Who says you need a banana to make a deliciously creamy peanut butter smoothie? If you’re looking for a smoothie that’s rich in protein, naturally sweetened, and free from bananas, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a smoothie that’s both satisfying and nutritious—perfect for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a midday pick-me-up. ✨🥜


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How to Make a Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie Without Banana
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Almond Milk or milk of choice
- 1/4 Cup Peanut Butter
- 1/2 Cup GF Oats
- 1/4 Cup Maple Syrup or Honey
- 1/2 Teaspoon Sea Salt
- 1 Cup Ice

Step-By-Step Instructions
Blend the Base: In a blender, combine almond milk, peanut butter, oats, maple syrup, and sea salt.
Add Ice: Add ice cubes to the blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
Adjust Consistency: If the smoothie is too thick, add more almond milk; if too thin, add more oats.
Serve: Pour into a glass and top with your choice of toppings.

Check out the recipe video on Instagram!
Why This Recipe is Gluten-Free
This smoothie is naturally gluten-free when made with certified gluten-free oats and other gluten-free ingredients. It’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Ingredient Substitutions & Customizations
One of the best parts about smoothies is how flexible they are. Whether you’re working around food allergies, dietary preferences, or simply what you have in your pantry, here are plenty of ingredient swaps to keep your peanut butter smoothie banana-free, delicious, and fully customizable.
Milk Substitutes
Whether you’re dairy-free, nut-free, or just out of almond milk, there are plenty of options.
- Oat Milk: Creamy, naturally sweet, and great for nut-free diets.
- Soy Milk: Higher in protein than other plant milks—perfect for a post-workout smoothie.
- Coconut Milk: Adds a rich, tropical flavor (go for the carton, not canned, for better blending).
- Dairy Milk: Totally works if you’re not dairy-free—just keep in mind it changes the flavor slightly.
- Water: In a pinch, plain water works too! The smoothie will be a bit thinner, but still tasty.
Pro Tip: If you want a thicker smoothie without milk, use a mix of water and ice and boost creaminess with oats or chia seeds.
Peanut Butter Alternatives
No peanut butter? No problem. Try using peanut butter powder or any of these:
- Almond Butter: A slightly sweeter, milder flavor. Still creamy and high in healthy fats.
- Cashew Butter: Buttery and ultra-smooth. Great for a more neutral flavor profile.
- Sunflower Seed Butter: The best nut-free alternative. It has a distinct flavor but works beautifully in this smoothie.
- Tahini: For a slightly bitter, savory edge—pairs well with maple syrup for a grown-up flavor combo.
- No Nut/Seed Butter? Try using a few tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt or coconut cream for richness without the nuts.
Sweetener Swaps
Customizing the sweetness is key for personal taste—and for keeping it refined sugar-free.
- Maple Syrup: This is what I use in this recipe! Vegan-friendly and rich in flavor (my go-to!).
- Honey: Not vegan, but more floral and slightly thicker. Great if you want a more traditional sweetness.
- Dates: Blend 1–2 pitted Medjool dates for natural sweetness and extra fiber.
- Stevia or Monk Fruit Drops: For a low-carb or keto option—use sparingly to avoid bitterness.
- No Added Sweetener? If you’re using a flavored protein powder or sweetened milk, you may not need anything extra.
Oat Replacements
If you’re oat-free or just want something different, here are a few texture-boosting options:
- Chia Seeds: Soak first, or blend straight in. Adds fiber and omega-3s.
- Cooked Quinoa: Sounds weird, but it blends smoothly and adds protein!
- Frozen Cauliflower: Adds thickness with almost zero flavor—trust me, you won’t taste it.
- Unsweetened Coconut Flakes: Adds texture and a subtle coconut flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Smoothie
- Use Natural Peanut Butter: Opt for peanut butter with no added sugars or oils.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the smoothie before serving and add more maple syrup if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work great depending on your flavor preferences and dietary needs.
Is this smoothie vegan?
Totally—just make sure to use maple syrup instead of honey and a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat.
Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
You can! Store it in the fridge in an airtight jar for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or stir before drinking.
Can I add protein powder?
Definitely. A scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder adds extra staying power, especially post-workout.
How can I make this smoothie thicker?
Add more oats or toss in a few frozen avocado chunks or a spoonful of Greek yogurt (non-dairy if needed).
Is this peanut butter smoothie good for weight loss?
It can be! It’s high in protein and healthy fats which help keep you full. Just watch portion sizes and sweeteners if you’re counting calories.
Can I skip the oats?
Yes, but the oats help with creaminess and make it more filling. If you skip them, use less liquid or add something like chia seeds or frozen cauliflower.
Does this smoothie taste sweet without banana?
Yes, thanks to maple syrup or honey. You can always adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Can I freeze this smoothie?
Yes. Freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge, or blend into popsicles!
What’s the best milk to use in this smoothie?
Unsweetened almond milk is light and lets the peanut butter flavor shine. But oat milk, soy milk, or dairy milk work too.
Can kids drink this smoothie?
Totally! Just make sure there are no nut allergies. You can also reduce the salt or sweetener if needed.
Why is there salt in this smoothie?
Salt enhances the peanut butter flavor and balances the sweetness. You can skip or reduce it, but it makes a surprisingly big difference.
Enjoy!
And there you have it—your new go-to peanut butter smoothie that doesn’t rely on bananas to be thick, creamy, and straight-up delicious. Whether you’re sipping this on the way to work, powering through a mid-afternoon slump, or fueling up post-yoga, this smoothie is all about easy, feel-good nourishment. Play around with the swaps, make it yours, and don’t forget the dark chocolate drizzle (because balance, right?).
Have the sweetest day & tag me on Instagram when you make this recipe! @entirelyemmy 🥜✨

Peanut Butter Smoothie Without Banana
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Almond Milk or milk of choice
- 1/4 Cup Peanut Butter
- 1/2 Cup Oats
- 1/4 Cup Maple Syrup or Honey
- 1/2 Teaspoon Sea Salt
- 1 Cup Ice
Instructions
- In a blender, combine almond milk, peanut butter, oats, maple syrup, and sea salt. Add ice cubes to the blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
- If the smoothie is too thick, add more almond milk; if too thin, add more oats. Pour into a glass and top with your choice of toppings!