Indulge in a smoothie that feels like dessert but fuels your body with nourishing goodness.
This Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying breakfast or post-workout treat.
Quick to blend, rich in flavor, and naturally sweetened, it’s a wholesome choice for anyone seeking a decadent yet healthy drink.
Peanut Butter Cup Smoothie
Equipment
- 1 High-Speed Blender
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 2 glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen bananas about 2 medium bananas
- 2 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 scoop protein powder plant-based or whey
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed or hemp hearts optional
- 1 handful ice cubes
- ½ cup milk of choice soy, almond, dairy, coconut, etc.
- 2 dark chocolate peanut butter cups roughly chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Before starting, gather all your ingredients and tools to ensure a smooth process. Peel and slice bananas if they aren’t already frozen. Measure peanut butter, cocoa powder, protein powder, flaxseed or hemp hearts, and milk according to the ingredient list. Having everything ready will make blending efficient and stress-free.
- Load Blender with Base Ingredients: Place the frozen banana slices into a high-speed blender. Frozen bananas create a rich and creamy texture without watering down the smoothie. Add peanut butter for creaminess and healthy fats, followed by cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor. This forms the rich base of your smoothie.
- Add Protein and Nutritional Boosts: Add the protein powder to make the smoothie filling and nourishing — perfect for breakfast or post-workout recovery. Include ground flaxseed or hemp hearts for extra omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. These additions enhance both taste and nutritional value without compromising texture.
- Add Ice and Liquid: Add a handful of ice cubes to chill and thicken the smoothie. Pour in your milk of choice slowly, starting with half the amount. This allows you to control the consistency. Add more milk later if you prefer a thinner drink. Plant-based milks keep it vegan-friendly, while dairy milk adds creaminess and protein.
- Blend Smoothie: Secure the blender lid firmly and start blending on low speed for 15–20 seconds to combine ingredients gently. Gradually increase to high speed until the mixture becomes smooth, thick, and evenly blended. You’re aiming for a creamy texture without large chunks.
- Add Peanut Butter Cups: Roughly chop two dark chocolate peanut butter cups. Add them to the blended mixture and blend briefly on low speed. This incorporates delightful swirls and small chunks, giving bursts of chocolate and peanut butter flavor without completely blending them away.
- Taste and Adjust Flavor: Taste the smoothie to check sweetness and texture. Add extra cocoa powder for richer chocolate flavor or a splash of milk for a thinner consistency. If desired, add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. Blend briefly if adjustments are made.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the smoothie evenly into two glasses. For an aesthetic touch, sprinkle cocoa powder, cacao nibs, or grated dark chocolate on top. Enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture. Take small sips to savor the decadent peanut butter cup flavor.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftover smoothie, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. The banana base will thicken over time — stir well or add a splash of milk and reblend before serving. Avoid freezing already blended smoothies for optimal texture.
- Clean Up Efficiently: Rinse the blender right after use to prevent residue from sticking. Wash all utensils and wipe down surfaces. Store leftover ingredients properly so they remain fresh for your next smoothie preparation.
Notes
- Use fully frozen bananas for the best creamy texture. Fresh bananas can be used, but the smoothie will be less thick.
- Adjust the amount of milk depending on your preferred consistency — more milk makes a thinner smoothie.
- Plant-based protein powder works great for a vegan version. Whey protein adds extra richness if not avoiding dairy.
- Add a touch of maple syrup or honey if you prefer a sweeter smoothie.
- The peanut butter cups can be replaced with dairy-free or sugar-free alternatives for dietary preferences.
Chef’s Secrets: How To Perfect Smoothie
The secret to a truly indulgent yet healthy smoothie lies in balancing texture and flavor.
Freezing the bananas is key — it creates a rich, creamy base that feels like a dessert.
Adding ice cubes ensures the smoothie stays cold without watering it down, while blending in the peanut butter cups at the end gives a decadent swirl instead of a uniform chocolate flavor.
Use high-quality cocoa powder for deeper taste, and experiment with different nut butters, like almond or cashew, to create unique variations.
For an extra protein boost, mix in a spoon of Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy Smoothie Every Time
This smoothie is best enjoyed fresh, served in a tall glass with a reusable straw.
For a playful twist, top it with a sprinkle of cacao nibs, a swirl of peanut butter, or a few chocolate shavings.
It pairs wonderfully with a handful of fresh berries or a slice of whole-grain toast for a balanced breakfast.
For an indulgent snack, serve alongside a small bowl of granola.
If making this smoothie for a brunch or dessert, consider adding a garnish of crushed peanuts or a drizzle of dark chocolate syrup.
Storage Tips: Keep Smoothie Fresh Longer
Smoothies are best consumed immediately for optimal texture and flavor, but leftovers can be stored.
Transfer any extra smoothie to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
The banana base may thicken over time, so stir or reblend with a little milk before serving.
Avoid freezing the prepared smoothie, as this can change its texture.
However, you can freeze leftover smoothie portions in ice cube trays — they make perfect quick additions to future smoothies or as flavorful ice cubes for a richer drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh bananas instead of frozen?
Yes, but frozen bananas create a thicker and creamier texture without needing extra ice. If using fresh bananas, add extra ice cubes or chill the smoothie before serving.
2. Can I substitute peanut butter cups?
Absolutely. You can use dairy-free, sugar-free, or homemade peanut butter cups. For a healthier alternative, try adding dark chocolate chunks or cacao nibs.
3. What type of protein powder works best?
Plant-based protein powders like pea or hemp work well for a vegan version, while whey protein gives extra richness. Choose an unflavored or chocolate-flavored powder for a smoother taste.
4. How can I make this smoothie sweeter without sugar?
Add a splash of maple syrup, honey, or medjool dates. Frozen ripe bananas already add natural sweetness, so taste before adding extra sweeteners.
5. Can this recipe be made nut-free?
Yes, substitute sunflower seed butter or soy-based protein powder for a nut-free version. Ensure any peanut butter cups or chocolate pieces used are also nut-free.
