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Chocolate Banana Dessert Smoothie - Rich, Creamy, and Easy

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large frozen banana (sliced before freezing for easier blending)
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy)
  • 1–1.5 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (optional, based on sweetness of your banana)
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter (for richness; optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for a dessert-like finish)
  • Pinch of salt (tiny pinch to enhance chocolate flavor)
  • Ice cubes (2–4, optional for extra thickness)
  • Optional add-ins: 1 tablespoon chocolate chips, 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder, a pinch of cinnamon, or 1 tablespoon oats for extra body
  • Optional toppings: Shaved chocolate, cacao nibs, whipped cream, or sliced banana

Method
 

  1. Prep your banana: If you haven’t already, slice a ripe banana and freeze it in a single layer. Frozen banana is key to a creamy, ice-cream-like texture.
  2. Add liquids first: Pour the milk into the blender. Starting with liquid helps the blades catch the solids and blend smoothly.
  3. Add the flavor base: Add the frozen banana, cocoa powder, nut butter, vanilla, and a tiny pinch of salt. If your banana isn’t very sweet, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey.
  4. Boost it (optional): Add protein powder, oats, or cinnamon if you like. For a thicker, frostier smoothie, toss in 2–4 ice cubes.
  5. Blend until silky: Start on low, then increase to high for about 30–45 seconds. You’re looking for a smooth, creamy texture with no banana chunks or cocoa streaks.
  6. Taste and adjust: If it needs more sweetness, add a little more maple syrup. If it’s too thick, splash in more milk. If you want deeper chocolate flavor, add another half tablespoon of cocoa.
  7. Serve and finish: Pour into a chilled glass. Top with a swirl of whipped cream, shaved chocolate, or a sprinkle of cacao nibs for crunch if you want that dessert vibe.