Imagine sipping on a creamy glass of pure sunshine—yes, I’m talking about a date shake that feels like a hug in a cup. A few years back, I stumbled upon this delightful concoction during a trip to Palm Springs, and it was love at first sip. It’s naturally sweet, oddly comforting, and refreshingly healthy, like finding a hidden oasis in a desert of desserts.
Steps
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: frozen bananas, dates, chia seeds, peanut butter, almond milk (or your preferred milk), and cinnamon.
- If using dates that are not very soft, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to make blending easier, especially if your blender isn’t very powerful.
- Place the frozen bananas, softened dates, chia seeds, peanut butter, almond milk, and a pinch of cinnamon into a high-speed blender.
- Blend the mixture for about 60-120 seconds until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. Check the texture, and add more milk if it’s too thick or more sweetener if desired.
- Pour the date shake into a glass or mason jar. Enjoy it immediately for the best taste and nutrient retention, or store it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Ingredients
- 1 frozen banana
- 5 dates, pitted
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 cup almond milk (or preferred milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Nutritional Values
Calories: 333kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 402mg | Potassium: 667mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 25g | Vitamin A: 76IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 394mg | Iron: 2mg
FAQ
- How ripe should the bananas be for a date shake?
- Slightly overripe bananas are ideal for this date shake. They add more natural sweetness and have increased antioxidants compared to just ripe bananas. If your bananas are starting to over-ripen, slice them and store them in the freezer for future use.
- Is it necessary to soften the dates before blending them?
- If you have a high-speed blender, there’s no need to soften the dates. However, if your blender isn’t as powerful, you can soak the dates in warm water for about 10 minutes to make them easier to blend.
- Can a date shake serve as a good breakfast option?
- Yes, a date shake can make for a great breakfast choice. While it does contain higher natural sugars, it is packed with fiber, nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants that provide energy and help keep you full until lunchtime.
- How should I store leftover date shake?
- Any leftover date shake should be stored in an airtight mason jar in the fridge. It will remain fresh for up to 24 hours, but it’s best consumed immediately after preparation for optimal nutrient retention.
- What type of milk works best for a date shake?
- You can use any milk variety for a date shake. Almond milk is a popular choice, but dairy milk or other plant-based alternatives like soy or oat milk work well too.
Tips
- Freeze Bananas in Advance: Ensure you have frozen bananas ready by slicing and freezing them at least two hours before making the shake. This helps enhance the creamy texture without needing ice, which can dilute the flavor.
- Soften Dates for Easier Blending: If your blender isn’t high-powered, soak the dates in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding them to the blender. This makes them easier to blend smoothly into the shake.
- Consume Immediately for Optimal Nutrients: For the best nutritional benefits and flavor, enjoy your date shake right after blending. If you need to store it, use an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Experiment with Spices: Customize the flavor of your shake by experimenting with different spices. If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, try adding nutmeg, cloves, or ginger for a unique twist.
Equipment
- High-Speed Blender – A high-speed blender is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture, especially when blending dates and frozen bananas. A brand like Vitamix is mentioned in the recipe.
- Mason Jar – While not essential, a mason jar is useful for storing any leftover shake or for serving the shake in a trendy way.
