- Rinse and quarter fresh figs, removing tough stems if necessary.
- Combine figs, sliced banana, coconut milk, and cinnamon in a blender.
- Blend until smooth, adding more coconut milk to adjust the consistency.
- Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
- Calories:411 kcal25%
- Energy:1719 kJ22%
- Protein:4 g28%
- Carbohydrates:88 mg40%
- Sugar:63 mg8%
- Salt:88 g25%
- Fat:8 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Fig & Banana Smoothie Recipe – Easy Cinnamon Coconut Blend
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a quick, healthy, and delicious breakfast or snack. And honestly? This Fig & Banana Smoothie is a total game-changer. I first whipped this up on a particularly warm morning, craving something fruity and refreshing, and it’s been a regular in my kitchen ever since. It’s so simple, yet the flavour combination is just… wow! Let’s get into it, shall we?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This smoothie isn’t just tasty; it’s a little burst of goodness in a glass. It’s packed with fibre from the figs and banana, healthy fats from the coconut milk, and a lovely warming spice from the cinnamon. Plus, it takes literally 10 minutes to make! Perfect for busy mornings, post-workout refuelling, or just a little treat when you need it.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful smoothie:
- 6-7 fresh figs
- 1 medium banana
- 0.5 cup lite coconut milk (about 120ml)
- 1 pinch ground cinnamon
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because choosing the right ones can really elevate this smoothie!
Fresh Figs: Seasonal Availability & Varieties
Figs are best when they’re in season – usually from late summer to early fall. You want figs that are slightly soft to the touch, but not mushy. I love using Black Mission figs for their deep sweetness, but Brown Turkey figs work beautifully too. Don’t worry if they have a slightly bumpy skin, that’s perfectly normal!
Coconut Milk: Choosing the Right Type (Lite vs. Full-Fat)
I usually go for lite coconut milk to keep things a little lighter, but feel free to use full-fat if you want a richer, creamier smoothie. About 120ml (half a cup) is perfect for one serving. You can even use canned coconut milk – just make sure to shake the can well before opening!
Cinnamon: Ceylon vs. Cassia – Understanding the Difference
Did you know there are different types of cinnamon? Ceylon cinnamon (often labelled “true cinnamon”) is milder and more delicate, while Cassia cinnamon (the more common type) is bolder and spicier. Either will work in this smoothie, but if you’re sensitive to strong flavours, Ceylon might be a better choice.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s make some magic!
- First, give those beautiful figs a good rinse. Then, quarter them, removing the stems if they’re a little tough.
- Peel your banana and slice it up.
- Now, add the quartered figs, sliced banana, coconut milk, and that pinch of cinnamon to your blender.
- Blend everything together until it’s super smooth. If it’s too thick for your liking, just add a little more coconut milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately! Seriously, this is best when it’s fresh.
Expert Tips
A few little things I’ve learned along the way…
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount of cinnamon! A little goes a long way, but if you really love cinnamon, add a bit more.
- If your figs aren’t super sweet, you can add a tiny drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- For an extra chilled smoothie, pop the banana in the freezer for about 30 minutes before blending.
Variations
This smoothie is a great base for all sorts of fun variations!
Vegan Adaptation
This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your coconut milk doesn’t contain any sneaky additives.
Spice Level Adjustment (Adding Ginger or Cardamom)
My friend Priya loves adding a tiny piece of fresh ginger to her smoothie for a little zing. Or, for a more warming flavour, try a pinch of cardamom. Both are amazing.
Festival Adaptation (Navratri/Janmashtami – Fruit-Based Smoothies)
During festivals like Navratri or Janmashtami, when many observe a fruit-based diet, this smoothie fits right in! It’s a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the flavours of the season.
Gluten-Free Confirmation
Yes! This smoothie is 100% gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
This smoothie is perfect on its own, but you can also get creative with toppings! A sprinkle of chopped nuts, a few shredded coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of honey would be lovely.
Storage Instructions
Honestly, this smoothie is best enjoyed immediately. But if you absolutely have to store it, you can keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be aware that it might separate a little, so give it a good stir before drinking.
FAQs
Let’s answer some common questions!
Is this smoothie best served immediately?
Definitely! It tastes freshest and has the best texture when enjoyed right away.
Can I use frozen figs instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh figs really shine in this recipe. If you’re using frozen, you might need to add a little extra liquid to get it blending smoothly.
What if I don’t have coconut milk? What can I substitute?
Almond milk or regular dairy milk would work in a pinch. But coconut milk really adds a unique flavour that I think you’ll love!
How can I make this smoothie sweeter without refined sugar?
A date or two, a drizzle of honey, or a splash of maple syrup are all great options.
Can this smoothie be made into a smoothie bowl?
Absolutely! Just use a little less coconut milk to make it thicker, and pour it into a bowl. Then, top with your favourite goodies – granola, fruit, nuts, seeds… the possibilities are endless!