Banana Smoothie
Start your day with a banana smoothie (or treat yourself later!) for a boost of vitamins, minerals and cheerful banana flavor.
These creamy, sweet, and nutritious treats have long been a classic, starting back in the mid 20th century when blenders first became common household appliances. (I am sure some version of them existed before blenders or the word “smoothie.”)
Back to blenders and the ‘50s, these devices made it easy for people to experiment with different ingredients and create creamy concoctions. Soda shops and banana splits were all the rage, so it stands to reason the banana smoothies we know today became popular then.
Unlike banana splits, the much more pared-down and more nutritious banana smoothies became synonymous with health-conscious eating trends over the next few decades.
Healthy smoothies with a banana base are a staple today. You can customize them with various ingredients, such as berries, nuts, or even leafy greens, to suit your preferences and dietary needs. While not having an overpowering flavor when you eat them individually, bananas create a creamy base that retains its taste while complementing or balancing the flavors of others. This makes them great for disguising a dash of protein powder, too.
Strawberry banana smoothie or peanut butter banana smoothie, anyone?
What to serve with a banana smoothie
Banana smoothies can be enjoyed as a quick breakfast, a post-workout recovery drink, or a refreshing treat on a warm day.
While they usually hit the spot as a snack all by themselves, banana smoothies make an excellent addition to meals and snacks. For breakfast, pair your smoothie with a bowl of oatmeal or granola for a fiber-packed start to your day.
At lunch, you might enjoy a smoothie alongside a veggie wrap or substantial Cobb salad for a more fully balanced meal.
When you need an afternoon pick-me-up, a banana smoothie can give you that much-needed energy boost with added nutrition. Pair it with a handful of trail mix, a few slices of turkey or cheese, or a piece of whole-grain toast for added sustenance.
Ingredients needed to make this banana smoothie recipe
Here are the items you’ll need to make my version of a banana smoothie, plus a bit about what each ingredient adds to the blend.
- Frozen Bananas: Frozen bananas provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture while being rich in potassium and other nutrients. I start with frozen bananas versus fresh bananas to immediately add the cold consistency without watering down the smoothie with ice.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds a tangy flavor, creaminess, and additional protein. If you do not want that tang, it can be substituted with vanilla yogurt or with dairy-free alternatives like almond or soy yogurt.
- Milk: Contributes to the smoothie’s creamy consistency and offers calcium and protein. If you are sensitive to dairy, any type of milk—cashew milk, coconut milk, soy milk, almond milk. All work well in this recipe.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and aroma of the smoothie.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweetens the smoothie naturally while adding a touch of floral or caramel-like notes. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Frequently asked questions about making banana smoothies
Below are some common questions and answers about making banana smoothies. If you have a question I have not covered, drop it in the comments. I will reply as soon as I can.
Can I use fresh bananas instead of frozen?
Fresh banana slices can be used, but frozen bananas provide a thicker texture and colder temperature without diluting the flavor. If using fresh bananas, add a few ice cubes for a chilled smoothie.
Can I make this smoothie vegan?
You can easily make this a vegan banana smoothie. Just use a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as soy or coconut yogurt, and choose a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. No honey; go with the maple syrup option instead.
How can I adjust the sweetness?
You can add more or less sweetener in this recipe (the honey or maple syrup) depending on your tastes. You can also substitute the sweetener with dates or a sugar substitute like stevia.
Can I add other fruits or ingredients?
Feel free to experiment with different fruits, nuts, and berries to create your own unique flavor combinations. Add leafy greens like spinach for an instant green smoothie. Other popular additions to a banana smoothie include berries, mango, chia seeds, ground flax seeds and nut butter, such as almond butter and cashew butter.
How long will the banana smoothie keep in the fridge?
A refrigerated banana smoothie can last up to one or two days and longer in the freezer, but it’s best enjoyed immediately after you make it for taste, texture and nutrients.
More Grandma-Approved Recipes
If you enjoyed this recipe for a banana smoothie, then check out these other delicious breakfast dishes to round out a morning meal:
- Bisquick Sausage Balls Recipe With Cheese (3 Ingredients)
- Bacon and Cheese Quiche With Spinach
- Overnight Breakfast Casserole With Sausage
- Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
- Pumpkin Waffles Recipe
Banana Smoothie
Equipment
- Blender
Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced frozen bananas about 3 large bananas
- ½ cup plain or vanilla greek yogurt
- ½ cup milk any kind
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 Tablespoon honey or maple syrup more more if desired
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a blender until smooth. If too thin, add more frozen banana or ice. If too thick, add more milk until the desired consistency.
- Pour into a glass. Enjoy!
Notes
- For some yummy mix-ins, try a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter, cocoa powder or a handful of frozen strawberries.
