Let me introduce you to my latest summer pick-me-up: this Banana Coffee Smoothie. It's creamy, refreshing, and delivers your morning caffeine and breakfast in one glass.
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
This Banana Coffee Smoothie is HEAVEN SENT. It’s the perfect mix of creamy, naturally sweet from the banana, and has just enough cold brew (or espresso) to perk you up without being overpowering. I love it on warm mornings when I don’t feel like eating a full meal but still need something to get me to lunch. The almond butter adds healthy fat and richness, the almond milk keeps it light, and the cinnamon makes it feel just a little elevated. It’s also totally customizable, aka you can add protein powder for a post-workout smoothie. One sip and you’ll be hooked.
Lets talk about the coffee in this Banana Coffee Smoothie. As someone who was NOT a caffeine drinker for 30+ years (hello matcha I love you too), I have learned so much in just 4 short years. Cold brew and espresso might both be coffee, but they’re totally different in how they’re made and how they taste. Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12 to 24 hours, resulting in a super smooth, less acidic flavor that’s naturally a little sweet.
Espresso, on the other hand, is brewed in a matter of seconds by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under high pressure. It’s bold, concentrated, and has a rich, slightly bitter flavor with that signature crema on top. Cold brew is mellow and easygoing, while espresso brings intensity and depth and both are great, just depends on the vibe you’re going for in your banana coffee smoothie.
So moral of the story: feel free to use either when it comes to making this Banana Coffee Smoothie. The amount of coffee you use depends on the method because cold brew is less concentrated and milder in flavor, so you typically need more of it. Espresso is much stronger and more intense, so a smaller amount goes a long way.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cold brewed coffee or espresso
- Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk
- Frozen banana
- Almond butter
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla protein powder (optional - but this is my favorite)
- Ice
How to Make
Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Tricks
- Make sure your banana is frozen for the creamiest texture.
- No cold brew or Espresso. Brew coffee ahead of time and chill it in the fridge.
- Add oats or chia seeds to bulk it up.
- A splash of vanilla extract or a drizzle of maple syrup can elevate the flavor if you want it a bit sweeter.
FAQ's
Can I use hot coffee?
I recommend using cold brewed or chilled coffee so the smoothie stays cold and creamy.
Is the protein powder necessary?
Nope! It’s just a bonus if you want extra protein. The smoothie is delish with or without it.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can blend it and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shake it up before sipping.
Similar Recipes
Banana Coffee Smoothie
Ingredients
- ½ cup cold brewed coffee or 1 shot of espresso, cooled
- ¾ cup Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk
- 1 banana cut into slices and frozen
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- handful of ice
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy immediately.
5 stars! Opened your email & immediately made this. Sooo good! (I added coffee ice cubes). Now on my repeat recipes. Thanks Gaby!
Oh yes!! Another great smoothie for the summer!
Here is the ingredient list of my current morning smoothie:
peanut butter, frozen banana, yogurt, collagen peptides probiotic powder, dark cocoa powder, milk, coffee and chia seed, ice, smoothie.