Bananas in smoothies are pretty standard, right? Bananas are a common smoothie base because their creamy texture and natural sugars help thicken and sweeten single-serving blends (a medium banana is about 100-120g). Well, we're all about switching things up and shaking off the routine.
Maybe you're out of bananas, or just craving something new, since bananas typically add natural sweetness and a creamy thickening quality to smoothies. We're no strangers to those smoothie moments when bananas can't join the party.
We've tried plenty of substitutes, experimenting with all sorts of fruits and non-fruits. There's a whole bunch of creative ways to keep that smoothie game strong.
Forget bananas; let's talk about the alternatives we've discovered that bring their own flair. We've had lots of fun mixing it up, and truth be told, it's often tastier than the usual banana blend.
Ready to stir things up with us? After plenty of blends and sips, here's our list of the top five banana substitutes.
5 Banana Substitutes for Smoothies
Here are some tasty ideas for when you find yourself fresh out of bananas, since bananas often contribute natural sweetness and a creamy texture that thickens smoothies, or explore banana pepper alternatives for spicy recipes. A medium banana (about 100-120g) usually provides those sweetening and thickening qualities in a single smoothie serving.
For swaps that also help with wrapping or steaming, consider banana leaf alternatives for cooking.
1 - Avocado
Avocado is our green go-to when bananas make a vanishing act. Creamy, smooth texture makes blending easy. Ripe Hass avocados blend especially creamy.
Avocado gives smoothies a rich touch, with about 15 grams of mostly monounsaturated fat per medium avocado that lends a creamy mouthfeel.
We like that it's nutrient-rich. It brings healthy fats and keeps us feeling full.
Flavor stays neutral and pairs well with other fruits. No overpowering taste here.
Just blend half an avocado for every banana used.
Texture won't change much. Taste stays mild.
Avocado balances out acidity if citrus fruits show up. It's like they're meant to be together.
Ripe avocados blend best; for a different avocado idea, try air fryer avocado toast ideas for quick breakfasts for a crispy appetizer.
Enjoy them anytime, no guilt.
2 - Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt, our protein-packed pal, steps up when bananas can't. It thickens any smoothie with ease, especially when using strained plain Greek yogurt which adds body without extra liquid.
Creamy and tangy, it gives a distinct spin, supplying roughly 10 grams of protein per half cup (plain Greek yogurt) that boosts satiety.
We mix half a cup for each missing banana. This keeps texture smooth and lush.
Adding Greek yogurt means adding probiotics, and what Greek yogurt is and how it's made explains why yogurt-based sauces pair well with easy side dishes for Greek chicken dinners.
We enjoy the slight zing it contributes. Pair it with sweet fruits for balance.
This treat needs no fancy intro. Craving more alternatives?
Click our Greek yogurt substitutes guide for a tasty twist. Get that smoothie on track.
Exploring all options opens up new blends.
3 - Oatmeal
Ever swap oatmeal for bananas? It's seriously a thing, since oats contribute soluble fiber (beta-glucan) that thickens and slows digestion.
We dig its hearty style. Oatmeal thickens smoothies perfectly.
Just use about half a cup per missing banana. Simple as that.
Adds a mellow, nutty kick. Rolled oats give the best texture compared to instant oats when you want a smoother mouthfeel. We think it brings a soft touch to fruity blends.
Slows down sweetness so your smoothie's personality shines. Oatmeal offers fiber galore.
Pretty satiating, really. Easy on digestion too.
Feels comforting in a glass. Curious about more swaps?
oatmeal swaps for a delicious breakfast, or try instant-pot oatmeal with apples & cinnamon for cozy oatmeal ideas.
We're all in on this banana-free ride. Hop aboard the oatmeal train.
4 - Coconut Cream
Coconut cream has a luscious texture, higher in fat than coconut milk which gives it extra richness in smoothies. Coconut cream typically contains about 20-24% fat versus coconut milk's roughly 5-15%, which is why it produces a noticeably richer mouthfeel. It makes the thickest smoothies.
We blend two tablespoons when replacing a banana. Expect a light tropical twist.
Taste stays mellow.
Works nicely with berries and chocolate.
This option adds healthy fats. Keeps us satisfied between meals.
Rich in nutrients and easy to find. No overpowering coconut flavor here.
It adds a velvet touch.
We love its smooth consistency with other fruits. It jazzes up plain ol' blends.
Need more substitute ideas? See coconut milk substitutes in curry for coconut alternatives with savory uses.
Get ready for rich, creamy smoothies without bananas.
For swaps that work in both sweet and savory recipes, see coconut cream swaps for sweet and savory recipes.
5 - Chia Seeds
Chia seeds dance with personality, forming a gel when soaked that thickens liquids and adds body; learn about chia seeds substitutes for different textures.
Use one tablespoon to sub one banana; soak it in 2-3 tablespoons of liquid for 5-10 minutes to form a gel before blending.
Chia seeds soak up liquid, adding volume. They bring fiber, keeping us full.
These tiny seeds mix well with fruits. They work magic in fruity blends.
They make smoothies thick and rich. Nutrients?
Packed to the brim. Move aside, bananas.
Chia seeds step up naturally.
Curious about seeds? Check anise seed substitutes for spice swaps.
Transform drinks with ease. Enjoy their light, nutty essence.
A spoonful is all it takes. The power of chia is real.
Keep it simple. Keep it chia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, avocado can create a creamy texture and provide healthy fats, but it has a milder flavor compared to banana.
Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a tangy flavor, making it a great alternative to banana in smoothies while also boosting protein content.
Oatmeal can add thickness and a subtle flavor to your smoothie while also providing fiber and a natural sweetness.
Coconut cream will add rich creaminess and a coconut flavor, though it's much richer than banana and can make smoothies more indulgent.
Chia seeds absorb liquid and create a gel-like consistency, which can help thicken your smoothie and provide a boost of fiber and omega-3s.
Several plant-based spreads and softened oils can mimic butter's melt and browning behavior in grilled cheese sandwiches; see butter alternatives for grilled cheese. Swapping vegetable oil with applesauce, mashed banana, or avocado can reduce fat while preserving moisture in brownies; learn more at healthier oil swaps for brownies.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.
