Heart Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 11/25/2025
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy | High Protein | Gluten Free | Diabetic | Vegetarian
Heart Healthy Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie
Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

Ready in just five minutes, this high-protein peanut butter banana smoothie is a creamy, satisfying blend that aligns perfectly with a heart-healthy diet. We use Greek yogurt and peanut butter for a dose of protein and healthy fats, helping you stay full and energized longer. This smoothie is also incredibly versatile for dietary adjustments and can be easily prepped ahead, making it the ideal grab-and-go meal for busy mornings.

Total Time
5 minutes
Servings
2
Calories
241

What Makes This High Protein Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie Healthy

This smoothie is an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals because it effectively balances macronutrients, delivering substantial protein for muscle maintenance and satiety, alongside fiber-rich fruits and healthy monounsaturated fats. This combination provides sustained energy and makes it a far better nutritional option than pre-packaged breakfast drinks or refined grain cereals.

Key Health Highlights

  • High in Protein: Provides a significant amount of protein per serving (16g per serving) from Greek yogurt and milk, supporting fullness and muscle health.
  • Source of Healthy Fats: Peanut butter contributes monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help manage cholesterol.
  • Fiber-Rich Fruit: Bananas are a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
  • Excellent Make-Ahead Option: Can be prepped and frozen in advance, encouraging healthy eating even on busy days.

FAQs About High Protein Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie

Yes, the recipe can be adjusted for either goal. For weight loss, use unsweetened milk and half the honey. For weight gain, add high-calorie, healthy ingredients like oats or extra nut butter.

For the best flavor and texture, drink the smoothie within 24 hours. Store it in an airtight container, filled to the top to minimize air exposure, which helps prevent separation and oxidation.

To maintain the high-protein content, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with cottage cheese or a scoop of unflavored whey or plant-based protein powder. For milk, use water, almond milk, or coconut water, adjusting the ice as needed.

Yes, try using 1 cup of frozen mango chunks, 1/2 cup of unsweetened frozen cauliflower, or 1/4 of an avocado plus a sweetener like dates or stevia to maintain the creamy texture without the banana flavor.

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Ingredients

Recipe yields 2 servings

Directions

  1. In a blender, combine milk, ice, honey, peanut butter, nutmeg and banana and blend for 2 minutes, or until smooth. Add yogurt and process until blended.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
1 cup

241
Calories
11
g
Fat
8
mg
Cholesterol
82
mg
Sodium
31
g
Carbs
2
g
Sat. Fat
2
g
Fiber
16
g
Protein

Alternative Cooking Methods

While smoothies are inherently blender-based, you can adjust the method depending on your equipment:

  • Immersion Blender: If you don't have a large blender, an immersion blender can work for a single serving. Ensure all ingredients, especially the frozen banana and ice, are cut into small pieces for even blending.
  • Food Processor: A powerful food processor can be used as a last resort, especially if you want a thicker, "nice-cream" texture. Blend in short pulses and scrape down the sides frequently to ensure a creamy consistency.

Serving & Storage Tips

  • Serving: Serve immediately for the coldest, thickest texture. For an extra nutrient boost, sprinkle the top with chia seeds, hemp hearts, or a dash of ground flaxseed.
  • Storage: The smoothie is best consumed fresh, but you can store leftovers for up to 24 hours in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The smoothie may separate; simply shake or re-blend briefly before serving.
  • Make-Ahead Prep: For the quickest morning blend, pre-portion all dry ingredients (nutmeg, peanut butter, honey, protein powder if using) and the frozen banana into a freezer-safe bag or jar. In the morning, just add the liquid and Greek yogurt to your blender.

Ingredient Substitutions

If avoiding bananas, use 1 cup of frozen mango, 1 cup of mixed berries, or a scoop of protein powder with 1/4 of an avocado to maintain the creamy body.

You can swap skim milk for almond milk, soy milk (higher protein), oat milk, or water. Note that using non-dairy milks will slightly change the flavor and nutrient balance, but is perfect for a dairy-free adjustment.

Use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter if you need a different flavor profile or have a peanut allergy. Be sure to check labels for added sugar and sodium to keep the recipe heart-healthy.

Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a high-protein, heart-healthy chocolate and peanut butter dessert-like flavor.

Instead of just nutmeg, try adding a blend of cinnamon, cardamom, and a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper to boost the smoothie's flavor complexity.

Blend in 1/4 cup of quick oats (ensure they are gluten-free if needed) to increase the fiber content and add a subtle nutty texture, making the smoothie even more filling.

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