Hey there! If you’re looking for a creamy, energizing, and oh-so-delicious treat, this Almond Butter Espresso Shake is going to hit the spot.
It’s perfect for busy mornings, a quick pick-me-up in the afternoon, or even as a post-workout snack.
Packed with protein, natural sweetness, and a bold espresso kick, it’s a family favorite in our house (my husband swears it’s better than his coffee shop latte!).
Plus, it’s super easy to whip up.
Let’s get blending!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 shot of espresso (or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4-5 ice cubes
Tools:
- Blender
- Espresso machine or coffee maker
- Measuring spoons
Pro Tips
- Freeze Your Banana in Advance – It makes the shake creamier and eliminates the need for extra ice.
- No Espresso? No Problem! – Instant coffee works great in a pinch—just dissolve 1-2 teaspoons in a little water.
- Blend in Layers – Add liquid first, then the banana and almond butter. This prevents clumps and keeps the blender happy!
- Customize Sweetness – Skip the sweetener if the banana is ripe enough, or adjust to your taste.
- Kid-Friendly Version – Swap out the espresso for a bit of cocoa powder or chocolate milk for a treat the kids will love.
Tools You’ll Need
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A spoon for drizzling almond butter
Substitutions and Variations
- Milk Options: Swap almond milk for oat, coconut, or regular milk.
- Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of almond butter.
- Caffeine-Free: Skip the espresso and use decaf coffee or just milk for a kid-friendly shake.
- Extra Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder for an extra boost.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Freeze pre-measured banana chunks, almond butter dollops, and ice cubes together in a bag for grab-and-go smoothie prep.
- Brew your espresso or coffee the night before and chill it in the fridge.
Instructions
1. Brew Your Espresso
Brew a fresh shot of espresso or make a small amount of strong coffee. Let it cool slightly.
2. Add Ingredients to Blender
In a blender, combine almond milk, frozen banana, almond butter, espresso, vanilla, cinnamon, and honey (if using). Add the ice cubes on top.
3. Blend Until Smooth
Blend everything on high for about 30-60 seconds, or until the shake is creamy and smooth.
4. Pour and Serve
Pour the shake into a tall glass. Drizzle a little extra almond butter on top, sprinkle some cocoa powder or cinnamon, and garnish with a few espresso beans (optional).
Leftovers and Storage
This shake is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for a few hours in a sealed jar. Give it a quick stir before drinking—it might separate slightly.
Conclusion
This Almond Butter Espresso Shake is creamy, dreamy, and totally energizing. Whether you need a caffeine boost or just want a quick treat that feels fancy, this recipe’s got you covered. I’d love to hear how you customize yours—drop a comment below and let me know how it turned out or if you have any questions. Happy blending! 😊