Cacao Nibs Smoothie Bowl Recipe

Some mornings call not for a cold smoothie but for something warm, comforting and just a little indulgent—enter the warm cacao smoothie bowl recipe. This isn’t your typical frozen blend; instead, creamy almond milk, almond butter, gluten-free rolled oats and raw cacao creamer are blended and warmed on the stove to create a thick, silky bowl.

The idea is simple but powerful: instead of ice, you apply heat, turning the blend into a cozy breakfast or snack that feels like a dessert but supports your nutrition goals. Packed with healthy fats from almond butter, fiber from oats, and antioxidant-rich raw cacao, it’s a deeply satisfying option for cooler mornings or whenever you want a bowl with substance.

Because the ingredient list skips dairy, wheat flour and refined sugars (when you use pure maple syrup as the sweetener), the bowl naturally qualifies as gluten-free and dairy-free—ideal for clean-eating routines. Topped with chopped almonds, sliced banana, coconut chips and cacao nibs, it brings in texture, color and crunch.

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Cacao Smoothie Bowl

Recipe Details

Yield: 1 serving
Active Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Cacao Smoothie Bowl Ingredients

For the smoothie

• 2 tablespoons Cacao Creamer
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• ½ cup gluten-free rolled oats
• 1 banana, peeled
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

For the toppings

• Chopped almonds
• Sliced bananas
• Coconut chips
• Cacao nibs
• Chia seeds

How to Make a Cacao Smoothie Bowl

1. Add all smoothie ingredients to a blender and process until smooth.
2. Pour into a stock pot and warm on medium heat; bring to a gentle boil.
3. Stir constantly, until smoothie has thickened, then pour into a bowl.
4. Add your favorite toppings and serve.

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Cacao Smoothie Bowl Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per serving (recipe yields 1 serving). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 smoothie bowl
Calories	≈ 400 kcal
Protein	≈ 10 g
Carbs	≈ 55 g
Sugar	≈ 20 g
Fiber	≈ 9 g
Fat	≈ 18 g

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Smoothie Bowl Variations & Tips

• Sweetener swap: Use maple syrup or coconut nectar instead of honey to keep the bowl vegan-friendly.
• Nut-free alternative: Swap almond butter for sunflower-seed butter and use oat milk instead of almond milk for a nut-free version.
• Protein boost: Stir in a scoop of plant-based protein powder or a tablespoon of hemp hearts before warming for added protein and texture.
• Texture adjustment: For a thicker “porridge” style, reduce the almond milk slightly and increase the oats by ¼ cup; for thinner consistency, add more almond milk as you warm.
• Warm carefully: When heating on the stove, stir constantly on medium heat until the mixture thickens—this prevents scorching and ensures a smooth base. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

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Best Smoothie Bowl Pairings

• Fresh berries or sliced banana: Add a side of berries or banana for brightness that complements the cacao richness.
• Dairy-free vanilla yogurt: A spoonful adds creaminess and tang, rounding out the bowl’s flavors.
• Roasted almond or walnut clusters: For added crunch and nutty depth on the side or as extra topping.
• Hot herbal tea (mint or ginger lemon): A warm beverage that complements the cozy-bowl vibe and stays light.
• Dark chocolate square (70%+ cocoa): For a little extra indulgence that matches the cacao profile without overloading sweetness.

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When to Make a Smoothie Bowl

• Chilly-morning breakfasts: Perfect when you want something warm, satisfying and quick before heading out the door.
• Post-work-out recovery snack: The oats and nut butter provide fuel and fullness when you’re wrapping up a session.
• Brunches with a friend: Serve it in shallow bowls, topped beautifully, for a relaxed weekend get-together.
• Comfort food moments: When you’re craving something soothing but still aligned with your clean-eating goals, this bowl fits the bill.
• Gluten-free / dairy-free menus: When feeding someone with dietary restrictions, this bowl is an easy hit that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

Recipe credit: Angela Gaines