Description
This Wake Up Smoothie is just the right amount of coffee, cocoa, and banana goodness. It’s the perfect way to jumpstart your morning! Plus, breakfast in 5 minutes? Sign me up! Add a scoop of your favourite chocolate protein powder or nut butter to add more protein.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsweetened milk (oat, almond, or cow’s milk)
- 1 large frozen banana, broken into chunks
- 2 teaspoons instant espresso powder*
- 1 tablespoon cocoa or cacao powder
- 4 ice cubes
- 1 tablespoon hemp seeds (optional)
- 1–2 pitted dates (optional, for sweetness)**
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- 1–2 tablespoons nut butter (peanut, almond, etc.)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the milk, frozen banana chunks, instant espresso powder, cocoa or cacao powder, ice cubes, hemp seeds (if using), pitted dates (if using), and vanilla extract (if using) into a blender. Add optional protein powder or nut butter now, if desired.
- Blend: Secure the lid and blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more milk; if too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a little more frozen banana.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the smoothie and add more dates or another sweetener if desired. Blend again briefly.
- Serve: Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Notes
- Espresso Powder: Instant espresso powder provides concentrated coffee flavor. You can substitute 1/2 cup chilled strong brewed coffee in place of 1/2 cup of the milk if preferred.
- Frozen Banana: Using a frozen banana is key to a thick, creamy, cold smoothie without needing excessive ice. Peel and chop the banana before freezing for easier blending.
- Sweetness: Dates provide natural sweetness. Adjust the number of dates (or use maple syrup, agave, or another sweetener) to your preference, or omit for a less sweet smoothie.
- Milk: Use any unsweetened milk you prefer – oat, almond, soy, dairy, etc.
- Add-ins: Hemp seeds add protein and healthy fats. Protein powder or nut butter increases protein content significantly. Chia or flax seeds can also be added.
- Storage: Smoothies are best enjoyed immediately after blending.