Equipment Needed
- A high-speed blender (I use my trusty standard one, but a food processor works in a pinch)
- A rubber spatula
- Your favorite bowl (wide and shallow is best for topping real estate!)
- A measuring cup and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, I add all my base ingredients straight into the blender jar: the frozen banana chunks, the frozen berries, the yogurt, milk, nut butter, vanilla, and that optional honey if my berries are a bit tart. I’ve learned the hard way that layering matters for my blender. I put the softer ingredients (yogurt, milk) near the blade and the frozen fruit on top to help everything blend smoothly.
Now, I start blending on low, using the tamper if my blender has one, or stopping to scrape down the sides with my spatula. This is where patience is key. If I rush and add too much liquid, I’ll get a smoothie, not a spoonable bowl. I pulse and blend, pulse and blend, until it’s just combined into a very thick, almost scoopable consistency. It should mound on a spoon. If it’s stubborn, I add just a single teaspoon more of milk at a time.
Once it’s perfectly thick, I pour and scrape every last bit into my wide bowl. I use the back of my spoon to swirl it and create a lovely canvas. Then comes the truly fun part: the toppings. I sprinkle on the granola for crunch, artfully arrange slices of my fresh fruit (kiwi and strawberry are my go-to), and then scatter the chia seeds and coconut flakes for texture and healthy fats.
The final, non-negotiable flourish is a generous drizzle of nut butter over the top. I warm it for just 10 seconds to make it runny. This adds a rich, savory note that cuts the sweetness and makes the whole thing feel gourmet. Then, I take a picture (I can’t resist!) and dig in immediately with a spoon, getting a bit of creamy base and every topping in one perfect bite.(See the next page below to continue…)