A rich, creamy coffee and chocolate protein smoothie that is ideal for breakfast, post-workout or as a midday pick-me-up. The combination of coffee and chocolate is so good that even a non-coffee drinker like myself (yes, we exist!) will enjoy this smoothie!
Alright, I have to make a confession; I’ve never had a cup of coffee in my life! Even though I absolutely love the smell of coffee, I don’t really enjoy this beverage. Would you believe me then if I say that tiramisu is one of my favorite desserts and that I am a big fan of espresso gelato? I guess the best way to describe it is that I like the taste of coffee mostly when it is used to complement other flavors. This smoothie recipe is the perfect example; the coffee enhances the chocolate flavor and creates a bold, earthy and nutty flavor profile.
If you’re a daily coffee drinker, consider making this smoothie as part of your breakfast. You can switch things up and provide your body with some fiber and protein first thing in the morning in addition to your daily dose of caffeine. I like to pair this smoothie with some oatmeal, fresh fruit or a yogurt bowl in the morning. It also serves as a great smoothie for after your morning or afternoon workout.
This coffee and chocolate protein smoothie recipe is very simple and it only takes about five minutes to make. Here are a few tips to ensure optimal consistency and flavor:
- Only use overripe bananas; they should have brown spots before you freeze them.
- Make sure that your coffee has been cooled completely before you make your smoothie.
- Ice works great to thicken and chill the smoothie, but as the ice melts the smoothie will dilute, so it is best to consume the beverage right after you make it. I recommend to start out with just a few ice cubes and add more if necessary; too many ice cubes can make your smoothie less flavorful.
- Use dark roast ground coffee for a stronger coffee flavor.
- Use a “junk-free” protein powder if you can. Many protein powders contain harmful artificial ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, aspartame, maltodextrin, monosodium glutamate (MSG) and carrageenan.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 frozen banana, very ripe
- 3/4 cup almond milk (or your milk of choice)
- 3/4 cup cold brew coffee (or strong regular coffee, cooled)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons of cacao powder (unsweetened)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 scoop vanilla or chocolate protein powder (choose one with clean ingredients)
- 3-6 ice cubes (depending on size)
Optional
- Sweetener of choice: date syrup, maple syrup or honey
- Chia seeds, hemp seeds
Instructions
- Add all the liquids first to a blender, followed by the remaining ingredients.
- Blend on high speed. Add more ice for a thicker smoothie or more liquid to thin it out.
- Serve immediately. Enjoy!