Banana Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie Recipe
As someone who believes that breakfast should taste like a nostalgic dessert indulgence, this chocolate-covered strawberry banana smoothie has become my go-to morning delight—it’s basically a love letter to my taste buds in a glass.
The ingredients that I have chosen for this morning’s smoothie are perfect for crafting a delicious start to the day. A perfect ripe banana, coupled with strawberries and rich cocoa powder, makes for a treat that is also a nutritional powerhouse.
I love how almond milk adds a creamy texture and how the hint of vanilla extract enhances the flavor. The optional honey delivers a near-perfect natural sweetness that seems to coax the fruits into giving even more of themselves.
Banana Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie Recipe Ingredients
- Ripe Banana: Rich in potassium and fiber, adds natural sweetness.
- Strawberries: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, provides a fresh, fruity taste.
- Cocoa Powder: Source of flavonoids; adds a rich, chocolatey flavor.
- Milk/Almond Milk: Offers calcium and vitamin D; makes it creamy.
- Honey/Maple Syrup: Adds a touch of natural sweetness, if desired.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor with aromatic sweetness.
Banana Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 cup milk or dairy-free alternative (such as almond milk)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ice cubes (optional, for a thicker smoothie)
How to Make this Banana Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie Recipe
1. Remove the skin from the banana that is ready for use, and slice the fruit into somewhat thinner pieces so that it blends more easily.
2. If using fresh strawberries, wash them thoroughly. Remove the stems and cut them in half, if you wish.
3. Place the slices of banana and the strawberries into a blender.
4. Add the milk or a non-dairy equivalent.
5. Transfer the unsweetened cocoa powder to the blender.
6. To make your smoothie sweeter, use honey or maple syrup.
7. For flavor enhancement, add the vanilla extract.
8. For a frostier, thicker smoothie, add the ice cubes.
9. Blend at top speed until the mix is smooth and creamy.
10. Render the smoothie into goblets and serve instantaneously. Take pleasure in consuming the delectable treat!
Banana Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Knife
2. Cutting board
3. Blender
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Strainer or colander (if using fresh strawberries)
7. Glass or goblet for serving
FAQ
- Can I use frozen bananas instead of fresh ones?Certainly! A smoothie made with frozen bananas will be creamier and thicker than one made with fresh bananas.
- What non-dairy milk works best in this smoothie?Milk alternatives such as almond, coconut, and oat milk work wonderfully and can impart a barely discernible flavor to your baked goods.
- Can I skip the cocoa powder or use a substitute?Omitting the cocoa powder will give you a more fruity smoothie, and substituting carob powder will give you a different flavor.
- Is there a way to make this smoothie healthier?A handful of spinach or kale can be added for an extra nutrient boost. Their flavor is not really detectable, so they don’t alter the taste of the smoothie.
- How can I make this smoothie sweeter?Add more honey or maple syrup, or toss in a few pitted dates for natural sweetness.
- Can I prep this smoothie in advance?You can enjoy it fresh, but prepare it and chill it for as long as 24 hours, and it can still hold its own as a ‘good-to-go’ salad. If you do take it to-you or serve it to guest(s) after a day in the fridge, just give it a serious shake and/or mix to redistribute all the components before serving.
- What is a good topping for this smoothie?Add a few slices of strawberry, banana, or a sprinkle of granola or chia seeds on top for an added texture and flavor boost.
Banana Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie Recipe Substitutions and Variations
Substitute frozen bananas for fresh in a smoothie when thickness is desired.
Swap out raspberries or blueberries for strawberries to get a different berry flavor in your dish.
For a dairy-free option, choose soy milk or oat milk instead of almond milk.
Cocoa powder can be replaced with carob powder for an option that is free of caffeine.
Agave syrup or stevia can replace honey or maple syrup as different sweeteners.
Pro Tips
1. For an extra creamy texture, freeze the banana slices before blending. This will also help thicken the smoothie without the need for ice cubes.
2. To enhance the chocolate flavor, consider adding a small pinch of salt. It can bring out the richness of the cocoa powder.
3. If you’re looking to boost the nutritional value, try adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or a scoop of your favorite protein powder before blending.
4. For a more complex flavor profile, add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the mix.
5. If you’d like to make your smoothie even colder and extra refreshing, use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones.
Banana Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie Recipe
My favorite Banana Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Knife
2. Cutting board
3. Blender
4. Measuring cups
5. Measuring spoons
6. Strainer or colander (if using fresh strawberries)
7. Glass or goblet for serving
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 cup milk or dairy-free alternative (such as almond milk)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ice cubes (optional, for a thicker smoothie)
Instructions:
1. Remove the skin from the banana that is ready for use, and slice the fruit into somewhat thinner pieces so that it blends more easily.
2. If using fresh strawberries, wash them thoroughly. Remove the stems and cut them in half, if you wish.
3. Place the slices of banana and the strawberries into a blender.
4. Add the milk or a non-dairy equivalent.
5. Transfer the unsweetened cocoa powder to the blender.
6. To make your smoothie sweeter, use honey or maple syrup.
7. For flavor enhancement, add the vanilla extract.
8. For a frostier, thicker smoothie, add the ice cubes.
9. Blend at top speed until the mix is smooth and creamy.
10. Render the smoothie into goblets and serve instantaneously. Take pleasure in consuming the delectable treat!