Pin Recipe One morning, running late and starving, I threw whatever looked good into the blender. Bananas going brown, half a jar of peanut butter, some yogurt. I hit blend and crossed my fingers. What came out was so thick and creamy I almost skipped breakfast entirely just to savor it slower. Now it's my go-to when I need something fast that actually fills me up.
I started making this for my kids on school mornings when cereal stopped cutting it. They'd gulp it down on the way out the door, and I'd feel less guilty knowing they had protein and fruit in their bellies. Sometimes I'd sneak in spinach and they never noticed. It became our little secret weapon against hectic mornings.
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas: The riper, the sweeter and creamier your smoothie will be. I freeze mine when they start to brown, and they blend up even thicker.
- Milk: Any kind works here, dairy or plant-based. I've used oat, almond, and regular milk, and they all turn out great.
- Greek yogurt: This is what makes it rich and filling instead of just fruity and thin. Non-dairy yogurt works too, just pick one with some body.
- Peanut butter: Creamy blends smoother, but natural peanut butter adds a deeper, nuttier flavor. Just stir it well first.
- Honey or maple syrup: Optional, but I like a drizzle if my bananas aren't super ripe. Maple syrup keeps it vegan.
- Vanilla extract: A tiny splash makes everything taste warmer and more intentional, not just blended leftovers.
- Ice cubes: They give it that frosty, thick shake texture. Skip them if you used frozen bananas.
Instructions
- Load the blender:
- Toss in the bananas, milk, yogurt, peanut butter, honey, vanilla, and ice. I usually put the liquids in first so the blades don't get jammed.
- Blend until smooth:
- Start low, then crank it to high for about a minute. You want it velvety with no chunks of ice or banana.
- Taste and tweak:
- Give it a quick taste. If it needs more sweetness, add a little honey and pulse again.
- Serve right away:
- Pour into two glasses and enjoy immediately. It thickens as it sits, so drink it fresh for the best texture.
Pin Recipe There was a Saturday when my friend came over stressed about a deadline, and I handed her one of these without asking. She sat on the porch steps, drank it slowly, and said it was the first thing that day that didn't feel rushed. Sometimes a good smoothie is more than fuel. It's a tiny pause.
Making It Your Own
I've thrown in everything from cocoa powder to chai spice to leftover coffee. A tablespoon of cocoa turns it into dessert. A handful of spinach disappears completely. A scoop of protein powder makes it post-workout worthy. This recipe is just the foundation. Build whatever you need on top of it.
Storage and Prep
You can make this the night before and keep it in the fridge in a sealed jar. It'll separate a bit, so give it a good shake or stir before drinking. I've also poured leftovers into popsicle molds for the kids, and they loved it. Just know the texture is best fresh from the blender.
Serving Suggestions
I like mine in a tall glass with a straw, but my husband prefers it in a bowl with granola and banana slices on top, eaten with a spoon like a smoothie bowl. It's thick enough to handle toppings without getting soupy.
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of extra peanut butter for a fancy touch.
- Pair it with toast or a breakfast burrito if you need something more substantial.
- Drink it straight after a workout when you need something cold and satisfying fast.
Pin Recipe This smoothie has saved more mornings than I can count. I hope it does the same for you.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use plant-based milk and yogurt?
Yes, substituting dairy with plant-based milk and yogurt keeps it vegan while maintaining creaminess.
- → How can I adjust the sweetness?
Add honey or maple syrup to taste, blending thoroughly to combine with the creamy base.
- → Is it possible to add other flavors?
Yes, a tablespoon of cocoa powder creates a chocolatey twist, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- → How long can this shake be stored?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving to restore smoothness.
- → What tools are needed for preparation?
A blender, measuring cups, spoon, and cutting board are essential for quick and easy preparation.
- → Is this suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if using substitutions.