Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie Recipe

Lately, I’ve been on a mission to increase my protein intake. I try to include a lean protein source with every meal, but mornings don’t always leave time for cooking. That’s where this peanut butter banana protein smoothie comes in. It’s quick, simple, and super satisfying.

Whether I’m rushing out the door or need something to refuel after a workout, this smoothie gives me a solid 33 grams of protein and about 8 grams of fiber thanks to the chia seeds and banana. It doesn’t use any protein powder, but you can absolutely toss in a scoop if you’d like to boost it even more.

You will need a blender for this recipe, but nothing fancy. I love using my personal-cup Ninja blender for smoothies. It blends everything perfectly and comes with sip lids that screw right onto the blender cup for a true blend-and-go situation.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie

High-protein – Has 33.8g of protein (when made according to the recipe), without any protein powder!

Easy to make – Blends up in just minutes with just a handful of ingredients.

Naturally sweet – Frozen ripe banana adds sweetness without any added sugar.

Peanut butter flavor without the heaviness – Powdered peanut butter without oil like regular peanut butter keeps it light and creamy.

Great for post-workout or busy mornings – Protein and fiber to keep you going.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this smoothie:

• Frozen banana
• Greek yogurt
• Ultra-filtered milk
• Powdered peanut butter
• Chia seeds
• Cinnamon

Frozen Banana – Naturally sweet and creamy. I always freeze overripe bananas in small chunks so they’re ready to go.

Greek Yogurt – I use non-fat plain Greek yogurt for the most protein without added fat. It makes the smoothie thick and creamy.

Ultra-Filtered Milk – I like using Fairlife or a similar brand. It has twice as much protein per cup than regular milk.

Powdered Peanut Butter – Adds rich peanut butter flavor without the calories or oils of jarred peanut butter.

Chia Seeds – An easy add-in to inch up the protein content, along with fiber.

Cinnamon – A dash adds a cozy warmth that pairs perfectly with banana and peanut butter.

Why Use Powdered Peanut Butter in Your Protein Smoothie?

I love peanut butter, but when I’m focusing on protein without overdoing calories or fat, powdered peanut butter (like PB2) is my go-to. You still get that rich peanutty flavor, but with:

• Fewer calories – Just 60 calories per 2 tablespoons (vs. 190 in prepared peanut butter)
• No added oils – Just roasted peanuts and salt, and a touch of sugar, in most brands
• Blends easily – No clumping or sticking to the blender

What Is Ultra-Filtered Milk and Why Use It in Smoothies?

Ultra-filtered milk is regular dairy milk that’s been filtered to remove some of the water and lactose.

The result is milk that’s creamier, lower in sugar, and higher in protein—about 13g per cup compared to 8g in regular 2% milk.

I use it often in smoothies when I want an easy way to increase protein without using powders.

Protein at a Glance

Here’s how the protein adds up in this smoothie:

• Greek Yogurt (¾ cup): 18g
• Ultra-Filtered Milk (½ cup): 6.5g
• Peanut Butter Powder (2 tbsp): 6g
• Chia seeds (1 tbsp): 2g
• Banana (1 medium) 1.3g
• Total: 33.8g protein

How to Make a Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie

Detailed recipe and instructions are in recipe card at bottom of post.

1. Add chia seeds to the milk first. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to soften while you get out the blender and measure the other ingredients.
2. Add everything to your blender. Add the milk and chia seeds, frozen banana chunks, peanut butter powder, cinnamon and Greek yogurt.
3. Blend until smooth. It should be thick and creamy, but you can add a splash more milk if needed.
4. Taste and enjoy. The banana should provide all the sweetness, but if you like it sweeter blend in a little honey, maple syrup or your preferred sweetener.

Add smoothie ingredients to blender cup.

Follow the order recommended for your particular blender.

Blend and serve immediately.

Why soak chia seeds before blending?

Chia seeds are tiny nutritional powerhouses, but soaking them briefly before blending helps unlock their full benefits. When soaked in liquid, they begin to soften and “bloom,” which may help your body absorb their nutrients more effectively.

In this smoothie, I like to let the chia seeds sit in the milk for about 5 minutes while I prep the other ingredients. It only takes a few minutes, but it can make a difference.

I go into more detail in my Strawberry Banana Smoothie with Chia Seeds recipe, if you’re curious!

Smoothie Tips

• Freeze bananas ahead of time in 1-inch chunks so they’re always smoothie-ready.
• Add milk first to help your blender process more smoothly.
• Use a high-protein milk like Fairlife to maximize your protein per serving.
• Optional add-ins – A scoop of protein powder or even oats for extra staying power.

If you like the flavor combo of banana and peanut butter, check out my peanut butter banana oatmeal smoothie. It’s not a high-protein smoothie, but it’s super filling and comforting for breakfast or snack time.

Make-Ahead Freezer Packs for Peanut Butter Banana Smoothies

If you want to speed things up even more, prep a few smoothie freezer packs in advance!

Just add the following to a small freezer-safe bag:

• Frozen banana chunks
• Peanut butter powder
• Chia seeds

When you’re ready to make the smoothie, just dump the frozen contents into your blender, then add the milk and let sit for 5 minutes (so the chia seeds can bloom), then add Greek yogurt and blend.

More High-Protein Smoothies to Try

Each of these smoothies is made with real ingredients and delivers a solid dose of protein—many with a natural caffeine boost too!

• Banana Chai Smoothie – 27g protein (has caffeine)
• Coffee Banana Smoothie – 27g protein (has caffeine)
• Strawberry Banana Smoothie – 25g protein
• Mango Banana Smoothie – 24g protein
• Peach Banana Smoothie – 23g protein
• Strawberry Matcha Smoothie – 23g protein (has caffeine)
• Strawberry Blueberry Smoothie – 20g protein