Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Shake
A cocoa-and-banana blender drink with peanut butter, simple texture adjustments, and clear allergen notes.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Total
- 10 min
- Makes
- 2 small shakes
This is a banana-based shake with cocoa, not an ice-cream milkshake. Peanut butter gives the drink a richer texture, and ripe banana balances cocoa's bitterness. It is a useful afternoon treat when the ingredients are already in the kitchen.
Choose the ingredients with the finish in mind
Use unsweetened cocoa powder, rather than a hot-chocolate mix with an unknown amount of sugar. Stir a separated jar of peanut butter before measuring so the spoonful is representative of the whole jar. A very firm or dry nut butter can need a little more milk.
| Ingredient | Its job | Adjustment |
|---|---|---|
| Banana | Body and sweetness | A riper banana usually tastes sweeter |
| Cocoa | Chocolate flavor | Begin with the measured amount before adding more |
| Peanut butter | Richness | Stir the jar first if oil has separated |
| Milk | Blending liquid | Add gradually to control thickness |
Keep it simple
There is no need to add raw egg or make a protein claim. This formula has not had nutrition calculated. If you add a powder or sweetened milk, follow that product's directions and expect the flavor to change.
For an ice-cold result, chill the ingredients before starting. Do not assume a weak blender can process a large frozen banana whole; follow the appliance's instructions and cut fruit into suitable pieces.
Recipe development note: This original recipe has not yet been kitchen-tested. Timing and yield are estimates. Images illustrate the food style rather than a tested result.
Troubleshooting
Cocoa on the side of the blender? Stop the machine and scrape it down before blending again. Adding a little milk helps dry powder incorporate.
A chalky finish? More cocoa is not always better. Blend the measured amount thoroughly and use ripe fruit to balance the flavor.
Can I swap peanut butter? A seed butter may be a culinary alternative, but it is not automatically safe for a peanut allergy because labels and cross-contact matter. Choose ingredients appropriate for the person drinking it.
Serving and storage
Make only what you plan to serve. Keep any short-term remainder covered and refrigerated at 40°F or below, and follow the dairy product's handling directions. Perishable drinks should not sit out beyond 2 hours, or 1 hour above 90°F.
Sources and recipe notes
FDA produce preparation guidance supports the handling notes. Use pasteurized dairy or juice where specified. These sources address ingredient handling; they do not mean that this complete recipe has been kitchen-tested. See our editorial standards.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Shake
- Prep
- 10 min
- Total
- 10 min
- Makes
- 2 small shakes
Ingredients
Method
Add milk, banana, peanut butter, cocoa and vanilla to a clean blender in the order recommended by its manufacturer.
Secure the lid and blend until smooth. Stop before scraping the sides or adjusting ingredients.
Taste. If needed, add the optional maple syrup and briefly blend again. Add a tablespoon of milk if the mixture is too thick.
Pour into two glasses and serve promptly.
Photo shows the style of the dish and may differ from this exact recipe.
