The Secrets to Making a Smoothie Bowl

… That Lets Your Toppings Float Not Sink

I recently read about a chef who doesn’t understand the smoothie bowl trend. Why not just drink a smoothie or have a warm bowl of oats, is what I believe she said. I was horrified and then sad because she’s clearly never had a good smoothie bowl. One that mimics the thick, creamy texture of nice cream and is topped with an assortment of crunchy toppings, fruit or some drippy nut butter. The summer version of that bowl of oats, that instead of hugging you with its warmth, flows through you like a cool breeze.

I thus feel it is my duty to share the tricks and tips to making the perfect smoothie bowl. You can use the tips to come up with your own flavour combinations or try one of three smoothie below bowls to experience that cool breeze I was on about.

1. Freeze your Fruit (or veg)

The fruit or vegetables (if that’s your vibe) that go into the smoothie bowl must and I cannot stress this enough MUST be frozen. That freeze is what creates a cold, thick and smooth smoothie bowl. If you want to know how to freeze your produce correctly (because there is a correct way) please refer to this guide.

2. Less is more When it comes to Liquid

Everyone who understands why smoothie bowls are still around knows that what makes a smoothie bowl a smoothie bowl is its thickness. You want your toppings to sit on top that delicious mound of frozen goodness not sink to the bottom of a watery mess. To achieve that consistency, you need less liquid than you would in a smoothie. A half a cup is the magic number for me (all the recipes below use just ½ cup). I suggest starting with a half cup and gradually adding more if it’s not blending. On that note, always pour in your liquid first – it helps things blend better. You can use milk – dairy/plant, juice or water.

3. Know your ratios

The base ratios for creating a single serve smoothie bowl of proper thickness is as follows:

½ Banana – the banana is what gives it the creaminess and the sweetness. If you do not like bananas, you can use ½ an avocado (yes it must be frozen). It’s surprisingly neutral tasting and gives your smoothie bowl a nice creaminess. Another more marmitey option is steamed and then frozen cauliflower – which I’ve tried over here. It has become the go to for people who want a smoothie with less sugar and carbs.

1 –1 ½ Cups frozen fruit – this can be one item or a medley of items. It does not include greens added into the smoothie such as spinach, kale or herbs. Those are your extras and do not need to be frozen.

4. A good add in, can add to the nutrition of your smoothie bowl

I like to have a smoothie bowl as a meal, usually breakfast. As such, I like it to include add ins that add to the nutritional profile.

Protein – The most important is protein. It makes it a more substantial meal that keeps me fuller for longer. You can choose any protein powder you like. Personally, I like getting either a neutral or vanilla flavoured one – which allows me to choose the overall flavour of a smoothie instead of being stuck with a chocolate smoothie bowl no matter what fruit I’m using. Based on your dietary preferences you can use a whey based or plant-based protein powder. I’m currently using this protein powder which is made just from pea protein.

Seeds – chia seeds and hemp seeds are another popular addition. They do give you some protein as well as some omega fatty acids (and chia seeds are apparently energy boosters). 1 tbsp of either is my preferred ratio.

Nut/Seed Butter – this adds to the protein content, the taste and gives you some good fats. The nut or seed butter you choose is up to you and 1 tablespoon is plenty per serving.

Superfood powders – if you want to take things up a couple hundred wellness notches add in a superfood powder. My favourites are acai berry, maca, a mushroom mix and ashwagandha. I follow the recommended doses on the packs which is usually 1-3 teaspoons.

Cocoa – if you don’t have a chocolate protein powder and want something chocolatey, a tablespoon of cocoa powder does the trick.

5. Accessories make the smoothie bowl

A smoothie bowl is never fully dressed without the toppings. If you’re going to leave the toppings, you may as well add more liquid, pour it into a glass and call it a smoothie.

I tend to go with granola but if I don’t have granola, I’ll chop up some nuts and seeds. Other toppings include fresh fruit, coconut flakes, cacao nibs and drippy nut butter or chocolate if you’re feeling indulgent.

You’re now ready to make the perfect smoothie bowl!