Baking with Olivia and Caroline

I can honestly say that this smoothie is my absolute favorite smoothie to date, pun intended. It makes me so happy when I drink it, and with each sip I say, “Wow, this is soooooooo delicious!” It’s like a vanilla milkshake but minus the ice cream. It is my go-to breakfast when I’m rushing in the morning. Heck, I have been known to drink this for lunch and on rare occasions even dinner. It is also a cure for my sweet tooth when my cravings hit. It just satisfies me on so many levels. I really am seriously in LOVE with this drink!

The stars of the show

The star of this smoothie is the Medjool dates. They are soft and sweet, with a rich caramel flavor. They are often referred to as “nature’s candy.” They are a good source of fiber, potassium, and natural energy.

The other two stars of this smoothie are the bananas and peanut butter. Both are rich in potassium, magnesium, and fiber. However, I’m no dietician, so do your own research for nutrition facts!

Of course to elevate this even further, a scoop of vanilla protein powder is a must! It’s a nutritional boost to an already nutrient-rich smoothie. It also gives it a more milkshake-like consistency.

After last month’s Ruby fun fact, I feel like I should add another, one where I’m not thoroughly ticked off at her! Remember, last month she ate a huge chunk of the Daffodil cake right before I was about to photograph it?

Ruby can be completely out cold, like snoring asleep and totally gone on the living room couch, but the second I start peeling a banana she just appears in the kitchen – no hesitation, no waking up slowly, just rounding the corner at warp speed. She’s at my feet within seconds, waiting for that piece of perfectly ripened banana. And honestly, she knows what’s coming next. The banana isn’t even the main event, it’s just the appetizer to the heaping spoonful of peanut butter she’s about to gobble down.

I guess this smoothie is also dog-recommended!

Ingredients

Makes two 16-ounce smoothies

2 pitted Medjool dates
1 ½ frozen bananas*
2 cups milk of choice
2 tbs peanut butter or nut butter of your choice
1 tsp vanilla
¼ tsp cinnamon
2 handfuls of ice cubes
1 extra large scoop vanilla protein powder

*Please use very ripe bananas. If you use non-ripened bananas, the smoothie will not be as delicious as I have made it out to be. Trust me!

Instructions

Place all ingredients in the blender and blend until smooth. 

As always, enjoy!•

Olivia and Caroline are enthusiastic foodies and bakers who are constantly in the kitchen, as well as explorers who create their own adventures in our area – and did we mention they are mother and daughter? Follow Olivia on Instagram to see her many creations at @oliviawvalentine.