All mornings are better with a creamy Banana Smoothie that tastes like banana cream pie. This easy, healthy smoothie is thick, satisfying and ready in about five minutes. With just four main ingredients and no added sweeteners, it highlights the natural sweetness and smooth texture of ripe bananas while offering a good source of protein when made with Greek yogurt.
This simple Banana Smoothie recipe is perfect for busy mornings, an on-the-go breakfast, or a nourishing snack. It’s flexible too: you can use dairy or plant-based milk and swap in non-dairy yogurt for a vegan version. The result is a creamy, frosty drink that feels indulgent but is made from wholesome ingredients.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Thick, creamy texture that tastes like banana cream pie without added sugar.
- High-protein option when made with Greek yogurt; naturally sweet from fruit.
- Quick to prepare—only about five minutes and four main ingredients.
- Easy to customize for vegan or dairy-free diets by swapping milk and yogurt.
Recipe ingredients
This banana smoothie uses four core ingredients and can be adapted to your preferences. See the notes below for substitutions and tips.
Ingredient notes
- Bananas: Use ripe but still firm bananas for the best color and texture. Overly brown bananas can darken the smoothie. For a thick, frosty texture, freeze sliced bananas ahead of time.
- Milk: Any milk works—dairy or plant-based. Unsweetened almond milk, oat milk or canned coconut milk produce different flavor profiles and make this recipe dairy-free if desired.
- Greek yogurt: Plain Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess with minimal sugar. For a vegan option, substitute with your favorite unsweetened non-dairy yogurt.
- Vanilla extract: A small amount enhances the banana flavor and gives a dessert-like note without extra sweetness.
How to make this recipe
This banana smoothie is incredibly simple to make. Use a blender and follow the two quick steps below.
- Combine the milk, plain Greek yogurt, frozen banana chunks and vanilla extract in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
FAQs
Are banana smoothies good for you?
Bananas provide potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, magnesium and fiber, and they add natural sweetness and energy. Because they contain natural sugars and carbohydrates, consider portion sizes and your dietary needs.
What does banana do in a smoothie?
Bananas add natural sweetness and create a thick, creamy texture. When frozen, banana pieces make smoothies frosty and satisfying without needing ice.
How do I freeze bananas for smoothies?
Slice ripe bananas into 1″ pieces and freeze them in a single layer on a tray or baking sheet. Once frozen, store in a sealed bag or container in the freezer for up to three months.
How do I make this smoothie if I’m vegan?
Use plant-based milk and a non-dairy yogurt to keep the texture and creaminess while making the recipe vegan-friendly.
Recipe notes
- Pro tip: Choose ripe bananas that are not overly brown for the best color and flavor.
- Freeze banana slices in a single layer to prevent clumping; transfer to a sealed bag for storage.
- Add-ins: cocoa powder, nut butter, or fresh/frozen berries are easy ways to vary the flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust the milk quantity for a thinner or thicker smoothie—use less milk for a spoonable texture.
More smoothie recipes you’ll love
- Pineapple cherry smoothie
- Peach mango smoothie
- Strawberry banana smoothie
- Tropical kale smoothie
Did you try this recipe? If so, leave a review and tag @flavorthemoments on social media to show what you made.
Easy Banana Smoothie Recipe
This banana smoothie is creamy, satisfying and packed with protein. It uses just four ingredients and is ready in five minutes.
Servings and time
- Servings: 2
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Total time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk (use your favorite)
- 6 ounces plain Greek yogurt (about 3/4–1 cup)
- 2 large frozen ripe bananas, cut into chunks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Place the milk, Greek yogurt, frozen banana and vanilla extract in a blender.
- Blend until smooth. Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm bananas for the best color and flavor.
- Freeze bananas in 1″ slices and store in a single layer for up to three months.
- For a dairy-free smoothie, substitute nondairy milk and yogurt.
- Optional additions: cocoa powder, nut butter, or berries for extra flavor.
Nutrition (per smoothie)
Calories: 251 kcal • Carbohydrates: 40 g • Protein: 14 g • Fat: 5 g • Fiber: 4 g • Sugar: 26 g • Potassium: 771 mg
Nutrition estimates are provided as a guideline and are calculated using a food database.
Note: This recipe was originally published in January 2014 and has been updated with revised text and photos.