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    Home » Recipes » Breakfast

    Published: May 22, 2021 · Modified: Feb 9, 2023 · This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking through my links.

    How to Make a Thick Smoothie Bowl

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    smoothie bowl
    VWFOFGF

    This delicious Breakfast Thick Smoothie Bowl is packed with nourishing Antioxidants and Omega-3s rich ingredients to power your brain and replenish your body first thing in the morning.

    smoothie bowl
    Jump to Recipe - Print Recipe

    This bowl along with our Post-workout smoothie constitute our powerhouses for training days!

    Try also our Superfood Green Detox Smoothie, also on this site, to complement your weekly breakfast meal plan.

    Berries are at their best during springtime, so if you plan on topping your smoothie with fresh berries, take that into consideration!

    🧾 Ingredients

    • Frozen fruit - such as frozen berries, frozen strawberries, frozen bananas, and frozen kiwi fruit, just like we do in our strawberry kiwi smoothie.
    • Non-dairy milk - such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk.
    • Seeds and nuts - we like using chia seeds, flax meal, and walnuts.
    • Your favorite toppings - like fresh fruit or applesauce.
    thick-smoothie-bowl-ingredients
    Thick Smoothie Bowl Ingredients

    🔪 Instructions

    Place your base frozen ingredients and the plant milk and protein, in a blender or a food processor.

    Pour into a bowl and serve with your favorite toppings.

    Pro tip: blending the frozen ingredients makes your smoothie bowl perfectly creamy. Don't try mixing frozen berries with regular bananas or vice-versa. Additionally, hemp flour or seeds will make it extra creamy, as hemp has healthy fats that help give the smoothie bowl that creaminess we are looking for.

    🧐 how to make smoothie bowls thick

    If you're looking to make thick smoothie bowls, there are a few things you can do to make sure your bowl is extra thick and creamy.

    First, start with a frozen fruit base - either frozen banana or frozen mango. These will help to thicken up your bowl and make it extra cold and refreshing.

    frozen banana
    frozen banana
    frozen strawberries with frozen lemon juice
    frozen strawberries

    Second, add in healthy fat - such as almond butter or avocado - to help create a thick and creamy texture. We also like using the almond meal we make after making homemade almond milk.

    Finally, be sure to add plenty of toppings! Thick smoothie bowls are all about the toppings, so go crazy with your favorite fruits, nut kinds of butter, and seeds.

    By following these tips, you'll be sure to create a smoothie bowl that's thick, creamy, and absolutely delicious.

    👨🏻‍🍳 Favorite smoothie bowl toppings

    When it comes to smoothie bowls, the sky is the limit when it comes to toppings. Fresh fruit, crunchy nuts and seeds, and creamy nut butter are all great options.

    For a bit of sweetness, add in some shredded coconut or chocolate chips. And don't forget the power of a good topping to make a smoothie bowl even more filling and satisfying.

    Puffed quinoa, chia seeds, and granola all make excellent toppings that will help keep you full until your next meal. So experiment with different toppings and find your favorite combination. Your perfect smoothie bowl is out there waiting for you.

    📖 Variations

    Nut butter - to make your smoothie bowl richer, you can add a dollop of peanut butter, cashew butter, or almond butter on top, right before serving.

    Plant milk - we like using homemade oat milk, homemade soy milk, unsweetened coconut milk, and homemade almond milk, to make our smoothie bowls healthy and cholesterol-free.

    This smoothie bowl recipe uses berries, kiwi, and bananas, but you can use all kinds of frozen fruit.

    You can skip the berries and kiwi fruit to make a pure banana smoothie bowl, just replace the quantity of frozen fruit, with a frozen banana.

    When I make a banana smoothie bowl, I like making one of these thick smoothie bowl recipes:

    • Strawberry banana smoothie bowl - simply using frozen strawberries as the complementary base. The combination is inspired by our easy strawberry banana smoothie.
    • Coconut smoothie bowl - double the amount of shredded coconut and choose coconut milk over other non-dairy options.
    • Peanut butter smoothie bowl - Add one dollop of peanut butter before blending all the ingredients. Similar to our banana oatmeal smoothie recipe.
    • Cocoa smoothie bowl - simply add one tablespoon of dark chocolate or cocoa powder, just like we do in our banana strawberry chocolate smoothie version.

    🥇 Reasons to have this bowl for breakfast

    • Easy adjustable with pantry staples.
    • It is a filling, fiber-rich way to start your day.
    • Kids friendly.
    • It is an effortless way to pack whole foods with plant-based clean nutrients.
    • No need for fancy tools.

    In addition to the fantastic amount of Omega-3s in your seeds and walnuts, you have all the benefits that berries offer, including fiber, lots of antioxidants, and anthocyanins (also great for brain functions).

    ✅ Benefits of walnuts

    Walnuts are the top nut for brain health. That is because walnuts have a high concentration of Omega-3, DHA, which has been shown to improve cognitive performance and prevent age-related cognitive decline.

    Walnuts

    An excellent substitute for walnuts that also offers brain nourishing benefits are pumpkin seeds.

    In short, this smoothie bowl is an excellent bet on your brain health.

    If you choose to substitute Walnuts for Almonds or Hazelnuts, in turn, you still benefit from less age-related cognitive decline, generally associated with Vitamin E intake.

    💡 Tips

    If you don't love the crunchiness of raw chia seeds, just let them soak from 3-5 minutes while you blend the base ingredients of your smoothie bowl.

    It will make them softer and activate the seeds, making them easier to digest, and your body will absorb its nutrients better.

    I usually buy frozen organic berries, as they are significantly cheaper and don't lose their properties.

    Also, being frozen makes them readily available for smoothies, and you prevent them from rotting fast, as is commonly the case.

    mixed-Berries

    I only buy fresh berries when I want to eat them alone as a snack or on top of a smoothie bowl as fresh fruit. So on this bowl, we are using the kiwi for that.

    🍶 Substitutions

    Berries

    Use any organic berries you have. Since it is proven — raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries all work well. We are fans of blueberries smoothies.

    Seeds

    With this bowl, you will have a great source of essential omega-3s along with fiber. You can add other seeds such as poppy seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds. Work with what you have in your pantry!

    Flax seeds jar
    Flax Seeds Jar
    Chia seeds Jar
    Chia Seeds

    Other toppings

    You can add organic cacao powder or cacao nibs, coconut flakes instead of shredded coconut, or any other fresh soft fruit you can think of, such as apricots, peaches, or pineapple.

    You could even use the almond pulp leftovers from making almond milk in your energy power balls.

    Read on: 3-ingredient pineapple coconut smoothie »

    Sweetness

    If you want to naturally bring the sweetness up, add some agave syrup or maple syrup before serving.

    Thick Smoothie Bowl

    Another excellent way to add oats, healthy chia seeds, and antioxidant-packed blueberries is to make a lemon blueberry overnight oats recipe, which is great for making breakfast in advance.

    If you are in for the perfect Sunday brunch, why not add a delicious and effortless healthy banana bread, which needs only 10 minutes of prep time.

    ❓ FAQ

    How long does shredded coconut last?

    Shredded coconut is a versatile and tasty ingredient that can be used in many recipes, whether savory or sweet. As with most foods, it has a limited shelf life and will degrade over time. Though its exact expiration date depends on how it is stored, shredded coconut typically lasts 3 to 6 months on an unopened shelf. If kept in the refrigerator or freezer in an air-tight container or sealed bag after opening, shredded coconut can last as long as 12 months.
    The key to ensuring the longest possible shelf life for your shredded coconut is proper storage and handling:
    Store unopened packets of shredded coconut at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight;
    When opened, transfer any leftover shredded coconut into an air-tight container for refrigeration;
    To further increase the shelf life of your leftovers, consider vacuum sealing them before storing them in the refrigerator (make sure to release any trapped air, so you get a good seal);
    Avoid freezing unless absolutely necessary since this could lead to freezer burn and compromise both flavor and texture;
    Check often for signs of spoilage, such as moldiness or discoloration, before using any product past its expiration date;
    Lastly, always use clean utensils when scooping out what you need - don't dip your measuring cup directly into the packet!
    By following these simple steps whenever you open new packages of shredded coconut (or any other food item), you will ensure optimal freshness throughout its maximum lifespan!

    📚 More breakfast ideas

    Breakfast Fruit Bowl

    Homemade Granola

    Best Mango Smoothie

    Banana Strawberry Apple Smoothie

    Vegan Pineapple Strawberry Smoothie Recipe

    Carrot, Cucumber and Celery juice for hydration.

    ⭐ If you try this recipe, let us know! 💬 Leave a comment, rate it, and don't forget to tag us @ourplantbasedworld on Instagram. Cheers!

    📋 Recipe

    smoothie bowl

    How to Make a Thick Smoothie Bowl

    Gus
    This delicious Breakfast Smoothie Bowl is packed with nourishing Antioxidants and Omega-3srich ingredients to power your brain and replenish your body first thing in themorning.
    4.9 from 27 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 10 mins
    Total Time 10 mins
    Course Breakfast & Brunch, Snack
    Cuisine Healthy
    Servings 2 bowls
    Calories 476 kcal

    Equipment

    My favorite blender: BlendTec Brand..
    (affiliate link)
    Blender (affiliate link)
    stainless measuring spoons.
    (affiliate link)
    measuring spoons (affiliate link)

    Ingredients
     
     

    Base

    • 3 cups berries organic, frozen
    • 2 bananas medium, frozen
    • 4 tablespoons hemp seeds or plant-based protein powder (affiliate link)
    • 1 cup almond milk or any other plant-based milk

    Toppings

    • 1 tablespoons flax meal best if freshly ground
    • 2 tablespoons chia seeds best if soaked for 2-5 mins
    • ¼ cup walnuts or almonds, hazelnuts, pumpkin seeds

    Optional:

    • ¼ cup coconut shredded unsweetened
    • 1 kiwi sliced (or peach, pineapple)
    • 2 teaspoons maca powder for enhanced energy and stamina
    • 1 tablespoon Organic Protein Plant-Based Powder
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Directions
     

    • Add all base ingredients to a blender.
    • Blend until smooth.
    • Serve into two bowls.
    • Top the base mix with topping ingredients: the chia, walnut, coconut, flax, and your choice of sliced fruit.

    Video

    Notes

    Substitutions
    Berries: Use any organic berries you have. Since it is proven — raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries all work well!
    Seeds: With this bowl, you will have a great source of essential omega-3s along with fiber. You can add other seeds such as poppy seeds, pumpkin seeds, or sesame seeds. Work with what you have in your pantry!
    Other toppings: you can add organic cacao powder or cacao nibs, coconut flakes instead of shredded coconut, or any other fresh soft fruit you can think of, such as apricots, or peaches, or pineapple.
    Sweetness: Add agave or maple syrup for extra sweetness or extra dates. We like using dates because they have a ton of beneficial post-workout benefits.
    Nutrition facts are calculated without the protein powder.
    Adding the suggested protein powder adds 28 calories, 0 carbohydrates, and 5 grams of protein per serving.
    Vegan Clean Protein: if using the clean protein powder (affiliate link), add our 10% discount code OURPBWORLD10 at check-out to enjoy the benefit. (affiliate)

    Nutrition Facts

    Calories: 476kcalCarbohydrates: 67gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gSodium: 169mgPotassium: 690mgFiber: 19gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 192IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 285mgIron: 4mg
    Did you make this recipe?Tag @ourplantbasedworld on Instagram and Hashtag it #ourplantbasedworld so we can see what's cooking!!
    Nutrition Facts
    How to Make a Thick Smoothie Bowl
    Amount per Serving
    Calories
    476
    % Daily Value*
    Fat
     
    20
    g
    31
    %
    Saturated Fat
     
    2
    g
    13
    %
    Trans Fat
     
    1
    g
    Polyunsaturated Fat
     
    13
    g
    Monounsaturated Fat
     
    3
    g
    Sodium
     
    169
    mg
    7
    %
    Potassium
     
    690
    mg
    20
    %
    Carbohydrates
     
    67
    g
    22
    %
    Fiber
     
    19
    g
    79
    %
    Sugar
     
    35
    g
    39
    %
    Protein
     
    15
    g
    30
    %
    Vitamin A
     
    192
    IU
    4
    %
    Vitamin C
     
    16
    mg
    19
    %
    Calcium
     
    285
    mg
    29
    %
    Iron
     
    4
    mg
    22
    %
    * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
     
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    🌡️ Food safety

    • Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
    • Do not use the same utensils on cooked food that previously touched raw meat
    • Wash hands after touching raw meat
    • Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
    • Never leave cooking food unattended
    • Use oils with high smoking points to avoid harmful compounds
    • Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

    See more guidelines at USDA.gov.

    The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice. See our full Nutritional Disclosure here.

    Please note that some of the links here are affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through those links. I recommend all of the products listed because they are companies I have found helpful and trustworthy.

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Sarah James says

      October 21, 2021 at 5:16 pm

      5 stars
      What a delicious way to start the day, I like how you can add shredded coconut. Thanks for sharing.

      Reply
    2. sue says

      October 21, 2021 at 5:28 pm

      5 stars
      What a stunning color the berries make. I've got a collection of frozen berries in the freezer so this is happening asap.

      Reply
    3. Elaine Benoit says

      October 21, 2021 at 5:43 pm

      5 stars
      I found your recipe and I have all the ingredients, so I made this gorgeous smoothie bowl. It is excellent and I'd make this again. Hubby can in when I was eating it and said, "where's mine?" So, I had to make him one too. 🙂

      Reply
    4. Natalie says

      October 21, 2021 at 6:24 pm

      5 stars
      I made this bowl for breakfast this morning. It was delicious! I will definitely make it again. Even my son grabbed a spoon with me. Thanks!

      Reply
    5. Jeffrey says

      December 05, 2021 at 11:14 pm

      2 stars
      None of this says HOW to get that perfect thickness like it says in the title

      Reply
      • Gus says

        December 07, 2021 at 3:18 pm

        Hi Jerry, I wrongly assumed that providing the step-by-step instructions would answer the How question. I appreciate your feedback, and I have added a highlighted Pro-Tip box, with what is it, from the recipe instructions, that makes up the perfectly creamy texture of the smoothie bowl. Thanks again; feedback helps us improve. 🙂

        Reply
    6. Michele says

      January 16, 2022 at 6:19 pm

      5 stars
      This Thick Smoothie Bowl was delicious! Who know something so good for you would also taste delicious! Win-Win!

      Reply
      • Gus says

        January 16, 2022 at 6:39 pm

        You are right, Michele! that's how it rapidly became a favorite breakfast of ours!

        Reply
    7. Jacqueline Debono says

      January 16, 2022 at 7:54 pm

      5 stars
      What a delicious way to start the day. I usually make more liquid smoothie to drink but so want to try this thick smoothie bowl!

      Reply
    8. Jamie says

      January 16, 2022 at 8:23 pm

      5 stars
      This was a great way to start my morning! The smoothie bowl was so colorful and delicious!

      Reply
    9. Kristen says

      January 16, 2022 at 10:24 pm

      5 stars
      This smoothie was delicious - wonderfully thick just like the recipe said it would be.

      Reply
      • Gus says

        January 17, 2022 at 2:22 pm

        I am glad you liked it Kristen, stay tuned for more delicious breakfast recipes!

        Reply
    10. Toni says

      January 16, 2022 at 10:38 pm

      5 stars
      Absolutely delicious! I appreciate all the background on the ingredients too. Mine turned out thick and creamy.

      Reply
      • Gus says

        January 20, 2022 at 9:14 pm

        Thanks for sharing Toni!

        Reply
    11. Jacqui says

      June 05, 2022 at 10:20 pm

      5 stars
      Frozen bananas for thick smoothies are such magic! This one is so tasty and I make it all the time for breakfast now.

      Reply
    12. Beth says

      June 21, 2022 at 8:23 am

      5 stars
      My kind of breakfast! Loving the vibrant colors in this smoothie bowl.

      Reply
    13. Ieva says

      June 21, 2022 at 9:23 am

      5 stars
      Smoothie bowls are my favourite summer breakfast! Great idea to top it with coconut! Absolutely loved the texture and flavour it brought!

      Reply
      • Gus says

        June 21, 2022 at 7:26 pm

        That's great Ieva! thanks for your review!

        Reply
    14. Amanda Wren-Grimwood says

      June 21, 2022 at 9:26 am

      5 stars
      I have lots of bags of half used berries in my freezer so this is a perfect recipe to use them. I 'll enjoy choosing the toppings too. What a treat!

      Reply

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