There are two flavor combinations that you can make using peanut butter that are undisputed classics. Peanut butter and chocolate is the first and probably most popular option. Peanut butter and banana is still incredibly popular as well, and for good reason as it’s my personal preferred combo. Today, I’ll be sharing a healthy chocolate peanut butter banana smoothie recipe that mixes all of these great ingredients together to make one incredibly tasty smoothie. Everything that goes into making this smoothie has been carefully selected to make it both nutritious and delicious. You’ll be using one frozen banana, natural peanut butter, cocoa powder, and a few other choice items that all combine perfectly with fantastic results.

A Terrific Smoothie Trio

Each of the three main ingredients in this recipe provides you with quite a few amazing benefits beyond just making a great tasting drink. Starting with the banana, you’ll be getting a great source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals. In addition, despite their relatively high carb content, bananas are rather unique in that they’re digested quite slowly. One study found that daily banana consumption was actually harmless, and perhaps even beneficial, in individuals with type 2 diabetes. (1)

The chocolate flavor of the smoothie is thanks to the use of unsweetened cocoa powder. Using cocoa powder is a great way to make this into a rather heart healthy smoothie, as it’s packed full of flavonoids that provide a wide range of health benefits. Among these health benefits are some rather potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help to reduce your risk of developing certain types of diseases. (2) The only downside is that some people may find the cocoa powder to be slightly bitter — not to worry as you’ll also be adding in two fresh dates which will help to provide a naturally sweet flavor to the smoothie.

The third main ingredient used in this recipe is of course two tablespoons of all-natural peanut butter. I find that this is the perfect amount to add a solid mix of healthy fats and protein into the mix without going overboard on the calorie content. Along with that fat and protein content, natural peanut butter provides other essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin E. I’m a self-admitted sucker for peanut butter as I add it into most of my smoothies and pretty much have a daily spoonful on top of that as well!

As I mentioned briefly, this recipe also calls for two pitted dates to be added in order to help offset the slightly bitter taste of the cocoa powder. After adding all of the above ingredients, you can add your liquid base ingredients that consist of one cup of unsweetened almond milk and ½ cup of ice. Blend everything together and you’ll be all set to enjoy one tasty treat that also doubles as a rather healthy meal replacement option.