Love dessert for breakfast? Try my oatmeal breakfast cookies, breakfast cheesecake, and oatmeal breakfast bars. Starting with a smoothie every morning was the best decision I ever made. I’ve made every flavor combination there is, and nothing satisfies quite like a chocolate and peanut butter smoothie.  If you’re looking for a thick, creamy smoothie that basically tastes like a milkshake, this one is for you. 

Why I love this recipe

It tastes like dessert. If you love milkshakes or thick shakes, this is the kind of smoothie that will make you swoon. Just 4 ingredients. All you need is bananas, cocoa powder, peanut butter, and milk. No added sugar. Instead, the smoothie is naturally sweetened with bananas.  A healthy treat. The bananas pack potassium, the peanut butter is healthy fats, and the cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants.

Ingredients needed

Milk. I used unsweetened almond milk, but coconut milk, whole milk, or oat milk all work.  Ripe bananas. Fresh or frozen bananas. I prefer using a frozen banana since it makes for a thicker, creamier smoothie. Peanut butter. Either crunchy or creamy peanut butter works. Aim for one with no added sugar. Cocoa powder. I used Dutch-processed and unsweetened cocoa powder, which has a smoother chocolate taste. I tested cacao powder and thought it made the smooth overly bitter.  Ice. Optional, but only add ice if you prefer an extra thick smoothie.

How to make a chocolate peanut butter smoothie

I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post. Step 1- Blend. In a high speed blender, add all of the ingredients, except for the ice. Blend until combined. For a thicker smoothie, add ice and blend once more. Step 2- Serve. Transfer the smoothie into two glasses and serve immediately.

Arman’s recipe tips

Start at a low speed. The best way to get a smooth, creamy smoothie is to start off slow, then gradually increase the speed before ending at low speed. Make a smoothie bowl. Use frozen bananas, reduce the milk by half, and make it in a food processor.  Amp up the sweetness. This smoothie is naturally sweetened with bananas, so it’ll only be as sweet as the bananas. If you like it extra sweet, add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup, honey, or liquid sweetener.

Storage instructions

To store: Smoothies can be stored in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days. Be sure to whisk it well before serving.

Swap the nut butter. Use almond butter, cashew butter, or for a nut-free smoothie, try sunflower seed butter.  Add more healthy fats. Like hemp seeds, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or avocado.  Add protein. Plain Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and protein powder can add extra staying powder while also making the smoothie extra creamy.  Use different fruits. Feel free to add any other fruits to the smoothie, like berries, mango, or pineapple.

To freeze: Place the smoothie in ice cube trays or an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months. When ready to enjoy, simply place the frozen portions into a blender and blend until thick and smooth.

Frequently asked questions

More delicious smoothies

Oatmeal smoothie Coconut smoothie Carrot smoothie Almond butter smoothie Or any of my smoothie recipes

Originally updated June 2023, updated and republished July 2024

Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie  4 Ingredients   - 21Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie  4 Ingredients   - 27Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie  4 Ingredients   - 4Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie  4 Ingredients   - 78Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie  4 Ingredients   - 15Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie  4 Ingredients   - 68