Banana Cashew Milkshake Recipe – Authentic Indian Bournvita Drink

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Banana Cashew Milkshake Recipe – Authentic Indian Bournvita Drink

Hey everyone! If you grew up in India, chances are you have a serious soft spot for that classic Bournvita drink. It’s pure nostalgia in a glass, right? I remember my grandma always making it for me after school, and this milkshake is my attempt to recreate that comforting flavor, but with a little extra deliciousness thrown in. It’s creamy, dreamy, and seriously hits the spot – especially on a warm day. Let’s get blending!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any banana milkshake. It’s a little slice of childhood, a hug in a glass, and a super quick treat when you need something sweet and satisfying. Plus, the cashew nuts add a lovely richness and subtle flavor that takes it to the next level. And honestly, who doesn’t love a milkshake that comes together in under 5 minutes?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this magic:

• 1 whole ripe banana
• 4-5 whole raw cashew nuts or almonds
• 1 tablespoon bournvita/maltova/chocolate horlicks
• 2 cups frozen milk chunks

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients – a few little tips to make sure your milkshake is perfect.

Banana Selection & Ripeness

The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your milkshake will be! Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots. They’re at their peak sweetness then. I usually use spotty bananas that I was going to discard otherwise – perfect for reducing food waste!

Cashew vs. Almonds – Flavor Profiles

You can use either cashews or almonds in this recipe. Cashews will give you a super creamy, slightly sweet flavor. Almonds add a bit more of a nutty, earthy note. I personally prefer cashews for that extra indulgence, but feel free to experiment!

Malt Drink Powder (Bournvita/Maltova/Horlicks) – A Nostalgic Indian Touch

This is where the magic happens! Bournvita, Maltova, or Horlicks – they all bring that distinct, comforting malt flavor that’s so beloved in India. If you only have one on hand, don’t worry, they’re pretty interchangeable.

Frozen Milk Chunks – Achieving the Authentic Texture

Okay, this is key. Using frozen milk chunks (instead of ice) is what gives this milkshake that incredibly thick, creamy, and authentic texture. It’s how they make it at those little roadside stalls in India! You can easily freeze milk in ice cube trays or small containers. Whole milk works best for richness, but you can use lower-fat milk if you prefer.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make this milkshake! It’s seriously simple.

1. Chop the ripe banana and add it directly to a blender. No need to be fancy here!
2. Add 4-5 whole raw cashew nuts or almonds to the blender.
3. Include 1 tablespoon of your malt-based drink powder (Bournvita, Maltova, or Horlicks).
4. Add 2 cups of frozen milk chunks to the blender.
5. Blend until everything is beautifully smooth.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness with a couple of dates or a drizzle of honey if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overblend! Once it’s smooth, stop. Overblending can make the milkshake a little too liquid.
• For extra chill: Pop your blender jug in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before blending.
• Adjust consistency: If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk. If it’s too thin, add a few more frozen milk chunks.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Banana Cashew Milkshake

Easy peasy! Just swap the frozen milk chunks for frozen coconut milk or cashew milk. It’s just as creamy and delicious. My friend, Priya, swears by using frozen cashew cream for the ultimate vegan indulgence.

Spice Level Adjustment – Cardamom or Nutmeg

A tiny pinch of cardamom or nutmeg adds a lovely warmth and complexity. My mom always adds a pinch of cardamom – it’s so fragrant!

Sweetness Variations – Dates vs. Honey

Dates add a natural caramel-like sweetness and a bit of fiber. Honey is a classic sweetener and adds a floral note. Use whichever you prefer, or even a little maple syrup!

Summer Cooling Adaptations – Adding Ice

If you don’t have frozen milk chunks on hand, you can use ice, but it will dilute the flavor slightly. Start with a few ice cubes and add more until you reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

This milkshake is perfect on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it extra special:

• Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of cocoa powder.
• With a snack: Serve alongside some biscuits or a slice of cake.
• For breakfast: A quick and easy breakfast option (don’t judge!).

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this milkshake is best enjoyed immediately. It tends to separate and lose its texture if stored. But if you must store it, you can keep it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to an hour, but you’ll need to re-blend it before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Can I use fresh milk instead of frozen milk chunks?

You can, but the milkshake won’t be as thick and creamy. You’ll need to add a lot of ice, which will dilute the flavor. Frozen milk chunks are highly recommended for the authentic texture.

What is the best type of banana to use for this milkshake?

The riper, the better! Cavendish bananas are readily available and work great.

Can I make this milkshake ahead of time?

Not really. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

Is it possible to adjust the thickness of the milkshake?

Absolutely! Add more frozen milk chunks for a thicker milkshake, or a splash of milk for a thinner one.

What are some other malt drink powder alternatives?

If you can’t find Bournvita, Maltova, or Horlicks, you could try a tablespoon of cocoa powder with a teaspoon of malt extract. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll get you close.

Can I add any fruits to this milkshake?

Definitely! A handful of strawberries, mangoes, or blueberries would be delicious additions.