There’s something deeply satisfying about starting the day with a bowl that’s both nourishing and indulgent. This Chocolate Banana Smoothie Bowl is creamy, rich in flavor, and naturally sweet—thanks to ripe bananas and a hint of cocoa. It’s become a breakfast favorite in our home, loved by both kids and adults. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a slow morning, this bowl strikes the perfect balance between health and taste.
🥣 Ingredients
You’ll only need a handful of wholesome ingredients to make this smoothie bowl:
- 2 ripe bananas, frozen
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (or other nut/seed butter)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- A pinch of salt
Toppings (customizable):
- Sliced banana
- Granola
- Chia seeds
- Shredded coconut
- Dark chocolate chips
👩🍳 Instructions
- Freeze the bananas: Slice ripe bananas and freeze them for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Blend the base: In a high-speed blender, combine frozen bananas, almond milk, cocoa powder, peanut butter, sweetener (if using), and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired texture.
- Assemble: Pour the smoothie into a bowl and smooth the surface.
- Add toppings: Decorate with your favorite toppings for added flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy it fresh for the best taste and consistency.
🧾 Nutrition Facts
This recipe makes two servings, each providing around 300 calories, depending on toppings. It’s a nutrient-rich option loaded with fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein—ideal for breakfast or post-workout fuel.
⏱️ Preparation Time
With frozen bananas ready, this smoothie bowl takes just 10 minutes to prepare—perfect for busy mornings when you need something quick, healthy, and satisfying.
🍽️ How to Serve
Presentation adds to the fun! Here are some ideas:
- Top with fresh berries, nuts, or seeds
- Drizzle with nut butter for extra richness
- Garnish with shredded coconut or cacao nibs for crunch
- Keep it light and beautiful with minimal toppings for a cleaner look
💡 Tips for the Best Bowl
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor
- Keep frozen bananas on hand so you’re always ready to blend
- Add-ins: A dash of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract adds depth
- Taste first—bananas are sweet enough on their own for many people
- Customize toppings to match your dietary needs or preferences
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Just use plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
Q: No cocoa powder?
You can use melted dark chocolate or chocolate protein powder instead.
Q: How do I make it thicker?
Use less liquid and ensure your bananas are fully frozen. A few ice cubes can also help.
Q: Can I prep it ahead of time?
You can blend the base in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours—add toppings right before serving.
Q: Nut-free option?
Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or skip the nut butter entirely.
