Banana-Oat Smoothie Recipe (With Video)

Prep Time:

5 mins

Total Time:

5 mins

Servings:

1

A sweet banana-oat smoothie is a nourishing treat for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Bananas are nutrient-rich and packed with fiber, antioxidants, potassium, magnesium, vitamin B6, and Vitamin C. The milk and yogurt in this smoothie bring lean protein, and the oats add even more fiber and give the smoothie a thicker, more satisfying texture.

A touch of cinnamon brings a subtle sweet spice and rounds out the flavors. There are countless ways to make it your own, from varying the type of fruit added to swapping in dairy-free yogurt and milk for a vegan result (see more suggestions below the recipe). This is a delicious smoothie that satisfies and will help you power through your morning—or afternoon.

Key Ingredients for Our Banana-Oat Smoothie (and Swaps)

Dairy: This recipe calls for both yogurt and milk, which lend plenty of protein and calcium. Using low-fat yogurt and reduced-fat milk cuts down on fat, but if you're looking for a richer, thicker result, you can swap in full-fat yogurt and whole milk instead—or go with a full-fat option and one reduced-fat.

Oats: We use old-fashioned oats for a dose of filling fiber; they also give the smoothie a thicker consistency. If you don't have old-fashioned oats on hand, swap in quick-cooking oats instead. But don't swap in oat groats or steel-cut oats because these types of oats are too chunky for a smoothie.

Fruit: One ripe, medium-sized banana is all you need for this recipe. To make your smoothie even thicker, sweeter, and colder, use a frozen banana. We recommend peeling bananas before freezing as it can be difficult to remove the peels afterwards.

Sweetener: A couple of teaspoons of honey is all that's needed to sweeten this nutritious smoothie. You can add more honey for a sweeter result, or swap in maple syrup or agave nectar instead.

Directions

Ingredients for Banana oat Smoothie — Credit:
Jason Donnelly

Combine ingredients in a blender:

In a blender, combine oats, yogurt, banana, fat-free milk, honey, and cinnamon.

Credit:
Jason Donnelly
Blend:

Puree until smooth.

Credit:
Jason Donnelly

If smoothie is too thick, add a small amount more milk and blend again. If it is still too thick after that, add a small amount more milk.
Serve:

Serve immediately.

Credit:
Jason Donnelly

Variations

We love this banana-oat smoothie, but we also like to mix it up by adding other flavors:

Make it vegan by using a non-dairy yogurt and milk, such as almond or coconut, and swap the honey for agave.
Add a tablespoon of coconut oil.
Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of creamy peanut butter (or use powdered peanut butter)—or opt for the same amount of almond butter.
Swap the cinnamon for 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
Add 1 tablespoon hemp hearts for more protein.
Add more fruit, such as fresh or frozen pineapple or berries.
Top the smoothie with chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to put raw oats in a smoothie?

Yes, it is OK to put raw oats in a smoothie. They are safe and nutritious to eat whether you add them to a bowl of yogurt and fruit, blend them in your smoothie, or make overnight oats.
Should you soak oats before using in a smoothie?

You can soak oats before using them in a smoothie to give your drink a smoother texture. To soak the oats: use the milk from the smoothie recipe (and blend the milk and oats when you make the smoothie). Alternatively, use water and discard it after soaking—it will give the smoothie a thinner consistency. Whichever approach you take, soak the oats for at least 30 minutes.
Can I make this recipe using a food processor if I don't have a blender?

Yes, you can make this recipe using a food processor. Follow the directions for making the smoothie in a blender, but note that the drink may be slightly less smooth when made in a food processor than if you were to use a blender.