Pin it
This Almond Joy smoothie popped into my head one day when I wanted something sweet but still healthy. The mix of chocolatey goodness, smooth banana and crunchy almonds with coconut hints reminds me of my beloved candy bar. It's become my favorite pick-me-up that feels like a treat while sneakily including good ingredients like spinach and natural sweeteners.
What Makes This Special
You'll get that amazing chocolate and coconut flavor in every gulp, and you won't even notice the spinach hiding in there. It only needs a few minutes with your blender but tastes like you're drinking dessert. And you can tweak all the ingredients to nail the perfect sweetness and richness for your taste buds.
Your Shopping List
- The Foundation: Frozen banana for smoothness, pick either almond or coconut milk.
- Secret Ingredient: Fresh spinach leaves, don't worry, it'll be our little secret.
- Flavor Heroes: Quality cocoa powder, some almond butter or whole almonds, maybe coconut extract for extra island vibes.
- Sweetness Factor: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup if your banana isn't very ripe yet.
Let's Blend
- Begin With Greenery
- Mix your milk with spinach first until completely smooth with no green specks left.
- Drop In Key Components
- Add your banana, cocoa, almond butter and any sweeteners you want.
- Adjust To Taste
- Too thick? Pour in a bit more milk. Too runny? Add some ice cubes or extra frozen banana chunks.
- Serve With Flair
- Fill your chosen glass and maybe sprinkle some coconut flakes or dust with cocoa on top.
Pin it
Pro Tips
Freeze bananas when they're spotted and soft for natural sweetness. Make sure to blend the spinach completely first so you won't find green bits in your chocolatey drink. For extra decadence, try using chocolate almond milk instead of regular.
Health Boost
The banana gives you quick fuel while the spinach adds iron and nutrients you can't taste. Cocoa isn't just delicious, it's loaded with antioxidants too. The almonds provide healthy fats and protein that actually keep you full. I sometimes throw in protein powder when I need something more substantial.
Keep It Fresh
Drink your smoothie right away for best flavor, but you can store it in the fridge for about 24 hours. Just shake it well before drinking it later. Don't try freezing it though, the texture gets weird when it thaws out.
Mix It Up
Switch up your milk choices for different flavor notes. Toss in some oats if you want it more filling or add chia seeds for those healthy fats. I've even snuck in frozen cauliflower pieces before, they make it creamy without changing the taste, just like spinach does.
Pin it
Make It Yours
Find your perfect sweetness level through trial and error. My little ones prefer extra banana while I go heavier on the cocoa. Finish it with whatever makes you smile, maybe some coconut shreds, melted dark chocolate, or crushed almond pieces. That's the beauty of smoothies, they can change right along with what you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Will you taste the spinach in it?
- Not at all! The chocolate and coconut totally cover up any spinach taste. It just sneaks in some nutrition and gives a slight green color.
- → How do I sweeten it the best way?
- Frozen bananas work great for natural sweetness. Taste it first and only add honey or sweeteners if needed. If using stevia, go slow—it’s strong!
- → How do I get more coconut flavor?
- Go with coconut milk instead of almond milk, and throw in some cream of coconut. Coconut extract is optional but adds an extra kick.
- → How can I make it thicker?
- Toss in extra ice or use a frozen banana instead of fresh. Freezing your coconut milk in cubes can add a nice creamy boost too.
- → Can I get it ready ahead of time?
- Sure! Freeze all the ingredients except liquids to make smoothie packs. Blend with your milk when you’re ready. Best to drink fresh, though!