Smoothies are a really great way to start the day, although I can have one anytime. There’s nothing wrong with smoothies for dinner! Depending on what you put in them, they can also be very “dessert-y”, like this vanilla peanut butter version. Sweet but healthy, this is a treat that definitely makes you feel like you’re indulging.
The vanilla in this recipe comes from both vanilla extract and vanilla protein powder. I use Terrasoul Foods Vanilla Protein Powder (they also have Chocolate, Turmeric, Deep Green and Unflavored). The vanilla is not overpowering; if want to heighten the flavor, you can add more extract or protein powder to taste, or use vanilla soy or almond milk instead of plain.
I like to freeze bananas – once they’ve ripened I’ll break them into pieces and store them in the freezer in a bag. Bananas add an extra creaminess and sweetness to the smoothie, but it’s very important your bananas are at the proper stage of ripeness to make sure they’re sweet. It turns out I was eating them way too soon. If you’re like me and aren’t sure when to eat your bananas, I recommend this post on how to tell if a banana is ripe by Veronica Grace of Plant Based U.
As I usually do with my smoothies, I added ground flaxseed. It’s optional, but I like to include it as flaxseed is an excellent way to get both fiber and Omega-3. I also use all natural peanut butter, such as Justin’s All Natural.
This makes two 12 oz. smoothies, or one 24 oz. smoothie.
Vanilla Peanut Butter Smoothie
Sweet but healthy, this vegan vanilla peanut butter smoothie is a delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of plain soy milk
- 1 banana
- 3 Tbsp. peanut butter
- 1 Tbsp. vegan vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract or one vanilla bean
- 1 tsp. ground flaxseed (optional)
- 2 cups of ice
Instructions
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Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend thoroughly; you may need to stop it a couple of times and tamp down the sides or mix the bottom of the blender a little if it gets stuck.
Recipe Notes
Use vanilla soy milk for more vanilla flavor.
If you want more peanut butter flavor, use 4 Tbsp. (or 1/4 cup).
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