2010_03_18-milkshake.jpgIf you've visited this site in the past couple of months, you've read about one-ingredient ice cream, made from frozen bananas that have been whipped furiously into a smooth, dreamy dessert. Well, the same science applies to milkshakes, and it led us to this: a thick, creamy, chip-studded shake that's entirely ice cream-free (i.e. OK for breakfast).

Milkshakes for breakfast! Why not? This is, in many respects, a smoothie. Plus, it has protein from peanut butter and no added sugar. Besides the chocolate chips. But pancakes (sometimes) have chocolate chips. And pancakes are definitely breakfast.

Of course, this is also a lovely dessert, healthier than a regular milkshake but still sweet and satisfying. We've drunk this before 9 a.m. and after 9 p.m., and it has tasted good both times.

We should note that this makes a pretty large milkshake. And with two tablespoons of peanut butter and a quarter cup of chocolate chips, it's certainly not low calorie. It is, however, big enough to split.

The frozen bananas give the shake its body, so while we think the other ingredients make a delicious combination, you can add whatever flavors you want. Chocolate syrup, extra vanilla, or nothing at all.

Frozen Banana-Peanut Butter-Chocolate Chip Milkshake
makes one large shake or two small ones

2 frozen bananas (peel them before you freeze them!), cut into chunks
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
1 cup milk (skim works fine)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup chocolate chips

Blend bananas, peanut butter, milk, and vanilla in a blender until smooth. Add the chocolate chips at the end and pulse or blend briefly until they are chopped and incorporated.

*Note: We used an immersion blender, which worked just fine.

Related: Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Ingredient Ice Cream

(Image: Elizabeth Passarella)