Save My blender broke mid-blend the first time I tried making this, and I had to finish it by hand with a fork. The result was chunky, messy, and absolutely delicious. I named it Chunky Monkey right there in my tiny kitchen, laughing at the chaos. Now it's my go-to breakfast when I need something that feels indulgent but fuels my whole morning.
I made this for my sister after her morning workout, and she scraped the bowl clean without saying a word. Then she asked if I could teach her how to make it. That's when I knew this recipe was a keeper, because my sister never asks for recipes.
Ingredients
- Frozen bananas: The backbone of the creamy texture, and freezing them ahead saves you from watery smoothie bowl sadness.
- Peanut butter powder or peanut butter: The powder keeps it thick and scoopable, but regular peanut butter works if you add a little less liquid.
- Vanilla extract: Just a teaspoon rounds out the chocolate and makes the whole bowl smell like a bakery.
- Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives you that deep chocolate flavor without turning it into a sugar bomb.
- Coconut water: Just enough to get the blender moving, but not so much that you lose that thick, spoonable consistency.
- Fresh banana: Sliced on top for contrast, because sometimes you want a little bite of soft sweetness.
- Maple cinnamon granola: The crunch factor that makes every spoonful different.
- Cacao nibs: Bitter, crunchy, and somehow they make the whole thing taste more grown-up.
- Hemp seeds: Tiny nutritional powerhouses that add a subtle nutty flavor.
- Mini chocolate chips: Totally optional, but they turn breakfast into a small celebration.
Instructions
- Blend the base:
- Add frozen bananas, peanut butter powder, vanilla, cocoa powder, and coconut water to your blender or food processor. Start on low and work your way up, using the tamper to push everything down into the blades until it's smooth and thick like soft-serve ice cream.
- Adjust consistency:
- If it's too thick to blend, add coconut water one tablespoon at a time. You want it thick enough that a spoon stands up in it.
- Divide and top:
- Scoop the smoothie base into two bowls and arrange your toppings however makes you happy. I like to line them up in rows, but my kids just dump everything on at once.
- Serve immediately:
- This is best eaten right away before it melts. Grab a spoon and dig in while it's still cold and thick.
Save One Saturday morning, my neighbor came over and caught me eating this straight from the blender because I didn't want to wash an extra bowl. She laughed, grabbed a spoon, and we stood in the kitchen sharing it. Now she texts me every few weeks asking if it's Chunky Monkey morning.
Customizing Your Bowl
I've swapped peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, and even sunflower seed butter when my niece visits. Each one changes the flavor just slightly, but they all work. If you want it sweeter, drizzle a little maple syrup or honey over the top instead of mixing it in.
Make-Ahead Tips
I peel and slice bananas whenever I have extras and toss them in a freezer bag. That way, I always have them ready to go. You can also pre-portion the smoothie base ingredients into small containers and just dump and blend in the morning.
Serving Suggestions
This makes a solid post-workout breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up when you're craving something sweet. I've even served it as dessert at brunch, and people couldn't believe it was just frozen fruit and cocoa.
- Add a scoop of protein powder if you need extra fuel for the day.
- Try swapping granola for crushed walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
- Drizzle a little nut butter on top for extra richness and a pretty swirl.
Save This bowl has become my little morning ritual, the one thing that feels like a treat even on the most ordinary Tuesday. I hope it brings you that same quiet joy.
Your Questions Answered
- → What makes these bowls creamy?
Frozen bananas create the thick, ice cream-like texture. Blending them with cocoa powder and peanut butter powder results in a silky smooth base that's naturally creamy without dairy.
- → Can I make these ahead?
For best texture, enjoy immediately after blending. If storing, keep the blended base in the freezer and thaw slightly before adding toppings. Fresh toppings are best added just before serving.
- → How do I make them nut-free?
Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter and choose nut-free granola. All other ingredients remain the same, maintaining the chocolate-banana flavor profile.
- → Can I add protein?
Absolutely. Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder to the blender. You may need slightly more coconut water to achieve the right consistency.
- → What if I don't have a high-powered blender?
A food processor works well too. Pulse and scrape down the sides frequently. Allow frozen bananas to thaw for 5 minutes before blending for easier processing.
- → Are these bowls filling enough for breakfast?
Yes. With bananas, peanut butter, granola, and seeds, these provide balanced carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. Around 350 calories per bowl keeps you satisfied.