Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

My college roommate used to make these at 2 AM during exam week, the blender humming while the rest of the dorm slept. She swore the chocolate peanut butter combo was the only thing getting her through chemistry finals. Now I make them whenever I need something that feels like dessert but actually fuels me through a chaotic morning.

Last summer my niece discovered she could make these herself and suddenly became the family smoothie expert. She started experimenting with toppings and presentations, turning a simple drink into something worth posting on Instagram. Now she requests them every time she sleeps over.

Ingredients

• 1 large ripe banana: Use a spotted one for natural sweetness and creaminess, or freeze it beforehand for that thick milkshake texture
• 1 cup milk of your choice: Oat milk makes it extra creamy while almond keeps it lighter, but regular milk works beautifully too
• 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter: Room temperature peanut butter blends better and prevents those frustrating clumps at the bottom
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder: Dutch processed cocoa gives a smoother chocolate flavor without any bitterness
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup: Start with less and add more gradually, as the banana and cocoa provide plenty of flavor depth
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: This tiny amount somehow makes all the other flavors pop and taste more cohesive
• 1/2 cup ice cubes: Skip these if you use a frozen banana, otherwise they keep everything properly chilled and frothy

Instructions

Prep your base:

Toss in the sliced banana, pour in your milk choice, and scoop in the peanut butter.

Add the chocolate:

Sprinkle in the cocoa powder and sweetener if you are using any, along with the vanilla.

Blend it up:

Start on low speed to break everything down, then crank it to high for at least 30 seconds.

Check your consistency:

Give it a quick taste and throw in those ice cubes now if you want it thicker and colder.

Final whirl:

Blend one last time until completely smooth, pour into two glasses, and drink immediately.

Pin Recipe

This smoothie became my go to during a particularly demanding month at work when cooking actual meals felt impossible. My coworker noticed me making them in the office kitchen and now we have a 3 PM smoothie club that keeps us sane through deadline season.

Making It Your Own

The base recipe is perfect on its own, but once you get comfortable, try swapping almond butter or cashew butter for the peanut butter. Each nut butter brings its own subtle personality and changes the overall flavor profile in interesting ways.

Protein Boosts

Sometimes I add a scoop of protein powder to turn this into a proper post workout recovery drink. Vanilla protein powder complements the chocolate without overwhelming it, while chocolate protein powder makes it even more decadent and rich.

Presentation Ideas

Take a moment to drizzle some melted peanut butter down the inside of the glass before pouring. Top with a few banana slices, a dusting of cocoa powder, or even some chocolate shavings if you are feeling fancy.

• Sprinkle sea salt on top to bring out the chocolate notes
• Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for extra protein and tang
• Try a pinch of cinnamon for unexpected warmth

Pin Recipe

There is something deeply satisfying about a breakfast that feels like a treat but still leaves you feeling nourished and ready to face whatever the day throws at you.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a quick stir or shake before drinking. Add a few ice cubes when serving if it has thinned.

→ How can I make this smoothie thicker?

Use a frozen banana instead of fresh for an instantly thicker consistency. You can also add more ice cubes, a tablespoon of Greek yogurt, or a spoonful of chia seeds. Oats or avocado also work beautifully for creating extra creaminess.

→ What milk works best in this blend?

Dairy milk creates the creamiest results, but oat milk and almond milk both work wonderfully. Coconut milk adds richness and tropical notes, while soy milk provides extra protein. Choose based on your taste preferences and dietary needs.

→ Is this suitable for a post-workout drink?

Absolutely. The combination of carbohydrates from the banana, protein from the peanut butter, and healthy fats makes it an excellent recovery option. For additional protein, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to boost it to 15-20 grams per serving.

→ Can I reduce the sugar content?

The natural sweetness from a ripe banana often makes added sweetener unnecessary. Omit the honey or maple syrup entirely, or use just a teaspoon. The cocoa powder is unsweetened, so you control the sweetness level completely.

→ What nut butter alternatives can I use?

Almond butter creates a lighter, slightly sweeter flavor profile. Cashew butter offers exceptional creaminess. For nut-free options, sunflower seed butter works well, though it may add a slight earthy taste. Each alternative brings its own unique character.