Ingredients
- ¼ cup soaked whole almonds (preferably raw)
- 1 cup coconut water
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- ½ ripe banana
- 1 tablespoon shelled hemp seeds (or hemp hearts)
- 1 pitted large date, such as Medjool
- 1 teaspoon cacao powder (preferably raw)
- Pinch sea salt (preferably Celtic or Himalayan)
- Pinch ground cinnamon
- Handful ice cubes
About this recipe
I have a confession to make: In the not-too-distant past I was hooked on chocolate Carnation instant breakfast packets. They’re just so easy and sweet and chocolatey. But as I learned about nutrition and started paying attention to ingredients, I realized I can make a healthier choice without much more effort.
Breakfast can be tricky — picky eaters, time restraints, grogginess. Despite the obstacles, my advice is to do your best to keep it healthy, because your first meal sets the tone for the entire day. This chocolate shake is my current favorite way to start the day, and my son and husband love it too. It’s easy and sweet with some powerhouse ingredients to fuel your morning.
*Key Components*
Soaked whole almonds are one of the best foods you can eat. Why soaked? Because it makes them easier to digest and therefore better for you. Soaking almonds is so simple. Just do it. See the recipe note to learn how. Anyway, almonds are awesome — good for your heart and filling, too.
Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes (super hydrating) and potassium, plus it tastes great.
Hemp seeds are a good source of protein. They also come loaded with vitamins and minerals that provide sustaining energy, which is nice in the morning.
Dates are mostly sugar but they also provide a hefty dose of fiber and essential minerals, making them a healthy choice for sweetening.
Cacao (or cocoa) powder is ground from the bean from which chocolate is made. In its natural state it is a powerful antioxidant that boosts energy, supports heart health, and protects our bodies from free-radical damage.
Cinnamon reduces inflammation and fights bacteria, but mostly it just tastes good.
Instructions
- Combine almonds, coconut water, almond milk, banana, hemp seeds, date, cacao, salt, and cinnamon in a powerful blender.
- Blend until completely smooth -- it takes about 30 seconds on high in a Vitamix.
- Add ice and quickly blend again to chill. Serve immediately.
*Notes:
Keeping soaked almonds on hand in the refrigerator makes healthy snacking and breakfast a cinch. Simply place a couple cups of almonds in a large jar or container with a lid, cover with filtered water, and place in the fridge overnight. The almonds will soften, making them easier to digest and to blend into delicious milk and shakes. Keep stored in water in the refrigerator for up to a week or so, changing the water when you think of it.
