Posted Jan 12, 2022, Updated Feb 20, 2024 We always have frozen bananas on hand to use to make smoothies. But one day I thought, why do bananas have to share the stage with other fruits all the time? So I created this Banana Smoothie recipe where bananas are the star of the show. This banana smoothie is thick, creamy and flavorful with hints of vanilla and cinnamon. It’s like eating a healthy banana pudding in liquid form! Plus, it’s easy to make with 6 ingredients in less than 5 minutes. You can add greens and protein powder to add even more flavor and nutrition!
Banana Smoothie: Ingredients and Substitutions
Milk. Any type of milk works well in this recipe. Some suggestions include: whole milk, 2% milk, almond milk, coconut milk and oat milk. Greek yogurt. I like to use a full-fat, creamy vanilla Greek yogurt like Honey Vanilla Greek Yogurt or Siggi’s Vanilla Bean yogurt. You can choose your favorite, or use a dairy-free variety to make this banana smoothie dairy-free. If you choose an unsweetened yogurt, you may need to add more honey. Frozen banana. Make sure to freeze the bananas for a thick smoothie! Vanilla extract & Cinnamon. These ingredients make this banana smoothie extra special and delicious, I don’t recommend substitutions. Honey. Maple syrup is a great substitution for honey. Greens: I almost always add a cup of frozen spinach to my smoothies because it adds nutrition without changing the flavor. Just note it will turn the smoothie green.
How to Make a Banana Smoothie
This banana smoothie recipe is easy to make in less than 5 minutes in the blender. Don’t forget to watch the video! Place the ingredients in the order listed in the container of a Vitamix blender (or another high-powered blender). Blend, starting on low speed and increasing to high, for 30-60 seconds or until mixture is smooth.
Banana Smoothie Add-ins
Protein Powder – this is my favorite plant-based, whey-free protein powder in vanilla and chocolate. Collagen Powder – a neutral tasting protein boost! Also good for gut health! Maca -for increased fertility and hormone balance. Chia Seeds – added protein without powders. Ground Flaxseed – a dose of Omega 3s! Bee Pollen – boosts immunity. Raw cacao nibs – a healthy way to add a little chocolate! Nuts or seeds Coconut Oil – increases metabolism, keeps you full for longer!
Serve
Serve immediately in either two or four glasses. You can add a drizzle of peanut butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon or even a dollop of homemade whipped cream!
Store/Freeze
This healthy banana smoothie can be refrigerated for up to two days or frozen for around 2 months, although I suggest drinking it immediately. To freeze, pour the smoothie mixture into a silicone tray (like an ice cube tray or these souper cube trays) and store for up to 2 months If you make and love our recipes, it would mean so much to me if you would leave a comment and rating! And don’t forget to follow along with us on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Youtube – be sure to tag @joyfoodsunshine and use the hashtag #joyfoodsunshine so we can see your creations!
