There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of ripe bananas and rich cocoa. Whether you’re seeking a healthy breakfast, a nourishing snack, or a guilt-free dessert, my banana cocoa powder recipe will satisfy your cravings in the simplest way.
This recipe marries the natural sweetness of bananas with the deep, chocolatey flavor of cocoa powder, resulting in a treat that’s both wholesome and decadent.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can blend it into a smoothie, bake it into muffins, or even enjoy it as a creamy pudding.
It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and free from refined sugars—just pure, real ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, you’ll only need a handful of everyday equipment and a few minutes to whip it up.
If you’re a fan of quick, nourishing recipes, you’ll adore this one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 10 minutes, with no fancy techniques required.
- Healthy and Nourishing – Packed with potassium, fiber, and antioxidants from simple, plant-based ingredients.
- Versatile – Perfect as a breakfast smoothie, a snack, or a dessert base. Try it as a pudding or freeze it for banana-chocolate popsicles!
- Allergy-Friendly – Naturally vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. No eggs, no nuts (unless you choose to add them).
- Minimal Ingredients – Uses pantry staples you probably have on hand.
- Kid-Friendly – The creamy chocolate-banana flavor is a guaranteed hit with little ones (and adults, too!).
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe Bananas | 2 large | The riper, the sweeter |
| Unsweetened Cocoa Powder | 2 tablespoons | Use high-quality for best flavor |
| Plant-Based Milk | 1/2 cup | Almond, oat, or soy work well |
| Maple Syrup (optional) | 1 tablespoon | For extra sweetness |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances chocolate flavor |
| Pinch of Salt | 1 pinch | Balances flavors |
| Chia Seeds (optional) | 1 tablespoon | For thickness and nutrition |
Equipment
- Blender (or food processor)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing bowl (if mashing by hand)
- Spatula
- Serving glasses or bowls
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bananas:
Peel the ripe bananas and break them into chunks. For a thicker, colder result, freeze the banana pieces for 1-2 hours beforehand.
-
Add Ingredients to Blender:
Place the banana chunks, cocoa powder, plant-based milk, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and pinch of salt into your blender.
-
Blend Until Smooth:
Process on high speed for about 30-60 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides as needed.
-
Add Chia Seeds (Optional):
For a pudding-like texture and a boost of nutrition, stir in chia seeds after blending. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to thicken.
-
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the mixture. Add more cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor, or more maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
-
Serve:
Pour into glasses for a smoothie, bowls for pudding, or popsicle molds for frozen treats. Top with sliced bananas, berries, or a sprinkle of granola if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Make it a Smoothie Bowl: Use less plant-based milk for a thicker blend, then top with fresh fruit, coconut flakes, or seeds.
- Chocolate Banana Popsicles: Pour the blended mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for a refreshing summer treat.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder—chocolate or vanilla work best.
- Nutty Twist: Blend in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Overripe Bananas: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up bananas that are too soft for eating but perfect for blending or baking.
- Allergy Friendly: Oat milk is a great nut-free option.
Pro Tip: For a special treat, top your banana cocoa pudding with a handful of cacao nibs for crunch and extra antioxidants!
If you love easy, plant-based sweets, you might also enjoy exploring Best Vegan Chocolate Recipes for Decadent Desserts or try a Chocolate Smoothie Bowl Recipe Vegan: Easy & Delicious Ideas for your next breakfast.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/2 recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 15g (from bananas) |
| Potassium | 450mg |
| Iron | 1.2mg |
Note: These values are approximate and will vary depending on the type of milk and sweetener used.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Enjoy as a smoothie or thick smoothie bowl topped with chia seeds, fresh berries, and a drizzle of nut butter.
- Snack: Pour into jars and refrigerate for a cool, creamy pick-me-up.
- Dessert: Serve in bowls as a pudding, layered with coconut yogurt and granola for a parfait.
- Frozen Treat: Freeze in popsicle molds for chocolate banana pops.
- Lunchbox: Portion into small containers for an on-the-go, kid-friendly snack.
Pair your banana cocoa treat with a crunchy salad, like this Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, for a balanced plant-based meal!
Conclusion
This banana cocoa powder recipe is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. With just a few basic ingredients and a blender, you can create a treat that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Whether you’re craving something sweet for breakfast, a snack, or a healthier dessert, this recipe is endlessly adaptable to your needs.
Don’t be afraid to get creative—add your favorite toppings, mix in superfoods, or freeze for a hot day. If you’re looking for more vegetarian and vegan inspiration, check out my Best Vegetarian Recipes Without Tofu for Every Meal for even more delicious ideas.
Here’s to enjoying chocolate the healthy way!
📖 Recipe Card: Banana Cocoa Powder Smoothie
Description: A quick and healthy smoothie combining ripe bananas and cocoa powder for a delicious chocolatey treat. Perfect for breakfast or a nutritious snack.
Prep Time: PT5M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT5M
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Peel and slice the bananas.
- Add bananas, cocoa powder, milk, honey, vanilla extract, ice cubes, and salt to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 3g | Carbs: 38g
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