Rich Cocoa Smoothie Bowl with Almond Butter (Vegan)
So you’re craving chocolate, but you also want to feel like a morally superior, plant-powered adult who has their life together? Same.
Rich Cocoa Smoothie Bowl with Almond Butter (Vegan)—a breakfast that tastes like dessert, looks fancy enough for Instagram, and still lets you say things like, “Oh this?
It’s vegan.” It’s thick, chocolatey, nutty, and takes less effort than deciding what show to binge next. Blender on. Doubts off.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
Let’s start with the obvious: it tastes indulgent. Like, suspiciously indulgent. Rich cocoa flavor, creamy texture, and almond butter doing what almond butter does best—making everything better.
Second, it’s vegan and dairy-free, which means no weird heaviness afterward. Your stomach stays calm. Your conscience stays clean. Everyone wins.
Third, it’s basically idiot-proof. No baking, no timing stress, no “wait, did I ruin this?” moments. If you can push a blender button, you’ve already nailed it. FYI, this is my go-to when I want chocolate before noon but don’t want regret as a side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing wild. Nothing expensive. Just solid ingredients doing their job.
- Frozen bananas (2 medium) – The creamy base. Non-negotiable.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1½ tbsp) – Deep, rich chocolate flavor without sugar drama.
- Almond butter (1½ tbsp) – Creamy, nutty, and emotionally supportive.
- Plant-based milk (½–¾ cup) – Almond, oat, soy—whatever’s already in your fridge.
- Chia seeds or ground flaxseed (1 tbsp) – Tiny seeds, big nutritional ego.
- Vanilla extract (½ tsp) – Optional, but highly encouraged.
- Pinch of salt – Yes, salt. It makes chocolate taste better. Trust me.
Optional toppings (aka the fun zone):
- Banana slices
- Vegan granola
- Coconut flakes
- Cacao nibs
- Extra almond butter drizzle (because restraint is overrated)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add everything to the blender.
Toss in frozen bananas, cocoa powder, almond butter, plant milk, seeds, vanilla, and salt. No fancy order required. - Blend low, then high.
Start slow so your blender doesn’t have a meltdown. Then increase speed until smooth and thick. - Check the consistency.
Too thick? Add a splash of milk. Too thin? Add more frozen banana. Adjust like the capable adult you are. - Pour into a bowl.
This is a smoothie bowl, not a drink. If you need a straw, something went wrong. - Top it off.
Add toppings, admire your work, and eat immediately while it’s cold and creamy.
Nutritional Facts
Approximate values per serving
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~340 kcal |
| Protein | ~10 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~40 g |
| Fiber | ~11 g |
| Healthy Fats | ~14 g |
| Sugar (natural) | ~17 g |
This smoothie bowl is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats, making it both energizing and satisfying. Cocoa provides mood-boosting antioxidants, while almond butter supports sustained energy and fullness. I love how this keeps me full without making me feel heavy or sluggish. It’s comfort food that actually shows up for you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using fresh bananas only.
That’s how you get chocolate banana juice. Frozen bananas = thick perfection. - Adding too much milk too fast.
Go slow. You can add liquid, but you can’t take it back. - Skipping the salt.
Chocolate without salt tastes flat. Rookie mistake. - Overloading toppings.
This is breakfast, not a toppings buffet. Balance matters… a little.
Alternatives & Substitutions
- No almond butter?
Peanut butter works. Cashew butter works. Sunflower seed butter works. All good choices. - Want more protein?
Add a scoop of vegan chocolate protein powder. It blends in beautifully. - No bananas?
Use frozen mango or avocado. Different flavor, same creamy payoff. - Need it sweeter?
Add a date or a drizzle of maple syrup. Easy fix.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Is this smoothie bowl actually filling?
Yes. Fiber + healthy fats = no mid-morning snack panic.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can, but it’s best fresh. Smoothie bowls wait for no one.
Does it taste bitter from the cocoa?
Nope. Banana and almond butter balance it perfectly.
Can I turn this into a drinkable smoothie?
Technically yes—just add more milk. But you’ll miss the toppings.
Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s chocolate. Enough said.
Can I skip the toppings?
You can, but you’ll feel a little empty inside. Just saying.
Final Thoughts
This Rich Cocoa Smoothie Bowl with Almond Butter (Vegan) is proof that plant-based eating doesn’t have to feel like a compromise. It’s rich, satisfying, quick to make, and flexible enough to fit your mood. Whether it’s breakfast, post-workout fuel, or “I want chocolate but still love myself” food, this bowl delivers.
Now go blend, top, and enjoy. You just made chocolate work for you—and honestly, that’s a life skill. 🍫🥄
