Easy Tropical Smoothie Peanut Butter Cup Recipe

If you’re a peanut butter cup fan (who isn’t!?), you need to try this chocolate peanut butter smoothie recipe. It’s inspired by the Tropical Smoothie Peanut Butter Cup smoothie that you’ll find at Tropical Smoothie Cafe, but way cheaper and lower sugar. And bonus! No long waits required.

This tasty smoothie is the perfect blend of peanut butter and chocolate with a thick, smooth texture that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Get ready to blend up a creamy smoothie that is sure to become a new favorite- your taste buds will thank you!

If you love smoothie recipes, make sure to also check out my Sunrise Sunset and Kiwi Quencher recipes!

Overhead shot of smoothie peanut butter cup copycat smoothie topped with chopped chocolate chips.

Why You’ll Love It

It’s nutritious and delicious! Chocolate and peanut butter is a classic flavor combination that never seems to go out of style. This milkshake-esque smoothie hits the spot when you’re looking for something to satisfy a chocolate craving but you want something with less added sugar.

It’s easy to make: With just five ingredients, this smoothie recipe couldn’t be simpler. Simply toss everything in a blender and blend until smooth. You’ll have a delicious and satisfying snack or breakfast in no time (keep reading for tips to turn it into a meal!).

It’s versatile: While this recipe is delicious as written, it’s also very versatile. You can add in other ingredients like protein powder, spinach, or yogurt to customize the recipe based on what you need and prefer. Check out the recipe variations section for my favorite tips and ideas.

It’s a crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re making this one for yourself or your family, it’s going to be a hit. Who doesn’t love a creamy smoothie that actually tastes like a milkshake?

Ingredients for peanut butter cup recipe laid out on a countertop and labeled.

Smoothie Ingredients

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this Tropical Smoothie chocolate peanut butter cup recipe:

  1. Cocoa powder is what gives this smoothie its rich, chocolatey flavor. It’s also rich in antioxidants, fiber, and minerals such as iron and magnesium.
  2. Creamy peanut butter is a staple ingredient in tons of smoothie recipes, and for good reason. It’s rich in protein and healthy fats to help keep you feeling full and satisfied. If you need a PB swap, feel free to use any other nut butters like almond or cashew butter.
  3. Frozen banana is the secret to creating the thick and creamy texture of this smoothie. Bananas are also a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Use ripe bananas that have been peeled, sliced, and frozen for at least 2 hours prior to making the smoothie (or use store-bought).
  4. Milk also helps to make that perfect creamy consistency. You can use any type of milk you prefer, whether it’s dairy milk or dairy-free options like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. If you’re lactose intolerant or vegan, plant-based milk is a great option.
  5. Maple syrup brings out the rich, chocolatey flavor in this smoothie and adds just the right amount of sweetness.
  6. Ice: Adding ice to your smoothie is optional, but it’s a great way to create a thicker, creamier texture and give your smoothie a milkshake-like consistency. If you prefer an even creamier smoothie, you can skip the ice and use frozen milk cubes instead.

Make It A Balanced Meal Smoothie

As is, this peanut butter cup smoothie recipe works great as a filling and delicious snack or mini meal, but it’s probably not enough for a full meal. If you want to swap this smoothie in for breakfast, here’s what you can do:

  • Add a protein: My fave protein sources to add to this smoothie would be a 5 ounce container of Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, a serving of your favorite protein powder (whey protein or plant-based works!), or have some protein on the side (for example: a couple of hard boiled eggs).
  • Optional- add a veggie! Yes, you heard me right! If you want to add a little more volume and more fiber, you can throw in a handful of spinach or frozen cauliflower.
Close up shot of smoothie peanut butter cup copycat smoothie topped with chopped chocolate chips.

Variations and Recipe Tips

  • Add more or less liquid to reach your desired consistency. If you’re having trouble getting it to be the thickness that you want, add some ice and blend well!
  • Add more fruit like strawberries or blueberries.
  • Use any nut butter that you like: almond butter, sunflower seed butter, cashew butter, or hazelnut butter all work great.
  • Add a boost of fiber and healthy fats with flax seeds or chia seeds.
  • Make it a smoothie bowl by cutting the liquid in half and adding Greek yogurt. You can top with shaved chocolate, your favorite nuts and seeds, granola, and fresh fruit.
  • Top with melted peanut butter, whipped cream and mini chocolate chips for major milkshake vibes!

If you try this delicious drink, be sure to tag me on Instagram and leave a review below!

Other Recipes You’ll Love:

Detox Island Green Smoothie

Kale and Mushroom Egg Bites (Starbucks-Inspired)

An overhead shot of the Tropical Smoothie Peanut Butter Cup smoothie, topped with chopped peanut butter cups.

Tropical Smoothie Peanut Butter Cup Recipe

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Course: Breakfast, Snack
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Calories: 364kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 small banana sliced and frozen
  • 1 cup milk dairy or any plant-based
  • 1.5 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp peanut butter
  • 1/2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup ice cubes optional

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high until creamy and smooth.

Notes

Add more or less liquid to reach your desired consistency. If you’re having trouble getting it to be the thickness that you want, add some ice and blend well!
Note that nutrition information will vary based on which type of milk you choose to use.

Nutrition

Calories: 364kcal | Carbohydrates: 64g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 167mg | Potassium: 1013mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 47g | Vitamin A: 564IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 373mg | Iron: 1mg

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Meet Jamie

I’m a Registered Dietitian and I’ve been exactly where you are, right now. The all or nothing dieting, the constant food guilt, the scale obsession, absolutely no balance with food…. Sound familiar? 

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