Quick 3-Ingredient Apple and Banana Smoothie
This apple and banana smoothie is creamy, naturally sweet, and ready in about five minutes. No added sugar or yogurt, just fruit and milk blended until silky.
It’s the kind of drink that feels like a treat but is wholesome enough for breakfast. If you have an apple and a ripe banana, you’re minutes away from a tall, cold glass.
Why This Smoothie Works
Ripe banana brings all the sweetness you need, so there’s no reason to add honey or dates. The apple gives it a fresh, crisp note that keeps the drink from feeling heavy.
It blends up thick and velvety in seconds, and you can use whatever milk you have on hand. Simple fruit, simple texture, and nothing to get in the way.
Ingredients
- 1 medium apple, cored and chopped: any sweet variety like Gala or Fuji. No need to peel.
- 1 ripe banana: the spottier the peel, the sweeter the smoothie.
- 3/4 cup milk: whole, oat, almond, whichever you like.
- A handful of ice cubes (optional): for a thicker, colder drink.
Variations / Substitutions
- Swap the apple for a pear: it gives a similarly mellow sweetness.
- Use a frozen banana: skip the ice for an even creamier texture.
- Add a spoonful of nut butter: almond or peanut butter adds protein and makes it more filling.
- Use apple juice instead of milk: for a brighter, fruitier smoothie.
- Spice it up: a pinch of cinnamon or fresh ginger works well.
For another quick fruit smoothie, try the 2-Minute Mixed Berry Smoothie.
How to Make Apple and Banana Smoothie
Step 1: Blend the Smoothie
Combine the chopped apple, banana, 3/4 cup milk, and a handful of ice in a blender. Blend on high for about 30 seconds, until the mixture is completely smooth and no chunks remain. If it seems too thick for your liking, add a splash more milk and blend again for a few seconds.
Step 2: Pour and Serve
Pour the smoothie into a glass and drink it right away, while it’s still cold and frothy. The natural sweetness of the fruit comes through cleanly, so no added sugar is needed.
Tips for the Best Smoothie
- A very ripe banana (with brown spots) is key; it sweetens the drink without any extra sugar.
- Freeze your banana ahead of time if you want an extra thick, almost milkshake-like texture.
- A spoonful of rolled oats can add a little more staying power if you’re having this for breakfast.
- The ice helps aerate the smoothie and makes it frothy, so don’t skip it unless you prefer a thinner drink.
Scale it up for more servings:
| Servings | Apple | Banana | Milk |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 medium | 1 | 3/4 cup |
| 2 | 2 medium | 2 | 1 1/2 cups |
| 4 | 4 medium | 4 | 3 cups |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without milk?
Yes, replace the milk with water or apple juice, but the smoothie will be less creamy.
Can I use a green apple?
You can, but it will be quite tart. Add a pitted date or a drizzle of maple syrup to balance the tartness.
Do I need to peel the apple?
No, the peel blends in smooth and adds fiber. Peel it only if you really dislike bits of skin.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It separates quickly, so it’s best enjoyed immediately. If you must, store it in the fridge for up to an hour and stir well before drinking.
Apple and Banana Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the chopped apple, banana, milk, and ice in a blender. Blend on high for 30 seconds until smooth, adding a splash more milk if the mixture is too thick.
- Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
