With the creamiest texture and the simplest ingredient list, this classic Banana Shake (with yogurt or ice cream) is so yummy. It’s great for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Every afternoon, my kids have one of my smoothie recipes for kids and lately we’ve been changing things up with healthy milkshakes. This banana version has become a new favorite.
This Banana Shake has a base of just 2 simple, nutritious ingredients and can be enhanced with all sorts of extra flavors. It’s thick, creamy, and so darn yummy.
Why this Recipe Works
Blend ripe banana with nutritious Greek yogurt (or vanilla ice cream) for a fast and yummy Banana Shake. This homemade milkshake is a great toddler snack or dessert you’ll want to enjoy, too.
(You may also like my Banana Smoothie with Yogurt and my Banana Milk.)
Table of Contents
Ingredients You Need
Here’s a look at what you need to make this easy Banana Shake.
- Bananas: I use both frozen and fresh ripe bananas in this recipe for the best creamy texture and pure banana flavor. I realize using both might seem extra, but it really delivers on flavor and texture!
- Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream: You can pick which of these you want to use according to your preferences. The yogurt will have less added sugar and will be less sweet with slightly more protein. The ice cream will be sweeter. (For what it’s worth, we love this with yogurt!)
- Vanilla extract: I like to add a touch of vanilla to my banana shakes for ample flavor. You can use pure or artificial vanilla as you prefer.
- Optional: Maple syrup, peanut butter, unsweetened cocoa powder
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Below is a look at how to make this Banana Shake so you know what to expect from the process. The full recipe is at the end of the post for you.
Step 1. Add the ingredients to a blender.
Step 2. Blend well, stopping to scrape down the sides if needed. Serve very cold.
TIP: If it’s hard to blend, add a splash of milk (dairy or plant-based milk) or use the stick that came with your blender if one did.
Banana Shake FAQs
Yes, choose the yogurt option and skip the maple syrup. Be sure to use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
Sure, add 1-2 tablespoons peanut butter to the blender to add that flavor and nutrient element.
You can store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Shake before serving and know the consistency will be more like drinkable yogurt.
Best Tips for Success
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best banana flavor.
- Serve in a straw cup, an open cup, or even a reusable pouch for a toddler.
- Drizzle a little chocolate syrup or cinnamon on top for more fun.
More Banana Snacks
Smoothie Recipes
Banana Smoothie with Milk
Smoothie Recipes
Favorite Blueberry Banana Smoothie
Snacks
Best Banana Milk
Desserts
2-Ingredient Banana Ice Cream
I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe if you try it, so please comment below!
Favorite Banana Shake
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (whole-milk yogurt preferred; or vanilla ice cream)
- 1 cup frozen banana
- 1 fresh ripe banana (or another ½ frozen banana)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cream or milk (optional)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender.
- Blend, starting on low and working up to high to make a smooth mixture. (Use the stick that came with the blender to help get the mixture going as needed.)
- Serve immediately.
Equipment
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. It will have more of a drinkable yogurt consistency when stored.
- Use dairy or nondairy yogurt (or ice cream) as you like.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons peanut or almond butter for additional flavor.
- Add a splash of orange juice to give this a more tropical flavor.
- Add a scoop of protein powder or unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Serve in a straw cup, open cup, or reusable pouch.
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