Prep your bananas. Use fully ripe bananas, slice them, and freeze overnight in a single layer.
This gives you a thick, creamy base without extra ice crystals.
Add base ingredients to the blender. Start with 1/2 cup milk, yogurt, cocoa powder, nut butter, vanilla, and a small pinch of salt. Add the frozen banana slices on top.
Blend low and slow. Pulse a few times, then blend on low. Scrape down the sides as needed.
Add a splash more milk only if the blades struggle. You want a thick, spoonable texture.
Taste and adjust. If it’s not sweet enough, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or a date and blend again. For a deeper chocolate flavor, add another half tablespoon of cocoa.
Get the right texture. Aim for soft-serve consistency.
If it’s too thin, add a few ice cubes or more frozen banana. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time.
Serve immediately. Spoon into a wide bowl. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon to make a base for toppings.
Add toppings. Keep it simple or go all out—granola for crunch, fruit for freshness, seeds for nutrients, and a drizzle of nut butter for that luscious finish.