Need an afternoon pick-me-up? This Chocolate Coffee Smoothie is creamy, sweet, and perfect for a hot Summer morning!
In the Summer heat, I’m all about eating and drinking cold meals. It doesn’t get crazy hot in Ohio, but in July and August we can easily see 90-degree weather.
When that comes around, you’ll always find foods in my fridge like overnight oats for a cold breakfast, or pasta salad as a side for dinner.
Smoothies are some of my favorite things, especially as a post-workout meal. You can add so many things to smoothies, and they’re a great healthy breakfast if you add the right ingredients.
If you need a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon or an extra kick of caffeine during busy mornings, try this Chocolate Coffee Smoothie! It’s creamy, sweet, and really hits the spot during those hot Summer months. I always need my morning cup of coffee, but this makes for a special treat too!
Scroll to the bottom of the post to get to the printable card for this easy recipe. Or keep reading to get extra tips and tricks!
Ingredients
- Almond milk: You can easily substitute this for dairy milk, oat milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or plant-based milk.
- Honey: This is a natural sweetener and can be replaced with maple syrup!
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: This gives the smoothie its dark chocolate flavor and color.
- Instant coffee packet: This is the easiest way for me! The coffee crystals blend right in with everything. Or you could use cold brewed coffee instead.
- Banana: Bananas add natural sweetness to smoothies. Freeze it first before blending to give it a creamy texture. And if you use a frozen banana, you won’t have to use lots of ice!
How to add extra nutrition
When I think of meal ideas, I really want healthy ingredients that will keep me full for awhile. Smoothies are a great way to do that, but they need the right nutritious ingredients!
Here are some things you can add to boost the nutrition and flavor:
- Protein: Protein keeps you full! Add some Greek yogurt or protein powder for extra protein.
- Healthy fats: Nut butters like peanut butter and almond butter, chia seeds, or flaxseed all have healthy Omega 3 fats, which we normally don’t get enough of. It’s important for brain health and boosts fullness and extra flavor!
- Vegetables: Why not blend in a handful of spinach for some extra vitamins? I can’t taste the difference!
- Fresh fruit: Other fruits like berries can add all sorts of nutrients and sweetness! They can also help create a creamy smoothie and boost energy levels due to all the vitamins.
How to make
In a blender, add ingredients. For best results, add in this order: Almond milk, honey, banana, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and ice if needed.
Blend until smooth. Add to a glass or travel cup and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! You can use cold coffee instead of almond milk, or use a mixture of both. The more liquid you add, the more ice you may need to add to compensate.
Yes! Chocolate protein powder usually has a bit of added sugar, so that will add extra sweetness. But the protein will help keep you full longer.
I’ve added spinach, carrots, butternut squash, and even riced cauliflower to smoothies. These all have a mild flavor and you can’t taste them once you blend them in the smoothie.
Yes! Either add all the ingredients in a freeze bag and freeze until ready, or blend the entire smoothie and keep in a Mason jar in the freezer. Leave room at the top for the smoothie to expand in the jar!
Coffee grounds wouldn’t work in this recipe. Make sure you actually brew the coffee first, then let it cool to room temperature before adding to this smoothie.
This has super simple ingredients and can be the perfect way to start your morning! Print this chocolate coffee smoothie recipe now:
Chocolate Coffee Smoothie
Need an afternoon pick-me-up? This Chocolate Coffee Smoothie is creamy, sweet, and perfect for a hot Summer morning!
Ingredients
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 packet instant coffee
- 1 banana, ripe
- 1 cup ice
Instructions
- In a blender, add ingredients. For best results, add in this order: Almond milk, honey, banana, cocoa powder, instant coffee, and ice if needed.
- Blend until smooth. Add to a glass or travel cup and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 1 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 246Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 22mgCarbohydrates: 56gFiber: 5gSugar: 39gProtein: 3g
Jaime is a Nutrition Coach through the ISSA and professional writer. She has 4 years experience coaching and 9 years experience in writing. She enjoys cooking easy meals, running, and learning more about food.
Jaime specializes in helping women with ADHD learn to meal plan and cook healthier meals without getting overwhelmed.