Seasonal Cacao Smoothie Blend (Printable Version)
A creamy blend of raw cacao and seasonal fruits, rich in antioxidants and full of nourishing flavors.
# What You'll Need:
→ Fruits
01 - 1 ripe banana
02 - 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
03 - 1 small pear or apple, cored and chopped
→ Liquids
04 - 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
05 - 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
→ Superfoods & Flavor
06 - 2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
07 - 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds
08 - 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey, adjust to taste
09 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 - Pinch of cinnamon
→ Toppings
11 - Cacao nibs
12 - Sliced fresh fruit
13 - Toasted nuts or seeds
# How To Make:
01 - Place the banana, berries, chopped pear or apple if using, almond milk, orange juice, cacao powder, chia or flaxseeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon into the blender container.
02 - Process on high speed until completely smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, gradually add more almond milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
03 - Taste the smoothie and add additional maple syrup or honey if more sweetness is desired. Blend briefly to incorporate any adjustments.
04 - Pour the smoothie into serving glasses. Top with cacao nibs, sliced fresh fruit, or toasted nuts and seeds if desired. Serve immediately while chilled.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- The raw cacao gives you a mood boosting kick without the sugar crash of regular chocolate
- It somehow manages to taste decadent while loading you up with antioxidants and fiber
02 -
- Frozen fruit makes all the difference between a watery smoothie and a milkshake like texture
- The chia seeds will continue thickening the smoothie if it sits for more than a few minutes
03 -
- Let your blender run a little longer than you think necessary for the silkiest texture
- A frozen banana instead of fresh makes it taste like soft serve chocolate ice cream