Carrots & Cookies

  • Home
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Subscribe
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Home
  • About
  • Recipes
  • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • Home
    • About
    • Recipes
    • Subscribe
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×
    • Apple Cider Vinaigrette Dressing in a small glass bowl with a white serving spoon.
      Apple Cider Vinaigrette Dressing
    • Double chocolate chip banana cookies on a white plate.
      Banana Cocoa Cookies
    • Mini banana pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, topped with sliced banana and almond slices on a white plate.
      Mini Banana Pancakes
    • Nine deviled eggs on a white plate with a sprig of fresh parsley for garnish.
      Easy Deviled Eggs Without Mustard
    • Three brown hard-boiled eggs in white egg cups.
      How to Make Steamed Hard-Boiled Eggs
    • A lettuce salad on a round white plate with a small white bowl of basil balsamic dressing.
      Basil Balsamic Dressing
    • Three different smoothies in glass jars with striped straws.
      16 Ways to Increase Protein in Smoothies without Protein Powder
    • One Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Smoothie in a glass jar topped with oats and a mini chocolate chip, served with a straw.
      Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Smoothie
    • A Christmas holiday salad in a large white serving bowl with a small white bowl with the salad dressing in the center of the salad greens.
      Quick and Easy Christmas Salad
    • A holiday salad in a white serving bowl with a gold serving spoon.
      Thanksgiving Fruit Salad
    • Three images of fruit smoothies with straws.
      8 Fruit Smoothies Without Yogurt
    • A whole roasted chicken stuffed with carrots and celery in a white Dutch oven.
      Easy Dutch Oven Chicken
    Home Recipes Breakfast Recipes

    Best Banana Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie

    Modified: Jan 26, 2022 · Published: Nov 17, 2021 by Kristi Ruth RD · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    ↓ Jump to Recipe

    Easy Banana Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie with 6 simple ingredients in 5 minutes. Quick and easy smoothie recipe for a filling breakfast or afternoon snack!

    One strawberry peanut butter banana smoothie in a glass jar with a pink and white striped straw.

    I won't just show you how to make a strawberry and banana smoothie, I'll show you how easy it is to make it your own in the 'helpful tips' and 'questions you may have sections'. 🤩

    If your kids like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, they'll love this smoothie made with milk, peanut butter, fruit, dates, and a little bit of honey. It's a smoothie your whole family will love!

    I've updated this recipe by adding more strawberries and using pitted dates instead of figs, since dates are more of a pantry staple nowadays. It's so good!

    Whether you make this smoothie for a quick and easy breakfast or for a substantial snack in preparation for a high-intensity workout, this smoothie will hit the spot!

    Jump to:
    • Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • Ingredient Notes
    • How to Make a Banana Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie
    • Dietitian Tip
    • Helpful Tips
    • Questions You May Have
    • Related Recipes
    • More Smoothie Recipes
    • 📖 Recipe

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    Also referred to as a 'PB&J' smoothie, this higher calorie smoothie will help meet your energy, protein, fiber, and fluid needs.

    • Easy recipe This recipe is so easy, older kids can make it for themselves. I've made this recipe using a NutriBullet Pro and a Vitamix. Both worked great for this smoothie recipe, even when I used a frozen banana.
    • Well balanced. This smoothie contains carbohydrate, protein (13 grams of protein per 12 ounce serving), and fat which are essential for optimal growth and athletic performance. It's also full of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and flavonoids.
    • Kid-Approved This strawberry and banana smoothie recipe is made with peanut butter, the perfect combination of frozen and fresh fruit, and sweetened with dates and honey. Your kids will love the pink color, flavor, and the fact that that this isn't a green smoothie. 😉

    Ingredient Notes

    Banana Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie ingredients, labeled.
    • Strawberries Use frozen strawberries. Strawberries are high in vitamin C, antioxidants, vitamins, manganese, folate, fiber, and more. They give this smoothie a nice light pink color.
    • Banana High in fiber and potassium. Bananas add a natural sweetness that kids love. Use a frozen banana for a thicker smoothie.
    • Pitted Dates Can use dried figs instead. High in fiber and rich in vitamins, minerals (like potassium and magnesium), flavonoids and antioxidants. Dates and figs add natural sweetness to this smoothie recipe.
    • Milk Good source of protein and calcium. I suggest using 2% (low-fat) milk, but you could also use skim or whole milk. There are differences in Calories and saturated fat content between skim, low-fat, and whole milk. Protein content is the same.
    • Creamy Peanut butter Peanut butter is packed with protein, fiber, and monounsaturated fats ('healthy fats'). I use natural peanut butter (the kind made with just peanuts or peanuts and salt) because its thinner consistency works best for this recipe.
    • Honey I use local raw honey because of the many potential health benefits. Even though natural raw honey is considered an added sugar, it is a better option than refined sugars. Regardless, I only add a small amount to get the perfect amount of sweetness. Can use maple syrup instead.

    How to Make a Banana Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie

    Two numbered images showing how to make a Banana Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie.

    Here's a quick overview of the steps to make this delicious strawberry banana peanut butter smoothie. For the full list of ingredients and specific instructions, scroll down to the recipe card.

    1. Place all ingredients in a high-powered blender.
    2. Blend for about one minute, until desired consistency is reached. Serve and enjoy!

    Dietitian Tip

    So often we are rushing out the door and find ourselves (or our kids) either going without much to eat or grabbing something quickly, even though we know it might not be the best option.

    Having a nutrient-dense breakfast and after school snack can make a big difference. I mean, where do kids think their "energy" comes from after all? 😉

    A slow touch on the soccer field or poor concentration in school can often be linked to not eating enough or to poor diet quality. This is where smoothies can help!

    Smoothies are not only delicious and easy to make, but they can be made so that they are filling and loaded with a variety of nutrients. This strawberry banana peanut butter smoothie is the perfect example of how easy it can be done.

    Helpful Tips

    • Pitted dates and dried figs can be found in most grocery stores. I buy mine in bulk from Costco.
    • For best results, use a high-speed blender.
    • I've made this smoothie using a NutriBullet Pro blender and a Vitamix - both blenders worked well! If using a Vitamix, this recipe can be made using the standard 48- or 64-ounce low profile blender.
    • If you only have fresh strawberries, I recommend placing them in the freezer for a few hours before blending them. Frozen fruit helps to give smoothies a thick consistency.
    • A frozen banana can be used instead of a fresh over-ripe banana. It will thicken the smoothie more than a fresh banana, so you may want to add another tablespoon or two of milk to thin it out.
    • Other nut butters, like almond butter, can be used instead of peanut butter. Although subtle, the peanut butter flavor is noticeable. You could even use sunflower seed butter to keep this smoothie nut-free.
    • While this is a fruit smoothie without yogurt, it is made with milk. If you are intolerant or allergic to dairy, use a dairy-free milk alternative.
    • Cow's milk has 8 grams of protein per 8-ounce serving. So, using a milk alternative in place of cow's milk will likely change the protein content of this smoothie. For example, coconut milk is high in saturated fat and contains no protein.

    Questions You May Have

    Are smoothies good for picky eaters?

    Yes! Smoothies take less energy to consume (no need to chew) and all of the flavor's blend together, so it's an easy way to get a variety of nutrients into your kids.

    My pickiest eater will drink almost any smoothie that is served with a straw or topped with mini chocolate chips.

    Also, if you have a picky eater, keep in mind that repeated exposure to various flavors and textures of food can increase acceptance. So, don't give up! 🙂

    How long can you store this smoothie in the fridge?

    This smoothie will hold up for a few hours in the fridge or well-insulated cup (like a Yeti). Your kids may just need to stir it to help improve the consistency first.

    Can I use a different kind of milk to make this smoothie?

    Yes, the great thing about smoothie recipes is that they are easy to modify. Regular cow's milk can be substituted with your milk of choice.

    Just know that when you change the kind of milk you use, the nutritional value of the recipe will be different.

    How can I add more protein to this smoothie?

    There are so many ways to add protein to smoothies! For instance, you can add a tablespoon or two of chia seeds, flax seeds, or hemp hearts for a boost of protein, fiber, and omega-3 fats to this smoothie.

    Protein powder will really change the taste and consistency of this smoothie. Still, if you really love the taste of protein powder, you could add some.

    Related Recipes

    • Blueberry Mango Tofu Smoothie
    • Smoothie with Carrot and Banana
    • Acai Bowl with Protein
    • Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Smoothie

    More Smoothie Recipes

    • Top view of a pitaya smoothie in a glass jar topped with pieces of pitaya and a pink and white striped straw .
      Easy Pitaya Smoothie
    • Up-close image of green island smoothie in a glass mug topped with crushed freeze-dried strawberries and served with a stainless-steel straw.
      Island Green Tropical Smoothie
    • Top view of a mango pineapple smoothie in a glass mason jar and topped with pieces of frozen mango and a mini beverage umbrella.
      Mango Pineapple Smoothie Recipe
    • One tall glass of watermelon banana smoothie with a stainless-steel straw. A white plate with stacked watermelon slices is in the background.
      Easy Watermelon Banana Smoothie

    Did you make this strawberry banana smoothie with peanut butter and love it? Please let me know by leaving a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and comment below. A 5-star rating is the best compliment!

    Remember to follow me on Instagram @carrots.and.cookies for more easy recipes and nutrition tips!

    📖 Recipe

    Strawberry banana smoothie in a glass jar, topped with a strawberry and served with a pink and white straw.

    Banana Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie

    Kristi
    Easy Banana Strawberry Peanut Butter Smoothie with 6 simple ingredients in 5 minutes. Quick and easy smoothie recipe for a filling breakfast or afternoon snack!
    4.84 from 24 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 0 minutes mins
    Total Time 5 minutes mins
    Course Breakfast, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Servings 1 12 ounces
    Calories 527 kcal

    Equipment

    • Blender
    • 1 measuring cups and spoons

    Ingredients
      

    • 1½ cup strawberries frozen
    • 1 cup 2% milk can use milk of choice. see notes.
    • 1 small banana ripe or over ripe
    • 2 pitted Medjool dates or dried figs, stems removed.
    • 1 tablespoon peanut butter
    • 1 teaspoon honey

    Instructions
     

    • Place all ingredients in a high powered blender.
    • Blend for about one minute, or until desired consistency is reached.
    • Serve and enjoy!

    Notes

    *Nutrition Facts are estimated using a database that this owner is not responsible for maintaining. Exact nutrition information will depend on the actual ingredients and amounts used when making this smoothie recipe.
    • I've used dried pitted Medjoo0l dates and dried figs from Costco to make this smoothie. If using figs, remove the stems first.
    • Peanut butter gives a subtle but distinct flavor that kids notice. If using an alternative to peanut butter, be sure to use one your kids like. 
    • Frozen banana can be used in place of a fresh over-ripe banana. The consistency will be a little thicker, so you may want to add an additional one to two tablespoons of milk to thin it out.
    • Changing the type of milk used to make this recipe can change the nutritional information significantly. For instance, coconut milk is high in saturated fat and contains no protein while cow's milk contains 8 grams of protein per cup.
    • I've made this smoothie recipe with success using a NutriBullet Pro blender and a Vitamix. There are just enough ingredients in this smoothie recipe to use the 64 ounce low-profile container that comes with the standard model of the Vitamix.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 527kcalCarbohydrates: 96gProtein: 15gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 19mgSodium: 118mgPotassium: 1449mgFiber: 11gSugar: 74gVitamin A: 403IUVitamin C: 136mgCalcium: 362mgIron: 2mg
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    More Breakfast Recipes

    • A plate of pumpkin pancakes topped with toasted pecans.
      Pumpkin Pancakes with Pancake Mix
    • Seven Pumpkin Banana Bread muffins with mini chocolate chips on a white plate.
      The BEST Pumpkin Banana Bread Muffins
    • A stack of protein pancakes topped with a small amount of yogurt and a few blueberries.
      Easy Protein Pancakes without Protein Powder
    • Six pieces of avocado toast topped with tomato and a variety of other topping that differ by piece. Served on a white platter.
      Easiest Avocado Toast with Tomato
    4.84 from 24 votes (24 ratings without comment)

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Kristi Ruth RD wearing a green top with jeans and holding a white platter with tri-colored carrots.

    Welcome to Carrots & Cookies! I'm a busy working mom of three and can now say that I've been a dietitian for 20 years!! I'm on a mission to show you that eating well doesn't have to be complicated by providing you with easy recipes and practical nutrition tips! More about me...

    Popular Recipes

    • Three pieces of barbecue chicken with two ears of corn topped with pieces of cilantro and served on a white plate.
      15-Minute Air Fryer BBQ Chicken

    • Pesto with tortellini, chicken, and broccoli in a large white serving bowl with a spoon.
      15-Minute Pesto with Tortellini

    • Up close image of nut free trail mix in a glass mason jar (top view). Trail mix also around the base of the glass jar.
      Nut Free Trail Mix for Kids

    • One ripe pineapple with a still on held up over a pile of pineapples.
      How to Pick a Good Pineapple

    • Top view of a bowl of Carrot Butternut Squash Soup topped with pumpkin seeds.
      Easy Carrot Butternut Squash Soup

    • Shredded chicken on a white platter.
      How to Boil Chicken Breast for Shredding

    Easy Recipes for Summer

    • A pile of cooked marinated lemon pepper chicken on a white plate.
      Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Marinade

    • Chunks of fresh watermelon topped with Tajin and cinnamon.
      5-Minute Tajin and Watermelon

    • Kale salad in a yellow bowl with a set of tongs in the salad as to serve.
      Easy Kale (Tuscan) Salad

    • A chip being dipped into guacamole served in a white ramekin.
      4-Ingredient Guacamole Recipe

    • Pieces of fresh fruit on toothpicks and bamboo skewers on a white plate with yogurt and granola in separate ramekins.
      Favorite Fruit on a Stick

    • Strawberry banana smoothie bowl served in a white bowl and topped with sliced banana, freeze dried strawberries, chia seeds, and chocolate chips.
      Easy Strawberry Banana Smoothie Bowl

    Footer

    Featured In

    Southern Living logo.
    Yahoo logo.
    Well + Good logo.
    Eat This logo.
    Eating Well logo.
    Womans World logo.
    LiveStrong logo.
    Fod news logo.
    Real simple logo.
    Parade logo.
    Parents logo.
    The Beet logo.
    Clean Plate logo.

    ↑ back to top

    • Privacy Policy
    • Accessibility Statement

    Copyright © 2024 Carrots & Cookies

    Rate This Recipe

    Your vote:




    A rating is required
    A name is required
    An email is required

    Recipe Ratings without Comment

    Something went wrong. Please try again.