Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana

My blender was still dirty from the night before when I decided to throw this together on a groggy Tuesday morning. I almost skipped it, but the thought of chocolate and peanut butter won. That first sip woke me up faster than coffee ever could, and I've been hooked ever since.

I made this for my sister once after her early shift at the hospital. She sat at my kitchen counter in her scrubs, eyes barely open, and finished the whole glass before saying a word. Then she asked for the recipe, which is how I knew it was a keeper.

Ingredients

• Ripe banana: The riper it is, the sweeter your smoothie becomes naturally, so those brown spotted ones are actually perfect here.
• Milk: I usually grab whatever is in the fridge, oat milk makes it extra creamy while almond keeps it light.
• Peanut butter: Natural peanut butter adds richness without weird additives, and a little goes a long way in flavor.
• Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives you deep chocolate flavor without turning this into a milkshake.
• Honey or maple syrup: Totally optional, I skip it most days and let the banana do the sweetening.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash rounds out the chocolate and makes everything smell amazing.
• Ice cubes: These make it frosty and thick, but frozen banana works even better if you plan ahead.

Instructions

Load the blender:

Toss in the banana, milk, peanut butter, cocoa powder, sweetener, vanilla, and ice. I always add the liquid first so the blades don't get stuck on the peanut butter.

Blend until smooth:

Run it on high for about 30 to 45 seconds until you see no streaks of cocoa and everything looks velvety. If its too thick, splash in a little more milk and pulse again.

Taste and tweak:

Give it a quick taste and add more honey if you want it sweeter. This is your smoothie, make it how you like it.

Pour and enjoy:

Divide between two glasses and drink it right away while its cold and creamy.

Pin Recipe

There was a morning last summer when I made this after a long run, sat on the back porch, and realized I didnt need anything fancy to feel good. Just a cold glass, a quiet minute, and flavors that made me smile.

Make It Your Own

I sometimes throw in a scoop of protein powder when I need extra fuel, chocolate or vanilla both work beautifully. You can also swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if thats what you have, the smoothie stays just as rich and satisfying.

Serving Ideas

I like to pour mine into a tall glass and top it with banana slices or a drizzle of peanut butter for a little flair. Sometimes Ill add a few cocoa nibs on top for crunch, especially if Im pretending its brunch instead of just breakfast.

Storage and Prep

This smoothie is best fresh, but if you have leftovers you can keep them in the fridge for a few hours and give it a good shake before drinking. For easier mornings, I slice bananas ahead of time and freeze them in a bag so everything blends faster.

• Peel and freeze ripe bananas in chunks for instant thickness.
• Prep your add ins the night before and leave them by the blender.
• Double the recipe and save half in a mason jar for later that day.

Pin Recipe

This smoothie has become my go to whenever I need something quick, comforting, and a little indulgent without any guilt. I hope it becomes one of your easy favorites too.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use plant-based milk for this drink?

Yes, plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk works well and maintains the creamy texture.

→ How can I make the texture thicker?

Using frozen banana slices instead of ice cubes or adding extra peanut butter can provide a thicker, richer consistency.

→ Is it possible to adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely, you can add honey or maple syrup to taste or omit it for a more natural flavor.

→ Can I substitute peanut butter for allergies?

Yes, almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or other nut-free alternatives can be used as substitutes.

→ What tools are needed for preparation?

A blender, measuring cups and spoons, plus a knife and cutting board for slicing the banana are all that's required.