Chocolate Banana Smoothie Milk

I started making this smoothie on mornings when I needed something fast but didn't want to settle for bland. The first sip always surprises people—they expect overly sweet, but the cocoa and banana balance each other in a way that feels more like a treat than breakfast. It's become my go-to when I want energy without the crash. Some mornings, I drink it straight from the blender and pretend I'm being efficient.

I made this for my sister once when she was rushing out the door, and she texted me an hour later asking for the recipe. She'd assumed I'd used protein powder or some secret ingredient, but it was just bananas and cocoa doing their thing. Now she makes it for her kids before school, and they think they're getting away with chocolate milk. It's one of those recipes that feels like a small win every time.

Ingredients

• Ripe bananas: The riper, the better—brown spots mean natural sweetness and a creamier blend.
• Milk: Dairy makes it rich, but oat or almond milk works beautifully if you want it lighter or vegan.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: This is what gives it depth without turning it into a sugar bomb, use the good stuff if you have it.
• Honey or maple syrup: Start with one tablespoon and taste as you go, the banana might be sweet enough on its own.
• Vanilla extract: Optional, but it rounds out the flavor in a way that feels intentional.
• Ice cubes: If you want it thick and frosty, toss in a handful, or skip them for a thinner drink.

Instructions

Combine the base:

Drop the bananas, milk, cocoa powder, and sweetener into your blender. If you're using frozen bananas, let them sit for a minute so your blender doesn't struggle.

Add the extras:

Toss in vanilla and ice if you're using them. These are the little things that make it feel less like a smoothie and more like something you'd order.

Blend until smooth:

Run it on high for about thirty seconds, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed. You want it velvety, no chunks of banana hiding at the bottom.

Taste and adjust:

Give it a quick taste—if it needs more sweetness or cocoa, add a little and blend again. This is your smoothie, make it yours.

Serve immediately:

Pour it into glasses and drink it right away. It's best when it's still cold and hasn't had time to separate.

Save Pin

One afternoon, I made this for a friend who swore she didn't like smoothies. She drank the whole thing without realizing it, then asked if I had more bananas. It wasn't about converting her—it was just nice to watch someone enjoy something simple without overthinking it. That's what this recipe does best.

How to Make It Thicker or Lighter

If you want it thicker, freeze your banana slices ahead of time or cut back on the milk by a quarter cup. For a lighter version, add an extra splash of milk or skip the ice entirely. I've made it both ways depending on whether I want something I can drink fast or something I need to sip slowly with a spoon.

Ways to Boost the Nutrition

A tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter turns this into a meal that actually keeps you full. You can also throw in a handful of spinach—it won't change the taste, but it'll make you feel like you're getting away with something. I've added chia seeds before, though they make the texture slightly gritty if you don't let them soak first.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This doesn't store well once blended, it separates and loses that fresh taste within an hour. If you want to prep ahead, slice and freeze your bananas in a ziplock bag, then blend them straight from the freezer with the other ingredients. I keep a bag in my freezer at all times so I'm never more than a minute away from making this.

• Use frozen bananas if you want to skip the ice and still get a thick, cold smoothie.
• Pour leftovers into popsicle molds for an accidental dessert that kids love.
• If it gets too thick, thin it out with a splash of milk and a quick pulse in the blender.

Save Pin

This smoothie has gotten me through rushed mornings, lazy afternoons, and more than a few moments when I just needed something that felt good without any effort. It's not fancy, but it works every single time.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy?

Yes, almond, oat, or soy milk work well as substitutes, keeping the drink suitable for vegan diets.

→ How can I make the drink thicker?

Use frozen banana slices instead of fresh ones to achieve a thicker, creamier consistency.

→ What sweeteners are best to use?

Honey or maple syrup can be used to naturally sweeten the blend to taste.

→ Can I add extras for more protein?

Adding a tablespoon of peanut or almond butter boosts protein and adds richness.

→ How long does the blended drink stay fresh?

It's best enjoyed immediately after blending, but can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

→ What tools do I need to prepare this drink?

A blender is essential, along with basic measuring cups, spoons, and a knife for slicing bananas.