Reenergize and refuel after a tough workout with this naturally sweetened Cold Brew & Cacao Recovery Smoothie.
This post is sponsored by Natural Delights.
You just got back from a killer run (that you totally nailed). You’re sweaty. You’re high on endorphins. Damn, you’re feeling good.
In order to keep that good feeling going all day long, and make sure you can crush your next workout, it’s important to give your muscles the fuel they need to recover.
Something with a good balance of carbs and protein is key, and I find the best (and most delicious) way to get that is with a smoothie. Not just any smoothie of course, I like to get a little energy boost from healthy blend of complex carbs and caffeine. This Cold Brew & Cacao Recovery Smoothie fits the bill.
A little cold brew coffee gives this concoction delicious flavor while giving you amazing energy, cacao has awesome antioxidant power and a tablespoon of almond butter is in there for a dose of healthy fat and protein (plus, let’s be honest, everything is better with almond butter). The real star of the show however, is Medjool Dates.
I usually use bananas to give my smoothies a natural sweetness, but I swapped the ‘nana for Medjool dates in this bad boy. Not only are Medjool dates a fantastic natural sweetener and a fiberlicious complex carb, but they’re also loaded with potassium. As a matter of fact, Medjool dates have 50% more potassium by weight than bananas. Why is does that matter? Because potassium is a key factor in muscle recovery. BAZINGA!
Potassium from Medjool dates + antioxidants from cacao + energy from coffee + the awesomeness that is almond butter = a one way ticket to delicious recovery.
- 3/4 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup cold brew concentrate
- 1 Tbsp cacao nibs
- 1 Tbsp almond butter
- 3 pitted Medjool Dates (I used Natural Delights
- optional: scoop vanilla protein
- Combine all ingredients in a high speed blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy the recovery!
Let’s Chat:
What would go in your recovery smoothie?
I need to jump on the date train! These look incredible! Pinned for you!
Julie @ Running in a Skirt recently posted…Kettlebell Full Body Workout
I’m always in need of something yummy and cold to drink after a hard run. I think this would definitely do the trick. Thanks for sharing!
Kimberly G recently posted…Airbnb Brooklyn Half Marathon Training Recap – Week 11
This is my kind of smoothie – looks absolutely delicious!
Annmarie recently posted…5 Healthy Smoothie Recipes to Satisfy Sweet Summer Cravings
I haven’t gotten on the cold brew bandwagon. I like my coffee warm. 🙂 But this sure does look good!
Rachel recently posted…Everything Bagel Veggie Sandwich
I am trying to eat a little lighter this week while still getting enough fuel so this is a great, timely post. Thanks.
Runwright recently posted…3 Things That Might Surprise You About What I Did This Weekend
I’ve got to try these dates I keep hearing about! I just pinned this! 🙂
Michelle @ Running with Attitude recently posted…Weekly Wrap: Mother’s Day Edition
Good reason to try the cold brew! We are on the same page today with the yummy dates in our smoothies
Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner recently posted…Chocolate Covered Cherry Acai Bowls
Mmmmm this one sounds perfect! One cannot go wrong with cold brew and cacao!
Marcia recently posted…Just Like That It’s Triathlon Week
I am so enticed by the dates! I developed a huge aversion to bananas when I was pregnant with my son…I can eat bananas if they’re baked in bread or muffins but that’s it. So, I’ve been in search of a new source of potassium….
Kimberly Hatting recently posted…Miles, miles, and more miles
Sounds yummy! I love anything with dates in it.
Smitha @ FauxRunner recently posted…Cheering for Mom
That looks like the perfect drink for after a run. I just need someone to make it for me so it’s ready as soon as I come in the door!
Wendy@Taking the Long Way Home recently posted…Coming Down from that Post-Race High
Sounds like a great way to refuel and recharge!
Coco recently posted…Yay For Rain
This sounds like such a tasty + energizing drink! <3!
Farrah recently posted…Day in the Life: Cardiology
I am such a cold-brew fan lately! This sounds delish!
YUMMMM! I love a good smoothie. Especially with chocolate and cold brew!
oh that sounds delish! I need to get some of these dates and give it a try!
Mary Beth Jackson recently posted…May is my Month- Week Two
I’m not a coffee drinker (tea all the way), but I do love my smoothies. And I agree, bananas are great for adding a touch of sweetness.
Kathryn @ Dancing to Running recently posted…The Emotional Roller Coaster of Losing Weight
I’ve never tried dates before but hear how great they are for you. A friend of mine used them for her race fuel. Thank you for sharing!
This sounds refreshing! I think my husband would love this!
This is interesting. I actually love cacao, but never tried it this way. Thanks, your recipes are always there when I need them 😛
Brian recently posted…5 Proven Benefits Of Bench Press (#3 Is WOW)
I love this
Wow, some of these look truly dangerous! I’m a huge fan of Frozen Drinks and love the look of the Cold Brew and Cacao Recovery Smoothie. Ill have to give it a shot! Thanks for the share
Nigel recently posted…Are there Benefits to a Green Superfood Powder?