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This creamy coffee smoothie has transformed my morning routine, providing both my caffeine fix and breakfast in one delicious glass. Rich with bananas and almond butter, it fuels me for hours while satisfying my coffee cravings in a nutritious way.
I created this recipe during a heatwave last summer when I couldn't bear the thought of hot coffee but still needed my caffeine. Now my teenagers request it before school, especially on exam days when they need sustained energy.
Ingredients
- Frozen bananas: Create the creamy base and add natural sweetness
- Cold brew coffee concentrate: Delivers smooth caffeine without bitterness
- Unsweetened almond milk: Lightens the texture while keeping calories low
- Medjool dates: Provide caramel like sweetness with beneficial fiber
- Almond butter: Adds protein and healthy fats for staying power
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the coffee flavor with aromatic warmth
- Cinnamon: Complements coffee while regulating blood sugar
- Ice: Chills everything to refreshing perfection
- Chocolate shavings: Optional but make it feel like a special treat
How To Make Coffee Smoothie
- Gather Ingredients:
- Begin by measuring all ingredients and ensuring bananas are properly frozen for optimal thickness. Quality cold brew makes a significant difference here.
- Blend The Base:
- Add bananas cold brew almond milk dates almond butter vanilla and cinnamon to your blender. Process on medium speed for 30 seconds then increase to high until perfectly smooth about 1 minute. If mixture seems too thick add additional almond milk one tablespoon at a time.
- Add Ice And Final Blend:
- Once the base is silky smooth add two handfuls of ice. Pulse several times to break down the ice then blend on high for 30 seconds until the smoothie reaches a thick milkshake like consistency.
- Serve With Style:
- Pour immediately into tall glasses. Dust lightly with additional cinnamon and sprinkle with chocolate shavings for a café quality presentation.
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The Medjool dates are my secret weapon in this smoothie. I discovered their magic when my daughter accidentally added them to our first batch instead of using honey. The rich caramel notes paired perfectly with the coffee creating a naturally sweet drink that felt indulgent without any refined sugar.
Make Ahead Tips
This smoothie base can be prepped in advance for busy mornings. Combine all ingredients except ice in a blender container and refrigerate overnight. In the morning simply blend with fresh ice for 30 seconds. The flavor actually improves as the coffee and dates infuse the mixture overnight.
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Ingredient Substitutions
If bananas aren't your thing half an avocado provides similar creaminess with a more neutral flavor. For a nut free version substitute sunflower seed butter for almond butter and coconut milk for almond milk. Maple syrup works well in place of dates though start with just one tablespoon and adjust to taste. Espresso shots can replace cold brew for a more intense coffee flavor use 2 shots cooled to room temperature.
Nutritional Boosters
Transform this smoothie into an even more substantial meal by adding nutritional powerhouses. A scoop of unflavored collagen peptides blends seamlessly while adding 9g of protein. For plant based protein a tablespoon of hemp seeds provides complete protein without altering the flavor. A handful of spinach disappears visually while adding vital nutrients and flaxseeds introduce omega3 fatty acids with minimal taste impact.
Seasonal Variations
Adapt this smoothie throughout the year by incorporating seasonal elements. Summer strawberries add antioxidants and beautiful color. Fall brings pumpkin opportunities add 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice for an autumn treat. Winter calls for warming spices increase cinnamon and add a pinch of cardamom. Spring mint freshens the flavor with bright notes perfect for warmer mornings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a regular blender for this smoothie?
Yes, any blender will work, though high-speed blenders like Vitamix yield a smoother consistency.
- → Can I substitute cold brew coffee with regular coffee?
Yes, you can use chilled regular coffee instead of cold brew for a slightly less intense flavor.
- → What can I use instead of Medjool dates?
You can substitute Medjool dates with honey, maple syrup, or a teaspoon of sugar to adjust sweetness to taste.
- → Can I make this smoothie dairy-free?
Absolutely! This smoothie is already dairy-free when made as suggested with almond milk.
- → How can I make this smoothie thicker?
To thicken the smoothie, use less almond milk or add more frozen banana or ice.
- → What toppings can I add to this smoothie?
Popular toppings include chocolate shavings, a dusting of cinnamon, granola, or a drizzle of almond butter.