Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie

Instructions

1. 1

   Add almond milk to the blender first — liquid on the bottom helps the blades move efficiently and prevents the blender from straining.

2. 2

   Add frozen banana (frozen banana gives a thick, creamy, milkshake-like texture that fresh banana cannot achieve), peanut butter, protein powder, chia seeds, vanilla, cinnamon, and ice.

3. 3

   Blend on high for 60–90 seconds until completely smooth with no frozen chunks. The smoothie should be thick enough that it barely flows when you tilt the blender.

4. 4

   Taste and adjust: add more banana for sweetness, more ice for thickness, or a splash more almond milk if too thick. Pour into a large glass and drink immediately. For a meal prep version, pour into mason jars and freeze; thaw in the fridge overnight.