Banana Coffee Smoothie Recipe – Dates, Almonds & Cocoa Blend

Last Updated on 1 month by Neha Deshmukh

Banana Coffee Smoothie Recipe – Dates, Almonds & Cocoa Blend

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… a little chaotic. I’m always looking for a quick, delicious, and energizing breakfast that doesn’t involve a ton of fuss. And honestly? This Banana Coffee Smoothie is my absolute go-to. It’s creamy, chocolatey, has a lovely hint of coffee, and keeps me going until lunchtime. I first made this when I was desperately needing a morning pick-me-up, and it’s been a staple ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another smoothie recipe. It’s a little slice of happiness in a glass! It’s perfect for busy mornings, a post-workout boost, or even a healthy dessert. Plus, it’s packed with good stuff – potassium from the banana, healthy fats from the almonds, and a little caffeine kick from the coffee. It’s a win-win!

Ingredients

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

• 1 large frozen banana (about 150g)
• ½ cup water (120ml) – adjust to your desired consistency
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder (about 2g)
• 1 cup 2% milk or dairy-free milk (240ml)
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (about 10g)
• 6 almonds (about 8g)
• 5 soaked dates (about 40g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Frozen Banana – The Key to Creaminess

Seriously, don’t skip freezing the banana! It’s what gives this smoothie that incredible, ice-cream-like texture. I usually peel and slice my bananas before freezing them – makes things so much easier later.

Dates – Natural Sweetness & Caramel Notes

I love using dates as a natural sweetener. They add a lovely caramel-like flavor that complements the coffee and chocolate beautifully. Make sure to soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to soften them up before blending.

Almonds – For Healthy Fats & Texture

Almonds add a subtle nutty flavor and a bit of healthy fat to keep you feeling full and satisfied. You can use whole almonds, or even almond butter for an extra creamy smoothie.

Cocoa Powder – Rich Chocolate Flavor

I prefer unsweetened cocoa powder, so I can control the sweetness level. But feel free to use sweetened if that’s what you have on hand!

Coffee – The Energy Boost

Instant coffee works perfectly here, but you can also use a shot of espresso if you’re feeling fancy. Adjust the amount to your liking – I like a subtle coffee flavor, but you can definitely add more if you need a stronger kick.

Milk Options – Dairy vs. Dairy-Free

I often use 2% milk, but this smoothie is equally delicious with almond milk, oat milk, or any other dairy-free alternative. It really just comes down to personal preference!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get blending!

1. First, gather all your ingredients. It just makes the process smoother, trust me.
2. Now, add the frozen banana chunks, water, instant coffee powder, milk, soaked dates, cocoa powder, and almonds to your blender.
3. Blend everything together until it’s beautifully smooth – usually about a minute or so. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk or water. If it’s too thin, add a few more frozen banana slices.
4. Pour your gorgeous smoothie into a glass.
5. Dust with a little extra cocoa powder and garnish with chocolate-covered espresso beans if you’re feeling extra fancy. (My kids love this part!)

Expert Tips

• For a thicker smoothie: Use more frozen banana.
• For a thinner smoothie: Add more liquid (milk or water).
• Don’t overblend: Overblending can make the smoothie warm and lose its texture.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

Vegan Adaptation

This is already pretty close to vegan! Just make sure you’re using a plant-based milk.

Spice Level Adjustment (Optional – Cinnamon/Cardamom)

My friend, Priya, loves adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to her smoothie for a warm, comforting flavor. It’s so good, especially during the colder months.

Sweetness Level Adjustment

If you prefer a less sweet smoothie, reduce the number of dates. You can always add a tiny bit of maple syrup or honey if needed, but I usually find the dates are perfect.

Quick Breakfast Modification

I sometimes add a tablespoon of rolled oats to make it even more filling and keep me going for longer.

Variations with Protein Powder

My husband adds a scoop of vanilla protein powder to his smoothie after his workouts. It’s a great way to boost the protein content!

Serving Suggestions

This smoothie is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with:

• A slice of whole-wheat toast with avocado
• A handful of berries
• A sprinkle of granola

Storage Instructions

This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before drinking.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Can I use a regular blender for this smoothie?

Yes, you can! But a high-powered blender will give you a smoother result. If your blender is struggling, try adding the liquid first and blending in stages.

What if my banana isn’t fully frozen?

It won’t be as thick and creamy. You can add a few ice cubes to help thicken it up, but it won’t be quite the same.

Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Peel and freeze the banana, soak the dates, and measure out the other ingredients. Then, just blend everything together in the morning.

Is it possible to reduce the coffee flavor?

Absolutely! Start with ½ teaspoon of instant coffee powder and adjust to your liking.

What other nuts can I substitute for almonds?

Walnuts, cashews, or even pecans would work well.

Can I add spinach or kale to this smoothie for extra nutrients?

Definitely! A handful of spinach or kale will blend right in and add a boost of vitamins and minerals. You might not even taste it!