Name: Chocolate Banana Dream Smoothie Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ripe bananas, frozen; 1 cup unsweetened almond milk; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon almond butter; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup granola (nut-free if needed); 1/4 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries); 1 teaspoon chia seeds; 1 tablespoon shredded coconut

Indulge in the Chocolate Banana Dream Smoothie Bowl, a creamy, nutrient-packed breakfast that blends rich cocoa with sweet bananas. This vibrant bowl is topped with crunchy granola, fresh berries, and chia seeds, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures to kickstart your day with energy and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Banana Dream Smoothie Bowl is a breakfast game-changer, combining decadent chocolatey goodness with wholesome ingredients. It’s quick to whip up, taking just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings. The creamy blend of bananas and almond milk delivers a velvety texture, while the cocoa adds a rich, indulgent flavor without the guilt. Packed with nutrients like potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, it’s as nourishing as it is delicious. The customizable toppings let you get creative, ensuring every bowl feels like a treat tailored to your taste. Whether you’re a smoothie enthusiast or new to smoothie bowls, this recipe’s simplicity and versatility will make it a morning staple.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Freeze Bananas for Creaminess: Use frozen bananas for a thicker, ice-cream-like texture without needing ice.
Blend in Stages: Blend liquids and soft ingredients first, then add powders like cocoa to avoid clumping.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste the smoothie base before pouring; add more honey or maple syrup if needed.
Topping Balance: Combine crunchy (granola, nuts) and soft (berries, banana slices) toppings for textural contrast.
Chill Your Bowl: Place your serving bowl in the fridge while prepping to keep the smoothie cold.
Use a High-Powered Blender: This ensures a smooth, lump-free consistency, especially with frozen ingredients.
Layer Toppings Artfully: Arrange toppings in rows or patterns for an Instagram-worthy presentation.
Prep Ahead: Slice and freeze bananas in advance for quicker morning prep.

Yield: Serves 2

Chocolate Banana Dream Smoothie Bowl

Creamy chocolate-banana smoothie bowl topped with granola, berries, and chia seeds—perfect for a quick, nutritious breakfast.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 15 minutes

Ingredients

2 ripe bananas, frozen
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon almond butter
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup granola (nut-free if needed)
1/4 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
1 teaspoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon shredded coconut

Instructions

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by collecting all ingredients to streamline your prep process. Having everything ready makes this smoothie bowl a breeze to whip up!
Freeze Bananas in Advance: Peel and slice bananas, then freeze them overnight for a thick, creamy texture that’s oh-so-dreamy.
Blend the Liquids: In a high-powered blender, pour in 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk and 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt. Blend briefly to combine.
Add Soft Ingredients: Toss in the frozen bananas, 1 tablespoon of almond butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
Incorporate Cocoa and Sweetener: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup (if using). Blend until velvety.
Check Consistency: Pause to check the smoothie’s thickness. Add a splash of almond milk if it’s too thick, blending briefly to adjust.
Pour into Bowls: Divide the smoothie mixture evenly between two chilled bowls for a refreshing, cool base that’s ready to shine.
Add Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granola over each bowl for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy base.
Top with Freshness: Arrange fresh berries, 1/2 teaspoon of chia seeds, and a pinch of shredded coconut on each bowl for vibrant flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Grab a spoon and dig into your Chocolate Banana Dream Smoothie Bowl, savoring every delicious, nutrient-packed bite!

Notes

For a nut-free version, swap almond milk for oat milk and use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter.
Adjust sweetness by tasting the smoothie base before pouring; ripe bananas may reduce the need for added sweeteners.
Use a chilled bowl to keep the smoothie thick and refreshing, especially on warm mornings.
For a protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder during blending.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per ServingCalories 393Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 9gCholesterol 3mgSodium 129mgCarbohydrates 62gFiber 8gSugar 37gProtein 13g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

The star of this smoothie bowl is ripe bananas, which provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture, especially when frozen. Unsweetened cocoa powder delivers rich chocolate flavor without added sugar, so opt for high-quality brands for the best taste. Almond milk keeps it dairy-free and light, but choose unsweetened to control sweetness. Greek yogurt adds protein and tang, making the bowl more filling. Honey or maple syrup offers a natural sweetener option—honey brings floral notes, while maple syrup adds a caramel-like depth. Toppings like granola, fresh berries, chia seeds, and shredded coconut enhance crunch and nutrition. For nut allergies, swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter, and ensure granola is nut-free.

Variations and Substitutions

This smoothie bowl is endlessly adaptable to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences. Swap almond milk for oat, soy, or coconut milk for different flavor profiles. For a vegan version, use plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. If cocoa powder feels too intense, try cacao powder for a milder, nutrient-rich alternative. Add a scoop of protein powder (vanilla or chocolate) for an extra protein boost. Swap honey for agave nectar or skip sweeteners entirely if bananas are ripe enough. For toppings, experiment with sliced almonds, cacao nibs, or hemp seeds for added crunch. If berries aren’t in season, try dried fruit like raisins or cranberries. For a tropical twist, add mango or pineapple chunks as toppings.

Storage Options

Store the smoothie base (without toppings) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before serving, as separation may occur. Freezing the base is possible for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge and blend briefly to restore texture. Toppings like granola and fresh fruit should be added just before serving to maintain freshness and crunch. If prepping toppings, store dry ingredients like chia seeds or coconut in a cool, dry place, and refrigerate fresh berries to extend shelf life.