture every last bit.
Oh, the result is velvety and deeply satisfying, with the bitter espresso weaving through the sweet banana and cocoa. I love sipping it slowly, watching the morning light, or pouring it into a chilled mason jar for a peaceful walk in the garden.
Nutty Chocolate Oatmeal Protein Drink
Oatmeal, chocolate, and a quiet morning—sometimes the simplest combinations feel like coming home. There’s something grounding about blending warm oats with rich cocoa, turning breakfast into a moment of calm before the day begins. This nutty chocolate oatmeal protein drink is my gentle ritual, a creamy sip that feels both nourishing and deeply comforting.
Ingredients
Rolled oats – ½ cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
Almond butter – 2 tbsp
Vanilla protein powder – 1 scoop
Milk – 1 ½ cups
Ice – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Add ½ cup of rolled oats to a high-speed blender.
2. Pour in 1 ½ cups of milk and let the oats soak for 5 minutes to soften naturally.
3. Measure 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder and add it to the blender.
4. Spoon 2 tablespoons of almond butter into the mixture.
5. Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder to the blender.
6. Place ½ cup of ice into the blender.
7. Blend on high speed for 45 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and no oat pieces remain.
8. Check the consistency by tilting the blender; if it’s too thick, add 2 more tablespoons of milk and blend for 10 seconds.
9. Pour the drink immediately into a tall glass.
Let the velvety texture coat your tongue, with the nutty almond butter swirling through each chocolate-kissed sip. I love serving it in a mason jar with a reusable straw, or pouring it over extra ice for a frothy, chilled treat that feels like a quiet indulgence.
Silky Chocolate Chia Delight
Cradling this warm mug, I remember how autumn evenings like this one call for something simple yet deeply comforting—a quiet moment with a chocolate treat that feels like a gentle embrace after the day settles. This silky pudding comes together with just a few ingredients, letting the richness of cocoa and the magic of chia seeds create something softly indulgent.
Ingredients
– Chia seeds – ¼ cup
– Unsweetened cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
– Maple syrup – 3 tbsp
– Milk – 1 cup
– Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
Instructions
1. Combine ¼ cup chia seeds, 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, and 3 tbsp maple syrup in a medium bowl.
2. Pour 1 cup milk into the bowl while whisking continuously to prevent clumps from forming.
3. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract and whisk for 1 full minute until the mixture is completely smooth.
4. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the mixture to prevent a skin from forming.
5. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
6. Stir the pudding vigorously with a spoon to break up any gel clusters and create a uniform texture.
7. Divide the pudding evenly between two serving glasses using a spatula to scrape the bowl clean.
Layers of velvety chocolate unfold with each spoonful, the chia seeds lending a delicate tapioca-like texture that melts on the tongue. For a whimsical twist, top it with crushed peppermint candies or swirl in a spoonful of raspberry jam just before serving—each variation feels like discovering a new secret in your own kitchen.
Tropical Chocolate Macadamia Shake
Vaguely remembering the warmth of tropical breezes, I find myself craving something that bridges summer’s lingering sweetness with autumn’s comforting embrace. This simple shake brings together just a few ingredients that transport me instantly to sunnier shores, blending rich chocolate with buttery macadamias in a way that feels both indulgent and peaceful. Sometimes the simplest combinations create the most profound moments of contentment.
Ingredients
Chocolate ice cream – 2 cups
Milk – ¾ cup
Macadamia nuts – ¼ cup
Whipped cream – 2 tbsp
Instructions
1. Place 2 cups of chocolate ice cream in a blender.
2. Pour ¾ cup of milk over the ice cream.
3. Add ¼ cup of macadamia nuts to the blender.
4. Blend on medium speed for 45 seconds until the mixture becomes smooth and the nuts are finely chopped.
5. Stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.
6. Blend for another 15 seconds until the shake reaches a uniform, creamy consistency.
7. Pour the shake into a tall glass, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
8. Top with 2 tablespoons of whipped cream.
9. Garnish with a few extra macadamia nuts if desired.
Effortlessly creamy with subtle crunch, this shake offers a beautiful contrast between the smooth chocolate base and the occasional nutty surprise. The richness of the chocolate ice cream melds perfectly with the buttery macadamias, creating a dessert that feels both luxurious and comforting. Try serving it with a tropical fruit skewer on the side for an extra touch of island paradise.
Cinnamon Spiced Chocolate Protein Smoothie
Cinnamon Spiced Chocolate Protein Smoothie
Calmly stirring my morning thoughts, I find myself reaching for this smoothie more often as the weather cools—its gentle spices and rich chocolate notes feel like a warm embrace in a glass, a quiet ritual that grounds me before the day unfolds.
Ingredients
– Frozen banana – 1 large
– Chocolate protein powder – 1 scoop
– Unsweetened cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
– Ground cinnamon – 1 tsp
– Almond milk – 1 cup
– Ice cubes – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Add 1 large frozen banana to a high-speed blender.
2. Measure 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder and add it to the blender.
3. Spoon 2 tbsp of unsweetened cocoa powder into the blender.
4. Sprinkle 1 tsp of ground cinnamon over the other ingredients.
5. Pour 1 cup of almond milk into the blender.
6. Add ½ cup of ice cubes to the blender.
7. Secure the blender lid tightly to prevent leaks.
8. Blend on high speed for 45-60 seconds until completely smooth and no ice chunks remain.
9. Pause blending and scrape down the sides with a spatula if any ingredients stick.
10. Blend for another 15 seconds to ensure perfect consistency.
11. Pour the smoothie immediately into a tall glass.
Decadently creamy with a velvety texture that coats your spoon, this smoothie balances deep chocolate warmth with cinnamon’s gentle heat—try drizzling it with a swirl of almond butter or sprinkling crushed cocoa nibs on top for contrasting crunch.
Hazelnut Toffee Chocolate Shake
There are moments when only a certain kind of comfort will do, a quiet craving that settles in the late afternoon light. This hazelnut toffee chocolate shake is for those moments, a simple indulgence that feels like a warm embrace. It’s a treat that requires little effort but delivers deep, layered sweetness, perfect for sipping slowly while the world outside goes quiet.
Ingredients
– Vanilla ice cream – 2 cups
– Whole milk – ¾ cup
– Chocolate hazelnut spread – ¼ cup
– Toffee bits – 3 tbsp
– Whipped cream – for serving
Instructions
1. Place 2 cups of vanilla ice cream into a blender.
2. Pour ¾ cup of whole milk over the ice cream.
3. Add ¼ cup of chocolate hazelnut spread to the blender.
4. Sprinkle in 3 tbsp of toffee bits.
5. Secure the blender lid tightly.
6. Blend on medium speed for 15 seconds.
7. Pause blending and scrape down the sides with a spatula to incorporate any unmixed ingredients.
8. Blend again on high speed for 20–30 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth and no ice cream chunks remain.
9. Pour the shake immediately into a tall glass.
10. Top generously with whipped cream.
11. Sprinkle additional toffee bits over the whipped cream for extra crunch.
Knowing how the toffee bits soften slightly in the cold shake creates a delightful contrast with the creamy, rich base. The chocolate hazelnut flavor deepens as it mellows, making each sip a little more complex than the last. For a playful twist, drizzle the inside of the glass with extra chocolate hazelnut spread before pouring, creating sweet streaks with every lift of the spoon.
Smooth Chocolate Avocado Power Drink
Beneath the quiet hum of morning, I find myself reaching for ingredients that feel like comfort, that promise gentle energy for the day ahead. This smooth chocolate avocado power drink has become my ritual, a creamy blend that satisfies both hunger and that deep need for something nurturing. It’s simple, really—just a few good things whirred together into a moment of calm.
Ingredients
– Avocado – ½ medium
– Unsweetened cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
– Maple syrup – 2 tbsp
– Milk – 1 cup
– Ice cubes – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Cut the avocado in half lengthwise and remove the pit.
2. Scoop the flesh from one avocado half into a blender.
3. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder to the blender.
4. Pour in the maple syrup.
5. Add the milk to the blender.
6. Drop in the ice cubes.
7. Secure the blender lid tightly.
8. Blend on high speed for 45 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and no ice chunks remain.
9. Pour the drink immediately into a tall glass.
My favorite part is that first sip—the cool, velvety texture coats your throat, while the rich chocolate flavor, just sweet enough, lingers softly. Sometimes I’ll sprinkle a tiny pinch of cocoa on top or serve it with a sprig of mint for a fresh contrast, making this simple drink feel like a small, deliberate treat.
Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Protein Sip
Often, when autumn arrives, I find myself craving something that warms from within while nourishing the body—a quiet moment of comfort in a cup. On days like today, this pumpkin spice chocolate protein sip feels like a gentle embrace, blending seasonal spices with rich cocoa in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Ingredients
Pumpkin puree – ½ cup
Unsweetened cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
Vanilla protein powder – 1 scoop
Pumpkin pie spice – 1 tsp
Milk – 1 cup
Maple syrup – 1 tbsp
Instructions
1. Add ½ cup of pumpkin puree to a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder until no dry streaks remain.
3. Stir in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, coating the mixture evenly.
4. Pour in 1 cup of milk slowly while continuously whisking to prevent clumping.
5. Heat the mixture until it reaches 160°F on a kitchen thermometer, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for 2 minutes to prevent the protein powder from curdling.
7. Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup, whisking vigorously for 30 seconds until fully dissolved and frothy.
8. Pour the sip into a mug and serve immediately.
Pouring this sip into a favorite mug, the velvety texture coats the tongue with layers of spiced pumpkin and deep chocolate, while the protein lends a subtle creaminess that satisfies without heaviness. For a cozy twist, try garnishing with a cinnamon stick or serving it chilled over ice—it transforms into a refreshing, frothy treat that carries autumn’s warmth in every sip.
Double Chocolate Green Spinach Smoothie
Kind of like finding an old photograph you’d forgotten about, this smoothie recipe surfaced during a quiet morning when I needed both comfort and nourishment. It’s become my secret way to embrace the day gently, with chocolate’s familiar warmth and greens’ quiet strength. Sometimes the simplest combinations hold the deepest satisfaction.
Ingredients
– Frozen banana – 1 large
– Fresh spinach – 2 cups
– Unsweetened cocoa powder – 2 tbsp
– Chocolate protein powder – 1 scoop
– Almond milk – 1 cup
– Ice cubes – ½ cup
Instructions
1. Measure 2 cups of fresh spinach and pack it lightly into your measuring cup.
2. Peel one large frozen banana and break it into three chunks using your hands.
3. Add the spinach, banana chunks, 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1 scoop chocolate protein powder to your blender pitcher.
4. Pour 1 cup of almond milk over the dry ingredients to help them blend smoothly.
5. Add ½ cup of ice cubes on top of the other ingredients.
6. Secure the blender lid tightly and begin blending on low speed for 15 seconds to break down the larger pieces.
7. Increase to high speed and blend for 45-60 seconds until the mixture appears completely smooth with no visible spinach flecks.
8. Stop the blender and use a spatula to scrape down the sides if any ingredients are stuck.
9. Blend for another 15-20 seconds on high to ensure perfect consistency.
10. Pour immediately into a tall glass and serve right away.
You’ll notice the texture stays remarkably creamy from the frozen banana, while the deep chocolate flavor completely masks any vegetable notes. Try pouring it into popsicle molds for frozen treats, or layer it with Greek yogurt for a beautiful parfait that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Conclusion
Zesty and nutritious, these chocolate protein drinks make muscle recovery deliciously simple. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just looking for a healthy treat, there’s a perfect recipe waiting for you. We’d love to hear which ones become your favorites—drop us a comment below! Don’t forget to share these tasty ideas with friends by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy blending!
