This Peanut Paradise Tropical Smoothie Copycat is a healthy version of the Tropical Smoothie Cafe's favorite. This creamy dream tastes just like a Payday candy bar in a smoothie. It really is delicious!
At home, we replicate this popular smoothie using clean and healthy ingredients- so you control the quality. It is important to use natural peanut butter to avoid inflammatory hydrogenated oils and other unnecessary ingredients. We also swap turbinado sugar for the natural sweetness of dates.
Don't forget to check out our collection of copycat recipes for more delicious smoothie inspiration, including the Bahama Mama Tropical Smoothie and Tropical Smoothie Peanut Butter Cup. For healthy breakfast copycats, try the Starbucks Egg White Bites recipe or Nekter Acai Peanut Butter Bowl.
Before you begin blending, we encourage you to take a moment to set healthy intentions. To learn more about this practice, visit our free guide on using intentions and affirmations.
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Ingredients
Peanut Butter: Peanuts are one of the most heavily pesticide-sprayed crops. This is one reason we choose to always opt for organic peanut butter. Another is the hydrogenated oils and ultra-processed additives in conventional peanut butter. Be sure to grab organic, natural peanut butter!
Greek Yogurt: While Tropical Smoothie Cafe uses non-fat yogurt, we prefer organic vanilla bean Greek yogurt for its rich texture and healthy fats. Full-fat yogurt contributes to a creamier smoothie.
Medjool Dates: Sweet, natural, and packed with potassium, fiber, and antioxidants, Medjool dates are the perfect replacement for added sugars.
Vanilla Protein Powder: We love Truvani for its clean, plant-based ingredients, but a high-quality vanilla whey protein is equally effective.
See the recipe card for a full list of ingredients with quantities.
Substitutions and Variations
Sweeteners: If you don't have dates, choose a different sweetener like maple syrup, raw honey, or even a sprinkle of coconut sugar. For a sugar-free option, try pure monk fruit or organic stevia.
Nut Butter: Try almond butter, sunflower butter, or cashew butter if you're in the mood for a change. They offer a unique taste compared to the classic Peanut Paradise Smoothie.
Chocolate Touch: A bit of cacao powder makes for a chocolatey smoothie. If you're feeling indulgent, toss in some dark chocolate chips.
How to Make a Peanut Paradise Tropical Smoothie
Step 1: Soak the dates in warm water for around 10 minutes. Once they're pliable, drain any excess water. Slice them down the middle and remove the pits.
Step 2: Pour the peanut butter, scoops of protein powder, yogurt, dates, and almond milk into your high-speed blender. Process until you achieve a smooth blend.
Step 3: Introduce the frozen banana chunks to the mixture. Continue to blend until the banana is fully integrated.
Step 4: If you want the smoothie thicker, add more ice or a frozen banana. If it's too thick, add more milk, a little at a time. Taste and adjust the flavors or sweetness little by little to your liking.
Hint: Don't forget to pause and scrape down the sides in between blends. Peanut butter tends to stick, and we want every bit of that deliciousness in every sip.
Expert Tip
If using a standard blender, always start by blending your liquid ingredients with the softer ones first. This includes your almond milk and soaked dates. Adding these before the frozen bananas and ice ensures a more efficient blend, preventing any strain on your blender's motor. A high-speed blender like the Vitamix works best!
Recipe FAQ's
The original Peanut Paradise Tropical Smoothie typically contains peanut butter, non-fat Greek yogurt, frozen bananas, turbinado sugar, and protein powder.
Yes, many tropical smoothie recipes, including the Peanut Paradise, often include added sugars. Turbinado sugar is commonly used. It adds a caramel-like sweetness to the smoothie. However, we still prefer to use natural sweeteners like dates or raw honey!
The protein content in a peanut butter smoothie can vary based on the ingredients used. Typically, a smoothie made with peanut butter, Greek yogurt, and added protein powder can contain between 20 and 30 grams of protein per serving. This makes it an excellent choice for a high-protein meal or snack. The exact amount will depend on the quantities and types of protein powder and Greek yogurt used.
More Tropical Smoothie Cafe Copycat Recipes
Looking for other smoothie recipes like this? Try these:
Do you love the Peanut Paradise Tropical Smoothie? Give it a 🌟 review and let us know how it went in the comments below! Don't forget to subscribe for the latest healthy recipes in our weekly newsletter. Do you love copycat smoothies? Try our version of the Tropical Smoothie Avocolada or the Beach Bum Tropical Smoothie copycat!
Recipe
Peanut Paradise Tropical Smoothie Copycat
Equipment
- Measuring spoons and cup
- Silicone spatula
- Tall glass
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 large frozen banana
- ½ cup Greek yogurt full-fat for creaminess
- 2 Medjool dates pitted
- 1 cup almond milk or water adjust for desired thickness
- Optional: ice cubes
Instructions
- Soak Dates: If the dates are hard, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain.
- Blend Main Ingredients: In a blender, combine the peanut butter, protein powder, Greek yogurt, soaked dates, and almond milk/water. Blend until smooth.
- Add Frozen Banana: Incorporate the frozen banana and blend again until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency and Flavor: For a thicker smoothie, add ice cubes. Taste and adjust the flavor as needed, perhaps with more peanut butter for richness or an additional date for sweetness. For a thinner consistency, add more milk.
- Serve: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Natalie says
This is really good and easy to make!
Helen at the Lazy Gastronome says
This is so delicious. I used frozen banana and had a delicious milk shake!! Having another tomorrow.
Natalie Perry says
Wonderful!
Nora says
That was one creamy treat! So good! Thanks for this fantastic smoothie recipe!
Natalie Perry says
You are welcome 🙂
Andréa says
This looks like such a delicious and healthy smoothie. I can't wait for summer to come by!
Natalie Perry says
It is delicious. Let us know how you enjoy it!
DK says
Great recipe - I love peanut butter smoothies! And thanks for all of the great nutritional information on your post!
Natalie Perry says
Welcome! 🙂