Prep the fruit. Slice a banana and freeze it ahead of time for best texture. If your dates are firm, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes to soften.
Add ingredients to the blender. Start with 1 cup of milk, avocado, frozen banana, cocoa powder, dates or sweetener, vanilla, and salt.
Blend until smooth. Start on low, then increase to high for 30–45 seconds. If it’s too thick, add more milk in small splashes.
Taste and adjust. For deeper chocolate flavor, add another teaspoon of cocoa.
For sweetness, add a bit more maple syrup or another date.
Customize the texture. For “pudding” vibes, keep it thick. For a classic smoothie, thin it out with extra milk or a few ice cubes.
Serve immediately. Pour into a chilled glass. Add toppings if you like a little crunch or extra chocolate intensity.