Inspired by the classic ice cream dessert, this Breakfast Banana Split is the ultimate dessert for breakfast! It's a fun, healthy treat made with yogurt, fresh berries, and granola, and it comes together in no time.
If you’ve been following along, you know I love a good dessert-inspired breakfast. First I made Tiramisu Chia Pudding and Peanut Butter Cup Smoothies, then I made festive Birthday Cake Overnight Oats, and now we’re ready to dive into this delicious breakfast banana split recipe!
Inspired by the classic, old-fashioned ice cream treat, this breakfast banana split turns a nostalgic favorite into something you can actually enjoy first thing in the morning.
Instead of ice cream, this version uses creamy non-dairy yogurt as the base, topped with fresh berries, crunchy granola, cacao nibs, and a drizzle of chocolate spread or nut butter. You can also mix protein powder into the yogurt to make it extra satisfying and help support your protein goals. It’s naturally sweet, filling, and comes together in just a few minutes.
Whether you’re in the mood for something fun, need a quick breakfast, or want a healthier way to enjoy dessert, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s easy to customize with whatever you have on hand, making it just as perfect for busy mornings as it is for slow weekends or a post-workout meal that still feels like a treat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy: Comes together in just 5 minutes, with no cooking involved.
- Balanced treat: Not loaded with sugar — this is a balanced breakfast that still feels like a decadent dessert.
- Versatile: Easily switch up the toppings based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for.
- Dairy-free: Made with non-dairy yogurt, making it naturally vegan and perfect for anyone avoiding dairy.
- High-protein: Using protein powder, high-protein non-dairy yogurt, and nut butter helps make this a protein-packed breakfast that keeps you full longer.
- Beautiful presentation: Impress guests or treat yourself to this stunning breakfast any day of the week.
Ingredients
You only need a handful of ingredients to make a breakfast banana split — it really is that simple!
- Banana: Choose a perfectly ripe banana. You don’t want one that’s overly ripe and soft, as it will be harder to slice and can be too sweet and mushy.
- Non-dairy yogurt: Creates that creamy, ice-cream-like base we’re going for. Coconut, almond, or soy yogurt all work well. I like the Silk and So Delicious brands.
- Vegan vanilla protein powder (optional): Mixed into the yogurt for a protein boost. I like Ora Organic. Feel free to use another flavor for a fun twist — ice-cream-inspired options like chocolate, strawberry, or caramel are great options. Skip it if you prefer a lighter option.
- Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and/or blackberries add a juicy, refreshing contrast. You could also use chopped pineapple and cherries for a more classic banana split vibe.
- Granola: Adds crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy yogurt. Use any variety you like — granolas with nuts, seeds, or chocolate are especially tasty. I recommend choosing a low-sugar option to keep the sugar content down. Cereal also makes a great topping.
- Cacao nibs: Add extra crunch and a hint of chocolate flavor. If you don’t have them, chopped dark chocolate or nuts are also delicious.
- Chocolate spread or nut butter: Chocolate SunButter or chocolate hazelnut butter adds a rich, indulgent feel similar to chocolate syrup on a traditional banana split. Peanut or almond butter offers a nutty twist that ties everything together. All of these also provide a boost of healthy fats and a bit of protein.
Find the full ingredient list with measurements in the recipe card below.
How to Make a Breakfast Banana Split
Whip up a banana split for breakfast in a matter of minutes!
Step 1: Slice the banana in half lengthwise, then remove the peel and place the banana halves on a plate. If using protein powder, mix it with the yogurt in a small bowl. Spoon the yogurt mixture over the center of the banana halves.
Step 2: Top with berries, granola, and cacao nibs. If your chocolate spread or nut butter is thick, add about a tablespoon to a small bowl and microwave for 10-20 seconds until drizzle-able. Drizzle over the banana split and enjoy!
Chloe's Tips
- Slice the banana before peeling: The peel helps hold the banana together, making it less slippery and easier to cut cleanly. A sharp knife works best.
- Use a thick yogurt: Cocojune coconut yogurt, Greek-style vegan yogurts, and some almond or soy-based yogurts have an extra thick texture. Thin yogurts will spread too much on the plate, making the presentation messier. Stirring in protein powder also helps thicken the yogurt.
- Boost the protein: Focus on high-protein ingredients like soy yogurt or non-dairy yogurt with added pea protein, high-protein granola with nuts or seeds, or a drizzle of nut butter. Mixing plant-based protein powder into the yogurt adds an extra protein boost too. Prioritizing protein helps keep you full longer and supports stable blood sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
More Dessert-Inspired Breakfasts
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Thank you!
–Chloe
Breakfast Banana Split
By Chloe MartinIngredients
- 1 ripe banana
- ½ cup non-dairy yogurt (such as coconut, almond, or cashew-based yogurt; plain or vanilla)
- 2 tablespoons vegan vanilla protein powder (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and/or blackberries)
- 2 tablespoons granola
- 1 teaspoons cacao nibs
- 1 tablespoon chocolate spread or nut butter of choice (such as Chocolate SunButter, chocolate hazelnut butter, peanut butter, or almond butter)
Instructions
- Slice the banana in half lengthwise before peeling, then remove the peel and place the banana halves on a plate, curving outward from each other.
- In a small bowl, combine the non-dairy yogurt and protein powder (if using). Stir until smooth. If not using protein powder, skip this step.
- Spoon the yogurt mixture over the banana halves in a large dollop in the center. Top with berries, granola, and cacao nibs.
- Add the chocolate spread or nut butter to a small bowl and microwave for 10-20 seconds to melt until drippy. If your nut butter is already runny, skip this step. Drizzle it over the banana split and enjoy.
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