Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake
If you’re on the hunt for a delectable drink that combines the rich flavors of espresso, chocolate, and hazelnuts, look no further! This Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also packed with nutrients and can be whipped up in minutes. With the right balance of sweetness and a creamy texture, this shake will become your new go-to for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Plus, it’s vegan and dairy-free, making it a perfect choice for everyone. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful beverage that you’ll want to sip on all day long!
Why It Works Every Time
The magic of this Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake lies in the combination of its simple yet powerful ingredients. The ripe banana adds natural sweetness and creaminess, while the unsweetened non-dairy milk provides a smooth base. The roasted hazelnuts contribute a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich espresso. The Medjool dates add a hint of caramel-like sweetness, and the cacao powder enhances the chocolatey goodness without any added sugars. Together, these ingredients create a shake that’s satisfying, energizing, and downright delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 1 ripe banana (preferably frozen for a creamier texture)
- 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond, oat, or coconut work well)
- ½ cup ice (to make it refreshingly cold)
- ½ cup roasted hazelnuts (for that nutty crunch)
- 4 ounces brewed espresso (or strong coffee, chilled)
- 3 soft Medjool dates (pitted for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon cacao powder (for rich chocolate flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (to elevate the taste)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons cacao nibs (for garnish and extra texture)
Gear Checklist
- High-powered blender – Essential for achieving a silky-smooth consistency.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements make for a perfect shake.
- Glass or mason jar – For serving and enjoying your delicious shake.
- Straw (optional) – Because sipping through a straw is just more fun!
Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake, Made Easy
Step 1: Gather All Ingredients
Begin by gathering all the ingredients listed above. Having everything prepped and ready will make the blending process seamless.
Step 2: Blend the Base Ingredients
In your high-powered blender, add the frozen banana, unsweetened non-dairy milk, ice, roasted hazelnuts, chilled espresso, and pitted Medjool dates.
Step 3: Add Flavor Enhancers
Next, sprinkle in the cacao powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. These ingredients will enhance the flavor profile of your shake.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 30 seconds to a minute, depending on the strength of your blender.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Give your shake a taste! If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add another Medjool date and blend again.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Pour the shake into a glass or mason jar and sprinkle with cacao nibs on top for an extra crunch. Enjoy your Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake immediately for the best flavor and texture!
Make It Year-Round
- Change the Fruit: Feel free to substitute the banana with a frozen avocado for a creamier texture without the banana flavor.
- Seasonal Add-ins: In the fall, add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth; in the summer, consider tossing in a handful of spinach for extra nutrients.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder to turn this shake into a post-workout recovery drink.
- Different Nut Butters: Swirl in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for a different flavor twist!
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking by modifying the number of dates used or experimenting with different non-dairy milks. For those who enjoy a stronger coffee flavor, consider increasing the espresso to 6 ounces. The shake is also delightful when made ahead of time; just give it a good stir or shake before drinking, as it may separate slightly while sitting.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Texture: For a thicker shake, reduce the amount of non-dairy milk or add more ice.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
This shake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can refrigerate it for up to a day. Just remember to give it a good shake before consuming, as it may separate. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider freezing it in ice cube trays, then blending the cubes with a splash of non-dairy milk when you’re ready to enjoy a refreshing treat!
Common Questions
Can I use instant coffee instead of brewed espresso?
Yes! You can substitute instant coffee for brewed espresso. Just mix it with hot water according to package instructions and let it cool before adding it to your shake.
Is there a nut-free alternative to hazelnuts?
Absolutely! You can replace hazelnuts with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch and flavor. Sunflower seed butter is also a great alternative.
Can I make this shake without a blender?
While a blender is ideal for achieving a smooth texture, you can use a handheld milk frother or immersion blender for a less smooth but still tasty version.
How do I make this shake less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet shake, reduce the number of Medjool dates or use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of cacao powder.
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Bring It to the Table
Whether you’re starting your day with an energizing breakfast or indulging in a delicious afternoon treat, this Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake is sure to please. Its rich flavors, creamy texture, and nutritious ingredients make it a delightful addition to any meal. Gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and watch as they savor every sip of this delightful shake. Share your experience and let us know how you customized your version! Enjoy every delicious drop!
Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all the ingredients listed above. Having everything prepped and ready will make the blending process seamless.
- In your high-powered blender, add the frozen banana, unsweetened non-dairy milk, ice, roasted hazelnuts, chilled espresso, and pitted Medjool dates.
- Next, sprinkle in the cacao powder, vanilla extract, and sea salt. These ingredients will enhance the flavor profile of your shake.
- Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 30 seconds to a minute, depending on the strength of your blender.
- Give your shake a taste! If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add another Medjool date and blend again.
- Pour the shake into a glass or mason jar and sprinkle with cacao nibs on top for an extra crunch. Enjoy your Espresso Chocolate Hazelnut Shake immediately for the best flavor and texture!
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- For a thicker shake, reduce the amount of non-dairy milk or add more ice.
- Consider freezing leftovers in ice cube trays for a quick treat later.
