Peanut butter is the main flavour

This shake uses enough peanut butter to be recognisable without becoming a glass of diluted nut paste. Cocoa adds bitterness and a chocolate note, while banana supplies the frozen structure. Smooth peanut butter is the most practical choice; crunchy varieties leave pieces that may be enjoyable with a spoon but awkward through a straw.

Use a peanut butter you like on its own. Salted and unsalted versions both work, but a heavily sweetened product changes the balance. Stir separated jars before measuring so the ratio of oil to peanut solids remains consistent.

Cocoa needs liquid contact

Dry cocoa can cling to the blender lid and form little powdery pockets. Mixing it with a small amount of oat drink first is an easy way to avoid that. It also lets you use a modest amount effectively rather than adding more powder because the first spoonful never mixed properly.

Frozen banana should be sliced, not frozen whole with the peel on. Small pieces move more easily and help keep the shake cold without extra ice. If the drink tastes too bitter, check both cocoa and peanut butter before adding more syrup. A slightly riper banana may be the better adjustment on the next batch.

What you'll need

220 ml unsweetened oat drink
30 g smooth peanut butter
120 g peeled banana, frozen in slices
2 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp maple syrup
1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Let's make it

Mix cocoa with two tablespoons of the measured oat drink to make a smooth paste. Stir the peanut butter in its jar before measuring.
Put the remaining oat drink, cocoa paste and peanut butter in the blender and blend briefly.
Add frozen banana, maple syrup and vanilla. Blend until smooth, checking that no peanut butter remains stuck above the liquid line.
Pour into two glasses and serve cold. If needed, thin with a tablespoon of oat drink rather than adding a large handful of ice.

Make it your own

Use a soy drink if preferred, checking that soy is suitable for the person drinking it.

Sunflower-seed butter gives a different version, but do not assume it is safe for a peanut allergy without checking cross-contact information.

Keeping it fresh

Serve fresh for the thickest texture. Store peanut butter and oat drink according to their labels. Prepared banana slices can be frozen in a sealed container for up to one month for best quality.