Save The morning was one of those gray, rainy Tuesdays when breakfast needed to be more than just fuel, it needed to be therapy. My blender had been sitting neglected on the counter for weeks, gathering dust alongside good intentions about healthier mornings. Something about the combination of chocolate, banana, and peanut butter felt like the right kind of comfort. The smoothie bowl came together in minutes, thick enough to hold a spoon standing straight up.
My roommate wandered into the kitchen, drawn by the sound of the blender and the unmistakable smell of cocoa. She watched me arrange the toppings like I was plating something fancy instead of breakfast. We ended up sitting on the floor, eating in comfortable silence while rain tapped against the window, both agreeing this needed to happen more often.
Ingredients
- 2 medium bananas, peeled, sliced, and frozen: Frozen bananas are the secret to that thick, creamy consistency, so slice them before freezing for easier blending
- 1/4 cup peanut butter powder or 2 tablespoons peanut butter: Powder gives you all the peanut flavor without making the base too heavy or oily
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla makes the chocolate taste deeper and more pronounced
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder: Dutch process cocoa gives the smoothest, richest chocolate flavor
- 2–3 tablespoons coconut water: Start with less and add only if needed to get things moving
- 1 banana, peeled and sliced: Fresh banana adds texture variation and that classic banana split vibe
- 1/2 cup maple cinnamon granola: The crunch factor is non negotiable here, and cinnamon plays so well with chocolate
- 2 teaspoons cacao nibs: These add little pockets of bitter chocolate intensity
- 2 teaspoons hemp seeds: A subtle nuttiness plus a protein boost that barely registers in flavor
- 2 teaspoons mini chocolate chips: Optional but honestly, why would you skip them
Instructions
- Blend your base:
- Combine frozen bananas, peanut butter powder or peanut butter, vanilla, cocoa powder, and coconut water in your blender. Start on low speed and use that tamper if you have one, or pause and scrape down the sides often. You want it smooth and thick, like soft serve ice cream.
- Divide into bowls:
- Split that creamy chocolate mixture between two bowls, making sure each gets an equal share of the good stuff.
- Add your toppings:
- Arrange sliced banana, granola, cacao nibs, hemp seeds, and chocolate chips on top. Take your time here, the presentation is half the joy.
- Serve immediately:
- These bowls melt faster than you expect, so dig in right away while the texture is still perfect.
Save Now this is my go to when friends sleep over because it looks impressive but takes less time than making pancakes. Theres something about eating breakfast from a bowl with a spoon that feels more intentional, more satisfying than drinking something through a straw.
Make It Yours
Almond butter or cashew butter work beautifully if peanuts are not your thing. The flavor shifts slightly but that chocolate banana combination is forgiving, and the texture remains just as dreamy.
Texture Secrets
Sometimes I throw in a handful of spinach because the chocolate hides it completely. My spinach hating partner still has no idea, and I am not planning to tell him anytime soon.
Timing Matters
These bowls wait for no one. The longer they sit, the more they melt into soup. Have your toppings ready before you start blending.
- Pre slice your fresh banana while the blender runs
- Toast your granola for a few minutes for extra crunch
- Keep the bowls in the freezer if you get distracted between steps
Save Some mornings deserve to feel like a treat. This is one of them.
Recipe Help
- → How can I make my smoothie bowl even thicker and creamier?
For an exceptionally thick and creamy smoothie bowl, ensure your bananas are thoroughly frozen. Using a high-powered blender helps achieve a smooth consistency with minimal liquid. If needed, add just a splash of almond milk or a small amount of frozen banana for the topping, rather than more coconut water, to maintain the desired density.
- → Can I use a different nut butter in this bowl?
Absolutely! While peanut butter is classic for Chunky Monkey flavors, you can easily swap it for almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Adjust the quantity to your taste preferences, remembering that some nut butters might be thicker than others.
- → What if I don't have a high-powered blender?
If you're using a standard blender or food processor, you might need to stop more frequently to scrape down the sides. Allow the frozen bananas to thaw for just 5-10 minutes to soften slightly before blending. You may also need to add a little more coconut water, but add it gradually, just a tablespoon at a time, to avoid making the mixture too thin.
- → Can I prepare the smoothie base ahead of time?
For the best texture and freshness, it's recommended to prepare and enjoy smoothie bowls immediately. If you must prepare it ahead, you can blend the base and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to an hour. However, it will likely harden significantly, so you'll need to let it thaw slightly and possibly re-blend with a splash of liquid before serving.
- → Are there any additions to boost the nutritional value?
Definitely! Consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder (vanilla or chocolate work well), a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds for extra fiber and omega-3s, or even a handful of spinach for a dose of greens – the cocoa powder will mask the color and taste effectively.