Chunky Monkey Smoothie Bowls

Treat yourself to a decadent yet wholesome breakfast with these Chunky Monkey Smoothie Bowls. Inspired by the classic flavor profile of chocolate, banana, and nuts, this bowl is incredibly creamy and topped with a satisfying variety of textures from crunchy granola to nutritious seeds.

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Using simple ingredients like cocoa powder and peanut butter, this smoothie bowl provides a rich chocolatey base that is both filling and delicious. It is a versatile choice that works perfectly as a morning meal or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

• 2 medium bananas, peeled, sliced, and frozen
• 1/4 cup peanut butter powder or 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2–3 tablespoons coconut water

• 1 banana, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup maple cinnamon granola (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 teaspoons cacao nibs
• 2 teaspoons hemp seeds
• 2 teaspoons mini chocolate chips (optional, dairy-free if desired)

Instructions

Step 1

Place the frozen bananas, peanut butter powder or peanut butter, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and coconut water into a high-powered blender or food processor.

Step 2

Blend on low speed, gradually increasing to medium-high, using the tamper to keep the mixture moving. If using a food processor, pulse and scrape down the sides as needed until smooth and creamy.

Step 3

Divide the smoothie base evenly between two bowls.

Step 4

Top each bowl with sliced banana, granola, cacao nibs, hemp seeds, and mini chocolate chips if using.

Step 5

Serve immediately and enjoy.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To achieve the best consistency, use a high-powered blender and a tamper to keep the frozen ingredients moving toward the blades. If the mixture is too thick, add the coconut water sparingly to maintain that ice-cream-like thickness.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can customize this bowl by swapping peanut butter for almond or cashew butter. For those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter and a nut-free granola are excellent alternatives. Additionally, you can add a scoop of protein powder for an extra nutritional boost.

Serviervorschläge

Garnish each bowl with fresh banana slices, a generous portion of maple cinnamon granola, and a sprinkle of cacao nibs and hemp seeds. For an extra touch of sweetness, add mini chocolate chips.

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Handle kitchen cleanup easily by disposing of food scraps, packaging, and cooking waste without leaks or odors.

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With its rich chocolate flavor and crunchy toppings, these Chunky Monkey Smoothie Bowls are a delightful way to start the day. Serve them immediately to enjoy the perfect creamy texture!

Recipe FAQ

→ How do I make my smoothie bowl thicker?

Use completely frozen bananas and minimize the coconut water or milk. Start with 2 tablespoons of liquid and only add more if absolutely necessary for blending. The less liquid you use, the thicker and creamier your bowl will be.

→ Can I prepare these smoothie bowls in advance?

For best texture and freshness, blend and serve immediately. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead—slice and freeze bananas the night before, measure out dry toppings, and have everything ready to blend in the morning.

→ What can I use instead of peanut butter?

Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter work beautifully as substitutes. Each brings its own distinct flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture and nutty element that complements the chocolate-banana base.

→ How do I make this smoothie bowl higher in protein?

Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder when blending, or stir in Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and protein. Hemp seeds in the topping also contribute additional plant-based protein and healthy fats.

→ Can I make this without a high-powered blender?

A food processor works well—pulse and scrape down the sides frequently to help break down the frozen bananas. It may take slightly longer, but you'll still achieve a smooth, creamy consistency with a bit of patience.

→ Are cacao nibs necessary, and what do they taste like?

Cacao nibs are optional but add a wonderful crunch and intense chocolate flavor without sweetness. They're crushed bits of pure cacao beans with a slightly bitter, nutty taste that balances the sweet smoothie base perfectly.