If you’re someone who loves starting the day with something that’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients, you are in the right place. Smoothie bowls are great because you feel like you are either having a decadent breakfast or a healthy dessert.
This is a winning breakfast idea that’s creamy, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying. Combining the nutty richness of a nut butter, the sweetness of bananas, and the creaminess of coconut milk and yogurt it’s a recipe that will have you hooked.
I’ve made so many versions of these. For this post, I’m keeping it simple with a 6-ingredient recipe. Super-duper easy.
The six ingredients don’t include the toppings because, honestly, you don’t even need them. Alone, this chocolate protein smoothie bowl stands on its own – like a bowl of chocolate soft serve ice cream. Full of chocolatey goodness, but it’s healthy so you can feel good about eating it!
Why You will love smoothie bowls
Smoothie bowls are like a morning hug in a bowl. They combine the refreshing, creamy goodness of smoothies with the added excitement of toppings. Unlike a drinkable smoothie, they are meant to be enjoyed with a spoon, giving you a hearty, fulfilling experience.
What sets smoothie bowls apart is their versatility. From tropical fruits to nutty delights, you can tailor them to your taste buds and dietary preferences. In this particular recipe, the creamy nut butter and frozen bananas create a dreamy base, while coconut milk and a splash of vanilla take it to the next level with flavor and texture.
Health Benefits of Smoothie Bowls:
Not only are smoothie bowls super tasty, but they are also nutrient-packed. They offer a combination of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and protein that fuel your day. For instance:
Frozen bananas are the unsung heroes of smoothie bowls. They give the smoothie a thick, creamy consistency that feels like soft-serve ice cream—minus the guilt! Plus, they are naturally sweet, which means you don’t have to rely on added sugars. They are also packed with potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber, making them an excellent way to kickstart your day.
Ah, cashew butter—the heart and powerhouse of this recipe. Creamy, nutty, and downright addictive, it’s what makes this smoothie bowl so indulgent. But cashew butter isn’t just about taste; it’s a great source of protein, healthy fats, and magnesium. For those wondering if all nut butters are created equal, the answer is no. Opt for natural, unsweetened varieties to get the best health benefits.
People sometimes question whether a smoothie bowl is healthy. Well, let me tell you, smoothies and smoothie bowls absolutely CAN be a healthy choice – so long as they are what is considered a balanced meal!
The idea of a balanced meal is one that contains – 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein, 30% healthy fats. If its unbalanced, such as when you have a high amount of carbohydrates, little protein or healthy fat, it is not so healthy and will spike your blood sugar level for hours.
Balanced meals have a less severe effect on our blood sugar levels so after eating, our hunger hormone leptin decreases, and the appetite-suppressing hormone ghrelin is raised. This allows us to stay full for longer, and get on with our day without searching for a snack every half hour.
Smoothies and bowls that provide a balanced nutrient profile ARE a healthy choice. They will keep you fuller for longer, provide you with a variety of vitamins and minerals to nourish your cells, and maintain steady blood sugar levels to keep you functioning at your very best!
Sometimes people even question the high calorie nature of a smoothie or smoothie bowl. Ah, the calorie debacle. Let’s clear this one up.
Calories are a measure of energy. Just like centimetres are the measurement units for the length of a table, calories are the measurement units for the energy in the food we eat. But what does this actually mean?
Our bodies are constantly using energy – even when we are laying at rest, the basic metabolic processes in our body need energy to keep functioning. Then, when we are going about our days, working, exercising, even just standing – our need for energy increases.
Food is the fuel for our bodies – so eating provides us with this energy. Keeping in mind the balanced meal idea, it is crucial to understand that different macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbohydrates) have different caloric values and different effects on our bodies.
Protein and fats will keep you fuller for longer whereas carbohydrates provide a shorter and sharper source of energy. So despite the caloric content, a balanced smoothie bowl should keep you full and satisfied until your next meal!
Also, remember that food has much more value than just energy – it is hydrating, contains essential nutrients, provides you with mental clarity, maintains blood sugar levels, supercharges your metabolism, strengthens your bones, reduces out of control food cravings, boosts your immune system, and satisfies your SOUL! So keep in mind:
Calories = energy.
Calories ≠ great health outcomes.
Chocolate Protein Smoothie Bowl
Ingredients
- 1 banana, sliced, frozen
- 2 tablespoons cashew (or any nut or seed) butter
- 1/2 cup almond milk or milk of choice
- 1/4 cup Greek-style yogurt
- 1 scoop protein or collagen peptides powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup - optional
Toppings Optional
- Whipped coconut cream – recipe below in notes
- Fresh fruit or berries
- Chopped nuts
- Coconut shreds
- Seeds like hemp, chia or sunflower
Instructions
- In a blender,combine the frozen banana, cashew butter, coconut milk, yogurt, protein powder, vanilla and honey if using.Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk quantity if you prefer a thinner or thicker consistency.Pour the smoothie into a serving bowl.Top with your favorite toppings for extra nutrition and indulgence.Serve immediately for a protein-packed, satisfying breakfast or snack!
Notes
If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites
