Coffee Smoothies Are The Ultimate 2-In-1 Morning Beverage

Whether you're on the go or commuting to work, time doesn't always allow for a sit-down breakfast — but that doesn't mean you need to sacrifice having a nutritious and satisfying meal. One solution: a coffee smoothie. This 2-in-1 beverage offers the best of both worlds; the coffee gives you that morning caffeine hit, while the fruit and other smoothie ingredients provide nutrients and sustenance. Instead of drinking coffee alongside breakfast, having a coffee smoothie saves time by combining everything into a single cup.

Aside from the convenience, coffee smoothies are also very customizable. Whether you prefer dairy or plant-based milk, or sweet or rich flavors, there are many variations of this morning beverage. If a fruit smoothie doesn't always fill you up, it's easy to incorporate some protein into this smoothie recipe, making it perfect as a pre- or post-workout snack. Protein powder, Greek yogurt, tahini, oats, hemp seeds, or nut butter are a few ideas for upping the protein content.

Looking to boost your morning coffee with flavor? This recipe normally includes frozen bananas and, sometimes, dates, which both provide fruitiness, natural sweetness, and fiber. For those who normally skip breakfast and only have a cup of java, a coffee smoothie is something to consider since it won't make you feel loaded down and gives a healthy boost of energy. The addition of ingredients like bananas, oats, or nut butter provides fiber and healthy fats, keeping you full longer than a standard cup of coffee.

There are several ways to add coffee to your smoothie, but the main rule is to avoid using hot coffee. One of the easiest options is to use cold brew coffee; whether you make it yourself or buy it from the store, cold brew is always chilled. It brings a powerful punch of caffeine, and because it is less acidic, it incorporates smoothly with the other ingredients.

If you normally make hot coffee or espresso, let it fully cool, or make it the night before and store it in the fridge. Brewed coffee from a standard coffee pot will have more volume and is less concentrated than other options, so you'll want to use less milk to avoid a super thin smoothie (unless you like that!). Espresso is more concentrated, and the coffee flavor will come through more in the smoothie.

Making ice cubes from leftover coffee is a good way to reduce waste in the kitchen, and it ensures that you always have cold coffee on hand. Plus, using coffee ice cubes will provide a thicker, icy texture in the smoothie. Finally, adding instant coffee is also an easy option. There is no preparation needed, and the powder can be added directly to the blender.

The bold, roasty, chocolatey, and nutty flavors of coffee add depth to other ingredients; the base of a coffee smoothie is typically banana, milk, chocolate, and nut butter. Cocoa or cacao powder creates a rich, indulgent smoothie reminiscent of a mocha, and a few drops of vanilla extract or vanilla-flavored plant-based milk can enhance the chocolatey and coffee flavors. To contrast the sweet creaminess, consider the addition of spices such as cinnamon or ginger powder. A Mexican chocolate coffee smoothie can be made with cocoa powder, cinnamon, and a touch of chili powder. For something more refreshing, try adding a few sprigs of fresh mint or mint extract with cocoa powder — it will taste like a mocha mint frappuccino.

Use more milk for a thinner smoothie and less for a thicker one. To create a denser smoothie, try adding nut butter, yogurt, or oats. It is recommended to use frozen bananas for a thick smoothie, and adding ice or coffee ice cubes can create a texture similar to a Frosty. Up the sweetness with dates, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

If nutrition is your goal, there's a secret ingredient that can be added: frozen vegetables. But make sure you use veggies with the most neutral flavors, such as zucchini or cauliflower. The other, more flavorful ingredients in the smoothie will cover up any vegetal tastes, allowing you to easily sneak in extra vegetable servings in the morning.