Nutty Chocolate Banana Smoothie

Name: Nutty Chocolate Banana Smoothie
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, preferably frozen; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons almond butter (or any nut butter of choice); 1 cup almond milk (or any dairy/non-dairy milk); 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); A pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes

I love starting my day with a delicious and nutritious Nutty Chocolate Banana Smoothie. This recipe perfectly blends ripe bananas with rich cocoa and nut butter, creating a drink that's both satisfying and energizing. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a creamy smoothie that feels like a treat while providing essential nutrients. It’s a fantastic way to kick off the morning or recharge after a workout, and my whole family enjoys it too!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T16:38:28.354Z

When I first experimented with this Nutty Chocolate Banana Smoothie, I was amazed by how quickly it came together and how delicious it was! The combination of bananas and cocoa offers a delightful flavor that satisfies my chocolate cravings while still being healthy. I also added almond butter for some healthy fats, and it turns the smoothie into a creamy delight that fills me up.

One tip I learned throughout my smoothie-making journey is to always use frozen bananas, as they create a thicker and creamier texture. I've tried both fresh and frozen bananas, and the frozen ones always win for that rich milkshake-like mouthfeel. Plus, if a banana is getting overripe, it’s a great way to avoid waste!

        Why You Will Love This Smoothie
        Rich chocolate flavor balanced with creamy nutty goodness
Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy mornings
Packed with nutrients to fuel your day

      

Ingredients Matter

The key to achieving a beautifully creamy texture in the Nutty Chocolate Banana Smoothie lies in the quality of your bananas. Ripe, preferably frozen bananas contribute both sweetness and creaminess, making your smoothie velvety without the need for additional sugar. If you don't have frozen bananas, you can freeze sliced bananas overnight or add a few ice cubes to the blender. Just keep an eye on the consistency; too much ice can dilute the rich flavors.

Cocoa powder is another essential ingredient in this recipe. Opt for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for the best flavor impact. Not only does it provide a rich chocolatey taste, but it is also packed with antioxidants that enhance the nutritional profile of your smoothie. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using dark chocolate cocoa powder for a deeper flavor or even raw cacao powder for an earthy twist.

Blending Techniques

When it comes to blending, start at a low speed and gradually increase to high. This technique ensures that all ingredients are well-integrated and avoids potential splattering. After blending for about 30-45 seconds, a visual cue to look for is a smooth and glossy mixture. If there are still chunky bits, continue blending until it's completely homogeneous.

If your smoothie turns out too thick for your liking, don’t stress—adding more almond milk gradually is a simple fix. I recommend starting with a tablespoon at a time, blending in between, to achieve that perfect sippable consistency. This flexibility allows you to customize the smoothie based on your preference or the ripeness of your bananas.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Nutty Chocolate Banana Smoothie is versatile and can be dressed up in numerous ways! For an extra crunch, top your smoothie with chopped nuts, chia seeds, or a sprinkle of granola. These toppings not only enhance the visual appeal but also add texture and additional nutrients, making your smoothie a satisfying meal in its own right.

Consider experimenting with different nut butters or even incorporating a scoop of protein powder if you’re looking for an extra boost post-workout. Sunflower seed butter works great for those avoiding nuts, while a dash of cinnamon can bring warmth and depth to the flavors. Each variation offers a unique twist while still keeping the essence of this delightful smoothie intact.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Nutty Chocolate Banana Smoothie:

Smoothie Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, preferably frozen
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons almond butter (or any nut butter of choice)
1 cup almond milk (or any dairy/non-dairy milk)
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
A pinch of salt

Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your smoothie:

Combine Ingredients

In a blender, combine the frozen bananas, cocoa powder, almond butter, almond milk, honey or maple syrup (if using), and a pinch of salt.

Blend Smoothly

Blend on high speed until all ingredients are smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more almond milk to reach your desired consistency.

Serve and Enjoy

Pour the smoothie into glasses and enjoy immediately. Optionally, top with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra flavor.

This smoothie is best enjoyed fresh!

Pro Tips

For extra protein, consider adding a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt. You can also swap the almond butter for peanut or sunbutter depending on your preference.

Storage Tips

If you're making a batch of Nutty Chocolate Banana Smoothies for later, you can store leftover smoothie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, keep in mind that the texture may change a bit as it sits. To revive the smoothie, simply give it a quick stir or re-blend it with a splash of almond milk to get it back to that creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in ice cube trays. Once frozen, you can transfer the smoothie cubes to a freezer bag, allowing for easy access whenever you need a quick nutritive boost. When you're ready to enjoy, simply blend a few cubes with some almond milk for a refreshing treat.

Common Issues and Fixes

If your smoothie turns out too bitter, check the amount of cocoa powder you used, as some brands can have a stronger flavor. A quick remedy is to add a little more honey or maple syrup to balance the bitterness. Adjusting the sweetness to your preference can create a more enjoyable flavor profile.

Another issue you might encounter is a smoothie that’s too runny. This can happen with oversaturation of almond milk or if you use fresh bananas instead of frozen ones. In this case, you can thicken your smoothie by adding a scoop of oats or a few tablespoons of nut butter, which will enhance the flavor while improving the texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh bananas instead of frozen?

Yes, but frozen bananas create a creamier texture. If using fresh, consider adding ice to achieve a similar thickness.

→ Is it possible to make this smoothie in advance?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a good shake before drinking.

→ What can I use instead of almond milk?

You can substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice, including cow's milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a similar taste.

→ Can I add greens to this smoothie?

Absolutely! Adding a handful of spinach or kale can boost the nutrition without altering the taste significantly.