This smoothie is the easiest way to feel like you’re winning the morning.
It’s creamy, nutty, lightly sweet, and gives you that little coffee buzz without needing to stand in line.
It’s packed with protein, so it keeps you full—and it tastes like a fancy coffee shop drink.
You’ll want this one on repeat.
Perfect for a post-workout boost or a quick breakfast when you’re running out the door.
Why I Love This Recipe
This smoothie has saved me on so many rushed mornings. I’ve made it more times than I can count. It’s energizing and seriously tasty. No chalky protein flavor here—just a dreamy mix of coffee and almond butter goodness.
- It’s ready in under 5 minutes
- Full of protein so it actually keeps you full
- You get your coffee and breakfast all in one
- Super smooth and creamy
- Easy to customize
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 frozen banana (sliced before freezing)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tsp instant coffee or espresso powder
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
Makes: 1 smoothie
Time: 5 minutes
Recipe + Instructions
Step 1: Add Almond Milk and Frozen Banana to Blender
Add 1 cup unsweetened almond milk and 1 frozen banana (sliced) into a blender.
Step 2: Add Vanilla Protein Powder
Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder to the blender.
Step 3: Add Instant Coffee, Almond Butter, Vanilla Extract, and Cinnamon
Add 1 tsp instant coffee, 1 tbsp almond butter, 1/2 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional) into the blender.
Step 4: Add Ice Cubes
Add 1/2 cup of ice cubes to the blender.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Blend everything on high until it’s completely smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Pour and Serve
Pour smoothie into a glass, garnish if you’d like.
Pro Tips
- Slice and freeze bananas ahead of time to make blending easier and the smoothie extra thick
- Use cold almond milk for a frostier drink
- Add a few more ice cubes if you want it thicker—just blend a little longer
- Taste and adjust—want it sweeter? Add a date or a little honey
- Rinse the blender right after—it makes cleanup way easier
Tools You’ll Need
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon for almond butter
- Glass or jar for serving
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap almond butter with peanut butter or cashew butter
- Use oat milk or soy milk instead of almond milk
- Try chocolate protein powder instead of vanilla
- Add a pinch of cocoa powder for mocha vibes
- Use decaf instant coffee if you’re skipping caffeine
Make Ahead Tips
- Pre-portion everything into freezer smoothie bags—just dump into the blender and go
- Freeze almond milk in ice cube trays to make it even thicker
Macros (Approximate)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g (mostly from banana)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- The banana adds natural sweetness and creaminess without extra sugar
- Almond butter adds healthy fats and richness to balance the flavor
- Coffee adds depth and energy, while protein powder keeps you full longer
- The ice helps emulsify everything into a cold, thick, milkshake-like blend
Common Mistakes
- Using fresh banana – It won’t give the thick texture you want
- Not blending long enough – You’ll get gritty bits from the coffee and protein powder
- Too much ice – Can make it watery if not careful. Add slowly.
- Using sweetened milk or flavored protein – Can make it overly sweet
What to Serve With
- A slice of whole grain toast with almond butter
- A handful of almonds for a double protein punch
- A hard-boiled egg if you need more staying power
- Nothing—this smoothie’s a full breakfast on its own
FAQ
Can I make this without protein powder?
Yes, but you’ll lose the protein boost. Add Greek yogurt instead for creaminess and some protein.
Is there caffeine in this smoothie?
Yes—about the same as half a cup of coffee. Use decaf if needed.
Can I double the recipe?
Yep! Just make sure your blender can handle the volume.
Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant?
Not recommended—it makes the smoothie too runny and dilutes the flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Skinny Almond Coffee Protein Smoothie is one of those go-to recipes that just makes mornings easier. It’s quick, tastes amazing, and gives you that energy boost you need to take on the day. Try it out, then leave a comment to let me know how you made it your own!
