10+ Best Smoothie Bowl Toppings (Health-Boosting!)
Smoothie bowls are super thick smoothies that are served in a bowl and eaten with a spoon. One of the best parts about smoothies bowls are the toppings. From granola to sliced fruit to other health boosters, this article shares the best smoothie bowl toppings.
Health Boosting Smoothie Bowl Toppings
No matter the flavor of the smoothie bowl you make, it’s always nice to top your smoothie or açaí bowl with some delicious toppings.
Here are some of my favorite toppings made with healthy ingredients that add texture and nutrition. If all else fails, you can always just add some small pieces of your favorite fruits to the top of your smoothie bowl.
1. Granola
Granola will give you the most “crunch satisfaction” out of all the toppings. Depending on what brand you buy or what recipe you follow, you will get a great range of texture.
Some granolas are like really crunchy cookies, others have the firmness of nuts. You can also find grain-free versions too.
I like to make my own Air Fryer Homemade Granola, but you can also buy it too. Try to find versions that don’t have too much added sugar.
Product recommendation: Purely Elizabeth Ancient Grain Granola (gluten-free)
2. Chia seeds
Chia seeds look like poppy seeds, and give you the same sort of mouthfeel.
These tiny seeds won’t give you a large crunch, especially if they are stirred in. To notice them most, make sure and use them last, on top off all your other toppings. You only need 1-2 teaspoons per smoothie bowl.
They’re also really healthy! Chia seeds are a great source of healthy fats and even some plant-based protein too.
Try making this Dark Chocolate Smoothie Bowl and then sprinkle some chia seeds on top for extra nutrition. You can also use flax seeds instead of chia seeds.
Product recommendation: Navitas Organics Chia Seeds
3. Dried coconut flakes (or dried shredded coconut)
Shredded coconut is the type used for macaroons, and it is a softer texture on a smoothie bowl than when it is baked into cookies.
If you desire more of a crunch, definitely look for bags labeled as flakes. These are usually wider and more like chips than fluffy shreds, and have a definitive crunch to them.
Coconut is one of the most nutrient-dense foods and one of my favorite foods. A little goes a long way, though, so just add a little sprinkling to the top of your tropical smoothie bowl (try this Mango Strawberry Banana Smoothie recipe).
Product recommendation: Bob’s Red Mill Unsweetened Flaked Coconut
4. Bee pollen
Bee pollen is a great topper for smoothie bowls. Most bee pollens have a freeze-dried type texture.
There is some research showing that bee pollen may help reduce allergies, but you want to start out using just a tiny bit to see how you respond to it. If bee pollen works for you, then it makes a great smoothie bowl topping!
If you have seasonal allergies, you may also like my article on the best natural antihistamine foods.
Please note that for strict vegans, bee pollen may not be appropriate.
Product recommendation: Greenbow Organic Bee Pollen
5. Hemp seeds
Hemp seeds have a nutty flavor that is fairly neutral. They are chewy without having a large crunch.
Small like chia seeds, they can give you just a bit of texture if that’s what you are after. One tablespoon offers about 50 calories, 3 grams of protein, and a ton of micronutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
I often use hemp seeds in the base of my smoothies, but you can also use them to top smoothie bowls as well. They are pretty too and an overall great option for your smoothie recipes.
I also love to make Homemade Vanilla Hemp Milk for a great dairy-free alternative.
Product recommendation: Navitas Organic Hemp Seeds
6. Cacao nibs
Cacao nibs are firm and crunchy and are perfect to put on top of smoothie bowls.
If you’ve ever eaten espresso beans (chocolate covered or not!), you’ll recognize the texture here. They are a great replacement for chocolate with so many health benefits. You’ll get a hint of chocolate flavor with a crunchy bite.
I will always recommend adding cacao nibs on top of your smoothies or smoothie bowls as a great addition for chocolate lovers. The best part is that they’re healthy too!
Product recommendation: Terrasoul Superfoods Raw Organic Cacao Nibs
7. Nut butter (or seed butter) drizzle
If you are craving something smooth and getting the flavor in every bite, then selecting a nut butter is your best choice! Nut and seed butters add healthy fat and a little protein per serving.
Choose from peanut butter, almond butter, pumpkin seed butter, or sunflower seed butter.
For the optimal drizzle texture, let your nut butter or seed butter come to room temperature before drizzling on top of your healthy smoothie bowls.
Product recommendation: Artisana Organics Raw Almond Butter
8. Sliced fruit like banana (or berries)
Pick your favorite fruit for both flavor and texture. Sliced fresh fruit adds extra sweetness to your smoothie bowl without any added sugars.
Choose from sliced banana or strawberries, or just use a handful of mixed berries, blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries. If you have tropical fruits on hand, feel free to top your smoothie bowl with passionfruit, mango, pineapple, or papaya.
9. Goji berries
Goji berries are dried like raisins, but are often a bit tougher or chewier.
They are savory, almost sour at times. They will give you something to chew on if you aren’t one to want to drink your meals. It is also easier to find these unsweetened as that seems to be how they are usually dried.
Product recommendation: Navitas Organics Goji Berries
10. Raisins
Raisins are budget-friendly and easy to find. Look for unsweetened varieties, and give different varieties a try like golden raisins.
If you are able to find them in bulk or in clear packages, you can see if you are getting really plump ones that will give you the perfect sweetness.
Product recommendation: California Organic Raisins
Basic Smoothie Bowl Recipe
It’s not hard to transform a basic smoothie recipe into a smoothie bowl recipe. Just decrease the liquid you put into the blender by about half of what is called for in a regular smoothie recipe.
A basic template for making smoothie bowls includes:
- ½ cup milk of choice (you can also use coconut water)
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup frozen berries
- Toppings of choice
You’ll need to use a blender with a tamper to help make sure the ingredients get well blended. I love my Vitamix Explorian!
More Healthy Smoothie & Smoothie Bowl Recipes
- Mango Banana Chocolate Smoothie Bowl
- Dragon Fruit Smoothie
- Kale Berry Chocolate Smoothie
- Creamy Detox Smoothie
Or, check out my entire index of dairy-free smoothies.
Don’t Miss These Smoothie Resources
Conclusions
Smoothie bowls are the perfect meal option when you are craving something cool and sweet but aren’t a fan of drinking your meals. Smoothie bowls have the same great smoothie flavors, but are made thicker to be able to eat with a spoon. Customize your flavors and textures by selecting a few of the topping ideas in this article.
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About the Author: Carrie Forrest has a master’s degree in public health with a specialty in nutrition. She is a top wellness and food blogger with nearly 10 million annual visitors to her site. Carrie has an incredible story of recovery from chronic illness and is passionate about helping other women transform their health. Send Carrie a message through her contact form.
