5-Minute Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
A creamy, protein-packed smoothie that blends banana, peanut butter, and milk into a quick, nutritious breakfast or snack. Naturally sweet, fiber-rich, and easy to make in just 5 minutes.
Equipment
- 1 Blender
- 1 Measuring Cup
- 1 tablespoon
- 1 knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 medium ripe banana cut into chunks and frozen
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened peanut butter
- A few dashes of cinnamon
- 2 ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by gathering all the ingredients on your countertop. Make sure your banana is fully ripe for natural sweetness and has been cut into chunks and frozen. Measure out one cup of whole milk and two tablespoons of unsweetened peanut butter. Have cinnamon and ice cubes ready as well. This step ensures you have everything organized, making the blending process smooth and efficient.
- Set Up Your Blender: Choose a high-powered blender to achieve the creamiest consistency. Place the blender on a flat, stable surface and ensure it is clean and dry. Attach the blender jar securely to the base. This will prevent any spills or accidents during blending, which is especially important when working with frozen fruit and thick peanut butter.
- Add the Milk: Pour one cup of whole milk into the blender jar first.Adding the liquid first allows the blender blades to move freely and blend the ingredients more evenly, reducing the chance of clumps or uneven texture. Whole milk provides creaminess and healthy fats, making your smoothie rich and satisfying.
- Add the Banana Chunks: Next, add the frozen banana pieces to the blender. Frozen banana creates a thick, frosty texture that mimics a milkshake without added ice cream. Bananas are naturally sweet and add fiber, potassium, and essential nutrients to your smoothie.
- Add the Peanut Butter: Spoon two tablespoons of unsweetened peanut butter into the blender. Peanut butter contributes protein, healthy fats, and a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the banana. Using unsweetened peanut butter keeps the sugar content low while maintaining that creamy texture.
- Sprinkle Cinnamon: Add a few dashes of cinnamon to the blender. Cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic flavor while also providing antioxidants. Don’t overdo it—just a pinch or two enhances the overall taste without overpowering the banana and peanut butter.
- Add Ice Cubes: Drop in two ice cubes to make the smoothie chilled and refreshing. Ice helps achieve a thicker, colder smoothie, perfect for a hot morning or a quick afternoon pick-me-up.
- Begin Blending on Low: Secure the lid tightly on the blender. Start blending on the lowest speed setting to begin breaking down the banana and ice. Starting slow prevents the ingredients from splashing and ensures an even blend from the start.
- Gradually Increase to High Speed: Once the banana and peanut butter start combining, gradually increase the blender speed to high. This ensures a smooth, frothy texture, fully incorporating all ingredients. Blend for about 30–60 seconds or until no large chunks remain and the mixture is creamy.
- Scrape the Sides: Stop the blender and carefully use a spatula to scrape down the sides. This ensures any thick peanut butter or banana stuck to the jar gets fully incorporated. Return the blender to high speed for another 10–15 seconds to achieve a perfectly smooth consistency.
- Adjust Consistency if Needed: If your smoothie seems too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time, blending briefly after each addition until your desired consistency is reached. This allows you to customize the thickness, whether you prefer a spoonable smoothie or a drinkable shake.
- Serve Immediately: Pour the smoothie into a tall glass. For an extra touch, top with a few banana slices or a light sprinkle of cinnamon. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy texture and fresh flavor at its best.
- Optional Tips for Storage or Meal Prep: If preparing ahead, store the smoothie in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick stir or shake before drinking. For a colder version, freeze for 30 minutes before serving to regain that frosty texture.
Notes
- Use a fully ripe banana for maximum sweetness and natural flavor.
- Frozen banana chunks create a creamy, frosty texture without needing ice cream.
- Unsweetened peanut butter keeps sugar content low; adjust sweetness with honey if desired.
- Add milk gradually to control smoothie thickness.
- Blend thoroughly to avoid chunks and achieve a silky, smooth texture.
- Optional: sprinkle cinnamon or cocoa powder on top for extra flavor.
- This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately for freshness and optimal texture.
