Chocolate peanut butter banana smoothie

Ingredients

• 1banana
• 240 ml (1 cup)milk
• 2 tablespoonspeanut butter
• 5 smalldates (or 2 tablespoons maple syrup)
• 1 tablespooncocoa powder, preferably Dutch-processed
• 1 teaspoonvanilla extract

Instructions

1. 1

   Measure ingredients

   Measure out all the ingredients.

2. 2

   Load the blender

   Put all the ingredients into the blender jug.

3. 3

   Blend until smooth

   Blend thoroughly for 2–3 minutes, until smooth and creamy. If using dates, check the recipe notes for guidance.

4. 4

   Serve the smoothie

   Pour and enjoy.

What is a chocolate peanut butter banana smoothie?

It is an American-style blended drink made with banana, milk and peanut butter, with cocoa supplying the chocolate flavour. This version uses cocoa rather than chocolate, so the flavour comes from a simple pantry ingredient.

Banana gives the drink body, while peanut butter adds richness. Dates or maple syrup provide optional sweetness.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 556 calories, 0g protein, 0g carbs, 0g fat.

Banana and dates or maple syrup provide most of the carbohydrates, while peanut butter contributes much of the fat and some protein; milk also contributes protein and fat, depending on the type used. Pair the smoothie with a fibre-rich option such as porridge or wholemeal toast for a more balanced breakfast.

Choosing the ingredients

Banana: A ripe banana blends readily and brings natural sweetness. For a colder, thicker drink, use a frozen banana if your blender can handle it.

Cocoa: Dutch-processed cocoa is suggested for its smooth, mellow flavour, though other unsweetened cocoa powder also works.

Sweetener: Dates make the smoothie slightly more substantial; maple syrup blends in quickly. The banana's ripeness can affect how much extra sweetness you want.

Getting a smooth blend

Dates: Remove any stones before blending. If your blender struggles with them, soak the dates in warm water until soft, then drain them before adding.

Blending: The method allows 2–3 minutes of blending. Stop once the mixture looks even and creamy, and scrape down the sides if ingredients cling to the jug.

Adjusting the texture

For a thicker smoothie, use a frozen banana or blend in a little less milk to start. Add more milk gradually if the mixture is too thick to pour.

For a thinner drink, blend in a splash of milk at a time. Blend briefly after each addition so the texture stays consistent.

Serving ideas

Serve straight after blending, while the smoothie is cool and creamy. It can work as a quick breakfast or a snack on its own.

For a more complete breakfast, have it alongside toast or porridge. Keep toppings simple if you want the drink's cocoa, banana and peanut butter flavours to stand out.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use a ripe banana for a sweeter, easier-to-blend smoothie.
• Remove the stones from the dates before adding them to the blender.
• If your dates are firm, soak them in warm water and drain them before blending.
• Start with cold milk or a frozen banana if you prefer a chilled drink.
• Add extra milk gradually if the smoothie is thicker than you like.

Variations

• Use maple syrup: Swap the dates for 2 tablespoons of maple syrup for a smoother blend.
• Choose another milk: Use dairy or plant-based milk according to your preference.
• Add a pinch of salt: A small pinch can bring out the peanut butter and cocoa flavours.
• Make it colder: Use a frozen banana and blend until creamy.
• Boost the cocoa: Add a little more cocoa powder for a more pronounced chocolate taste.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Leaving date stones in: Remove them first so they do not end up in the drink.
• Using firm dates: Soak them in warm water and drain them before blending.
• Adding too much milk at once: Start with the listed amount and add more only if needed.
• Stopping too soon: Blend for the stated 2–3 minutes, until the mixture looks smooth and creamy.
• Using an overfilled blender: Check the jug's capacity and blend in batches if needed.

How to store

This smoothie is best enjoyed straight after blending. If needed, cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, then shake or reblend before serving; it may separate as it stands.

Frequently asked questions