Jump start your morning with this power-packed, chocolate coffee smoothie! It’s easy to make, naturally sweetened and contains a surprising veggie addition for an extra nutrient boost!
For the days when you can’t decide between clean eating and chocolate…why not both with this breakfast coffee smoothie?
Why You’ll Love It
It’s naturally sweetened with fruit! No added sugars needed! Fresh fruit fiber is filling and good for your metabolism. It slows down digestion and is better for more sustain energy levels – no sugar slump!
It’s made with cauliflower, but you wouldn’t know it! No, seriously! Instead of ice, frozen cauliflower helps bulk up this smoothie. You can’t taste (or smell) the cauliflower at all. Between the chocolate, the coffee and the banana – it’s flavor it totally masked, but it’s nutritional benefits remain the same.
It’s a tasty way to use up leftover coffee! Let’s be real – old coffee taste weird. You can’t reheat it and it’s a shame to throw out the morning cup of coffee you were too busy to finish. You can, however, throw it in a blender with a handful of good-for-you ingredients and transform it into a totally delicious smoothie with a kick of caffeine.
Chocolate Coffee Smoothie Ingredients
- Banana: Frozen banana is a fantastic natural sweetener. It also helps thicken and make for a creamy smoothie. That being said, you can absolutely use fresh banana if that’s all you have, but you will need to add ice to the blender. Also remember the riper the banana, the sweeter the flavor. Overripe bananas also contain more antioxidants, by the way!
- Medjool Dates: They’re large, soft and naturally sweet, not to mention a rich source of fiber, vitamins and minerals. A few dates helps keep this smoothie from being too strong on the banana flavor.
- Frozen Cauliflower: Cauliflower basically works in place of ice cubes. It also adds extra bulk and nutrition without adding any extra carbs.
- Note: Uncooked cauliflower can lead to excess bloating and discomfort so make to steam or blanche it before using.
- Coffee: Leftover, cold coffee if a great to use here, but you can also make use of a cold brew coffee. Make it decaf if you need!
- Milk: Milk of choice is up to you. Use a plant-based milk like almond milk, coconut milk or oat milk. Or use a regular dairy milk: whole, semi, skim – what ever you prefer works here. If you’re really in the mood to play up the chocolate you can always try this out with a chocolate milk!
- Cocoa Powder: Make sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder so that you’re not adding any sneaky sugar to this recipe.
- Vanilla Extract + Salt: Our flavor enhancers.
Optional Additions & Substitutions
- Chia Seeds or Flaxseeds: Both contain extra nutrients and healthy fats which should help you feel fuller for longer.
- Protein Powder: Add a scoop of your favorite powder for an extra protein boost. Vanilla and chocolate powders are a good choice, but unsweetened protein powder is another great option.
- Nut Butter: A tablespoon of your favorite nut butter will help create a thicker, creamier smoothie and add more protein. Try it with a natural peanut butter, cashew butter, almond butter, etc.
- Oats: Oats are a great addition if you’re want to make an even more filling and satiating smoothie!
- More or Less Liquids: If you like you smoothies thick, start with 1/4 cup milk. If you need to thin it out, add a few extra tablespoons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put raw coffee grounds in a smoothie?
No! Brew your coffee as needed then add the cooled coffee without the grounds or you’ll end up with gritty, bitter smoothie.
Can I put coffee powder in my smoothie?
Nope! Instant coffee is totally fine to use, but make sure to brew it as directed. You want the powder fully dissolved in the water before blending to ensure everything thoughly mixes together.
Can I use hot coffee?
Best not! Let the coffee cool to room temperature before blending or it will warm up the frozen food. It’s also not ideal to add hot liquids to a blender.
Will I taste the cauliflower?
No! It’s one of my favorite smoothie additions because it does get lost in other strong flavors! Check out my Orange Sunshine Creamsicle Smoothie and my Healthy Strawberry Shake for examples!
Do I have to use cauliflower?
Great questions! If you’re not keen on the though of cauliflower mixed into your iced coffee smoothie (fair, but you should try it!) you can leave it out. Instead, add 1 cup of ice and you’re good to go.
Chocolate Coffee Smoothie
Thick and creamy chocolate coffee smoothie - naturally sweetened with banana and dates with a sneaky veggie addition!
Ingredients
- 1 frozen banana
- 3 medjool dates, pit removed
- 2-3 florets frozen cauliflower, steamed or blanched before frozen
- 3/4 cup cold coffee (180ml)
- 1/2 cup almond milk, or dairy free milk of your choice (120ml)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Blend everything together in a high-speed blender for about 45-60 seconds until thick and smooth.
Notes
- Make sure to use cauliflower that's already been steamed or blanched to prevent stomach discomfort.
- You can use 1 cup ice instead of cauliflower.
Glenna says
I didn’t have a frozen banana, so mine was not as thick. Added extra ice to the finished drink and called it an iced mocha. What a refreshing treat for a hot afternoon. Thanks for sharing.
Sarah Nevins says
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks Glenna!