Go Back

Banana Date Smoothie

A thick, creamy smoothie made with just a banana and Medjool dates, naturally sweetened and incredibly indulgent without added sugars.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Core Ingredients
  • 1 large ripe banana, previously frozen in pieces Ripe is essential, the blacker the peel was before freezing, the sweeter and more intense the banana flavor.
  • 3 Medjool dates, pitted Medjool specifically, not the smaller, drier variety.
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk Or any plant-based milk, or regular whole milk for a richer result.
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter Smooth works best for even blending.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • a pinch flaky salt Optional, but genuinely transformative.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 tablespoon hemp seeds or chia seeds For protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder For a chocolate-date version.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom For an aromatic, slightly floral note.
  • 1 tablespoon rolled oats Makes the smoothie thicker and more filling.
  • 1/2 cup ice cubes For a colder, thinner result — reduce almond milk if using.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Freeze banana pieces in advance — at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
  2. Soak the Medjool dates in warm water for 10 minutes.
  3. Drain the dates and discard the soaking water.
Blending
  1. Layer the blender correctly: first add the almond milk, then the soaked dates, nut butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and pinch of salt. Finally, add the frozen banana pieces on top.
  2. Blend on low speed for 5 seconds, then increase to medium for 10 seconds, and finally to high speed for 30-45 seconds until completely smooth.
  3. If the smoothie is too thick, add a tablespoon more almond milk and blend again.
  4. Taste and adjust sweetness or warmth with additional dates or cinnamon if needed.
Serving
  1. Pour the finished smoothie into one large glass or two smaller ones.
  2. Optionally garnish with a banana slice, extra nut butter, or crushed dates.
  3. Serve immediately while cold.

Notes

For best results, blend immediately before serving. Can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 hours but stir or shake vigorously before drinking.