NutriBullet Loco-Cocoa Recovery Smoothie

The NutriBullet Loco-Cocoa Recovery smoothie ingredients are:

• avocado
• banana
• vanilla almond milk
• cacao nibs
• cacao powder
• cinnamon
• vanilla protein powder
• vanilla extract
• Collagen Boost, optional

Avocados – Avocados are neither fruit nor vegetable, but are actually considered berries. They are an excellent source of vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B6 vitamin C, vitamin E, and vitamin K. Avocados promote healthy gut bacteria, reduce the risk of heart disease, and provide essential nutrients required during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
[Amazon Fresh]

Bananas – Bananas are very healthy, readily available, and one of the least expensive fruits you can buy. They have relatively few calories, are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium, are full of potent antioxidants including flavonoids and animes, and are high in dietary fiber. Studies have shown that bananas can improve insulin sensitivity and may improve kidney health.
[Amazon Fresh]

Almond Milk – Almond milk is a popular nut-based milk replacement that is naturally lactose-free, dairy-free, and completely vegan. It has a surprisingly diverse set of nutrients, including significant amounts of vitamin D, vitamin E, and calcium. Almond milk is also a heart-healthy beverage for those interested in lowering their cholesterol.
[Amazon Fresh]

Cacao – Cacao powder, commonly used as a base ingredient for chocolate, is made by grinding up coco beans and removing the fat. Its main health benefit comes from an abundance of polyphenols, a naturally occurring group of antioxidants. Cacao powder is a heart-healthy ingredient, known to reduce high blood pressure, improve blood flow to your brain, lower the risk of stroke, and improve Type 2 diabetes symptoms.
[Amazon Fresh]

Cinnamon – Cinnamon is an ancient spice that has been used medicinally for thousands of years. It is high in powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols, and is loaded with cinnamaldehyde, which also provides significant health benefits. Cinnamon is a known anti-inflammatory, helps reduce cholesterol, improves sensitivity to insulin, and aids in the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
[Amazon Fresh]

Whey Protein Powder – Whey protein powder is the most highly studied nutritional supplement readily available, providing great nutritional value and numerous health benefits. In addition to high quality protein, it also contains bioactive peptides called lactokinins. Whey protein powder promotes muscle growth and maintenance, helps lower blood pressure, can lessen the effects of Type 2 diabetes, and reduces inflammation.
[Amazon Fresh]

Vanilla – Vanilla is one of the most popular flavoring agents in the world due to its calming aroma and pleasing taste. It is also rich in the phenolic plant compound vanillin. Vanilla has been shown to protect brain cells against oxidative stress and to reduce liver damage.
[Amazon Fresh]

A standard blender is all that is required to make these NutriBullet smoothies. If you are making it for just one person, we recommend using the truly amazing personal NutriBullet Ultra as it is super-quick to set up and very easy to clean.

If you are making them for more than one person, we recommend the higher-end full-sized NutriBullet Smart Touch that can process larger loads more efficiently.

For overnight storage, we recommend using a glass or BPA-free airtight container with a resealable lid.

The Nutribullet Loco-Cocoa Recovery smoothie is very easy to make:

• Step 1: Place avocado, banana, vanilla almond milk, cacao nibs, cacao powder, cinnamon, vanilla protein powder, vanilla extract, and ice into a blender and secure the lid.
• Step 2: Start the blender on its lowest speed and steadily ramp up to its highest speed. This will reduce wear and tear on the motor and blades, facilitate a more consistent blend, and help prevent food splatter onto the lid and sides.
• Step 3: Blend for approximately 30 seconds or until a smooth consistency is achieved.
• Step 4: Pour into a glass for immediate refreshment or place in the refrigerator in an airtight container to enjoy later.

For ease of use, we recommend peeling and slicing a number of bananas, putting them in a freezer bag, and storing them in your freezer for quick access.

If you don’t have frozen fruit, or simply prefer to use fresh fruit (we totally get that), we recommend adding 1/2 cup of ice to chill your smoothie and give it a pleasing icy texture.

Coconut milk or soy milk can be substituted for the almond milk and still keep this delicious smoothie dairy-free.

Dark chocolate squares can be substituted for the cacao nibs or cacao powder without significantly changing the flavor profile.

NutriBullet: Website

Editor-In-Chief

Elle Kenwood

Elle Kenwood co-founded Make Drinks in 2013 and serves as its Editor-In-Chief.  An active CrossFit Level 3 Trainer with a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences from The University of Texas at Austin, Elle leads the team in curating and developing delicious smoothie and juice recipes, literally wearing out several blenders every year. • Connect with Elle on Facebook and Pinterest. • Send recipe ideas to Elle at: [email protected]