I love starting my day with an Oatmeal Smoothie Bowl that blends a frozen banana, almond milk, and rolled oats for a naturally sweet treat. A touch of vanilla and hemp seeds add flavor and nutrition. This dairy free and gluten free bowl is a satisfying and healthy breakfast option.

Jump to Recipe

I’ve been experimenting with breakfast ideas lately and I came up with this super delicious Vanilla Banana Smoothie Bowl that instantly became a favorite in my house. I use a frozen banana, a cup of unsweetened almond milk and half a cup of rolled oats to give it that perfect thickness, and a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to lift the flavor.

I also toss in a tablespoon of hemp seeds for a bit of extra protein and crunch. Sometimes I add a teaspoon or two of maple syrup if I need a touch more sweetness or even a couple of ice cubes for an even thicker texture.

It reminds me a bit of those trendy spirulina acai bowl or oatmeal smoothie bowl recipes but with a classic twist. Honestly, this recipe is quick, filling and a perfect dairy and gluten free option for any meal of the day.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I really love how easy and quick it is to make this smoothie bowl, like you can just throw everything in the blender and it’s ready in minutes even on busy mornings.
2. I enjoy that it tastes like ice cream but is actually a healthy option, which makes me feel better about treating myself without all the guilt.
3. I appreciate that it’s fully vegan and dairy-free, plus it’s gluten-free too, so I don’t worry about what I’m eating.
4. I like the cool crunch from the hemp seeds on top, it adds a little extra texture that makes the bowl even more satisfying.

Ingredients

Print Recipe (No Advertisments)

Frozen banana: adds natural sweetness, high in fiber and potassium, a nutritous treat.
Unsweetened almond milk: dairy free liquid with a gentle flavour that makes the blend creamier.
Rolled oats: bring fiber and healthy carbs, making the bowl fuller and more textured.
Vanilla extract: adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that really lifts the overall taste.
Hemp seeds: boost protein and omega fatty acids, supporting heart health and good digestion.
Maple syrup: gives extra sweetness naturally in small amounts, though its optional.
Ice cubes: chill the mix and thicken it when you want a heartier texture.

Ingredient Quantities

1 frozen banana

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk you like)

1/2 cup rolled oats

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon hemp seeds

Optional: 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup for extra sweetness

Optional: A few ice cubes if you want it thicker

How to Make this

Print Recipe (No Advertisments)

1. First, toss your frozen banana into the blender along with 1 cup of your favorite unsweetened plant milk.

2. Add in 1/2 cup of rolled oats and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

3. If you like your smoothie a bit sweeter, toss in 1-2 teaspoons of maple syrup.

4. For an extra thick consistency, throw in a few ice cubes as well.

5. Blend everything together until smooth. If it seems too thick for your taste, add a splash more milk.

6. Once it blends well, pour your smoothie into a bowl.

7. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of hemp seeds over the top for a nutty crunch.

8. Enjoy your vanilla banana smoothie bowl immediately and savor every spoonful!

Equipment Needed

1. Blender
2. Measuring cup(s)
3. Measuring spoon(s)
4. Serving bowl
5. Spatula or stirring spoon

FAQ

Q: Can I use another type of milk instead of unsweetened almond milk?

A: Yes, you can use any plant-based milk like oat or coconut milk, just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor.

Q: What if I don't have frozen bananas?

A: Using fresh bananas is fine but the smoothie bowl might be a bit more runny, so you might wanna add a few ice cubes to thicken it up.

Q: Do I really need to use rolled oats?

A: The oats help give the bowl a thicker texture, but you can skip them if you are not a fan or if you have dietary restrictions.

Q: How can I make the smoothie bowl sweeter?

A: If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of maple syrup or even a little bit of other sweeteners you like.

Q: Can I add other toppings?

A: Sure, it is all about how you like it so you can add fruits, granola, or even a drizzle of nut butter on top.

Vanilla Banana Smoothie Bowl Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You could swap unsweetened almond milk with soy milk, coconut milk or even regular dairy milk if you dont mind the change.
If you don’t have rolled oats on hand, try using quick oats or even blend some quinoa flakes for a similar texture.
Instead of vanilla extract, use a small amount of vanilla bean paste or even a pinch of cinnamon for a twist.
Replace hemp seeds with chia seeds or flax seeds which also bring a nice boost of nutrients.
If maple syrup isn’t available, you could use agave nectar or honey (if youre not keeping it vegan) for extra sweetness.

Pro Tips

1. Try soaking your rolled oats in the plant-based milk for about 5-10 minutes before blending to get a smoother texture and help release more creaminess.
2. Toast your hemp seeds in a dry pan for a couple of minutes until they’re slightly golden – it’ll give your smoothie bowl a crunchier, nuttier flavor that really pops.
3. If you’re into a little spice, toss in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg when you blend. It can add an extra layer of warmth without overpowering the banana flavor.
4. Don’t be afraid to tweak the liquid-to-frozen fruit ratio. Sometimes a splash more milk can make the smoothie bowl just the right thickness without diluting the overall taste.

Vanilla Banana Smoothie Bowl Recipe

Recipe by Theo Fines

0.0 from 0 votes

Servings

servings

Calories

352

kcal

Equipment: 1. Blender
2. Measuring cup(s)
3. Measuring spoon(s)
4. Serving bowl
5. Spatula or stirring spoon

Ingredients

1 frozen banana
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk you like)
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon hemp seeds
Optional: 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup for extra sweetness
Optional: A few ice cubes if you want it thicker

Directions

First, toss your frozen banana into the blender along with 1 cup of your favorite unsweetened plant milk.
Add in 1/2 cup of rolled oats and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
If you like your smoothie a bit sweeter, toss in 1-2 teaspoons of maple syrup.
For an extra thick consistency, throw in a few ice cubes as well.
Blend everything together until smooth. If it seems too thick for your taste, add a splash more milk.
Once it blends well, pour your smoothie into a bowl.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of hemp seeds over the top for a nutty crunch.
Enjoy your vanilla banana smoothie bowl immediately and savor every spoonful!

Notes

Below you’ll find my best estimate of this recipe’s nutrition facts. Treat the numbers as a guide rather than a rule—great food should nourish both body and spirit. Figures are approximate, and the website owner assumes no liability for any inaccuracies in this recipe.