My Smoothie Topping Staples for Ultimate Glow & Energy
The Everyday Smoothie Bowl Toppings I Always Keep Stocked
A few years ago, I took a life-changing trip to the Philippines — a place filled with breathtaking nature, vibrant colors, and some of the freshest food I’ve ever tasted. One morning there, after a swim in crystal-clear waters, I was served a smoothie bowl so beautiful it looked like art: creamy, colorful, and topped with various textures and flavors.
I was instantly hooked. Before flying home, I made sure to pick up a few hand-carved wooden bowls from a local artisan (you can check out Balikbayan Handicrafts). This simple but meaningful souvenir turned my smoothie bowls at home into a daily ritual of connection, creativity, and nourishment.
Since then, making smoothie bowls has become one of my favorite ways to start the day. They are colorful, nutrient-dense, and loaded with texture and flavor. I especially enjoy crafting lower-sugar versions, and one of my go-to recipes is a creamy avocado kale smoothie bowl (see the recipe below ). It’s rich and satisfying, with just enough natural sweetness from a banana—no need for added sugars, berries, or even monk fruit.
Over time, I’ve curated a short list of healthy toppings that I always keep in my fridge. These simple add-ons turn any smoothie bowl into a complete, satisfying, and holistic meal.
Here’s what you’ll always find stocked and ready in my fridge:
1. Hemp Seeds
Tiny but mighty, hemp seeds are rich in plant-based protein, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. I sprinkle them generously for a boost of creaminess and a gentle nutty flavor.
2. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are fiber powerhouses that help with digestion and keep me feeling full for hours. When they hit a moist smoothie bowl, they soften just enough while still giving that satisfying, slight crunch.
3. Unsweetened Coconut Flakes
Light, tropical, and naturally sweet without any added sugars. I love the texture and hint of coconut flavor they bring. Plus, they provide healthy fats that support brain function and satiety.
4. Unsweetened Cacao Nibs
These little pieces of raw cacao add a deep chocolatey bite without the sugar crash. They’re packed with antioxidants, magnesium, and even a little natural caffeine for a subtle energy lift.
5. Bee Pollen
Bee pollen is nature’s multivitamin, loaded with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. I sprinkle a teaspoon over my bowls for an earthy sweetness and an immune-supporting punch. (Tip: Ensure you’re sourcing clean, local bee pollen!)
6. Pure Nut Butter
Whether it’s almond, peanut, cashew, hazelnut, or pistachio butter, a dollop of pure, unsweetened nut butter adds healthy fats, extra protein, and that irresistible creamy swirl that melts into the smoothie. Just one spoonful makes a bowl feel extra indulgent.
7. Homemade Nutty Granola
Store-bought granola can be sneaky with hidden sugars and unhealthy seed oils, so I love making a simple homemade batch every couple of weeks — usually a mix of oats, nuts, seeds, coconut oil, pure nut butter or tahini, and a touch of cinnamon. It’s crunchy, hearty, and perfect for layering on top.
8. Goji Berries
Goji berries bring a pop of bright, tart-sweet flavor and are bursting with antioxidants, vitamin C, and even a bit of protein. I love their chewy texture mixed into the creaminess of a smoothie bowl.
9. Sesame Seeds
Tiny but mighty, sesame seeds are packed with calcium, magnesium, and healthy fats. They add a subtle crunch and a delicate, slightly nutty taste that complements both fruity and chocolatey bowls.
10. Flax Seeds
Flax seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans, which have antioxidant properties. I love adding a teaspoon or so to my bowls for an extra dose of heart-healthy fats and digestive support. They blend seamlessly into the texture of a smoothie bowl and provide an earthy flavor.
Bonus Tip: If you're using homemade nutty granola that already includes ingredients like flax seeds, sesame seeds, or coconut flakes, feel free to skip adding them separately as toppings. This way, you can customize your smoothie bowl to your preference while keeping it simple and minimizing repetition. Less is sometimes more, especially when it comes to packing your bowl with nourishing goodness!
A few tips for keeping these toppings fresh:
Refrigerate seeds and nuts to keep them fresh and prevent rancidity.
Choose unsweetened versions to avoid hidden sugars.
Buy in small batches if you can for optimal freshness and nutrition — fresh ingredients = better taste + better nutrition!
Use airtight containers to store your seeds, nuts, and granola. This helps protect them from moisture, air, and light, which can degrade their nutrients and flavor.
Opt for whole seeds over pre-ground varieties. Whole seeds like flax and chia retain their nutrients much longer than pre-ground versions. You can grind them just before using for maximum freshness.
Label and date your ingredients when storing seeds, nuts, and homemade granola. This helps you track freshness and avoid using anything past its prime.
Freeze excess portions if you buy in bulk or make granola in large batches. Freezing helps maintain freshness for a longer period without compromising their nutritional value.
These toppings not only make smoothie bowls more beautiful and Instagram-worthy, but they also turn them into well-rounded, deeply nourishing meals that support energy, digestion, skin health, and longevity.
They’re just as delicious and beneficial when sprinkled over yogurt bowls or warm oatmeal — perfect for adding texture, flavor, and a boost of nutrition to any breakfast.
🌿 Creamy Avocado Kale Smoothie Bowl (Serves 2)
A low-sugar, nutrient-packed start to your day — times two!
Smoothie Base Ingredients:
1 ripe avocado
1 banana
1–2 cups frozen chopped kale (no need to destem)
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional, for an extra protein boost)
1 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk
Optional: a few ice cubes for a thicker, more refreshing texture
💡 Adjust to Taste:
Prefer a spoonable, soft-serve-like bowl? Use less milk and a handful of ice. Like it a bit more drinkable? Add an extra splash of plant milk until you reach your ideal consistency.
Topping Ideas (Pick 3–5 per bowl):
1–2 tbsp hemp seeds
1–2 tsp chia seeds
1–2 tbsp unsweetened coconut flakes
1–2 tsp raw cacao nibs
1–2 tsp bee pollen
1 tbsp pure nut butter (almond, cashew, peanut, etc.)
2–4 tbsp homemade nutty granola
1–2 tbsp goji berries
1–2 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions:
Blend all smoothie base ingredients until thick and creamy.
Pour into two bowls.
Add your favorite toppings and enjoy immediately!
✨ Tip: Store toppings like seeds and granola in the fridge for lasting freshness and optimal nutrient protection.
Final Thought
Whether you're just starting your smoothie journey or you're deep in the superfood game, I'd love to know — what toppings can you not live without? Hit reply or share in the comments so we can keep inspiring each other. 🌿✨