I blend together creamy, dairy‑free ingredients—like cashews, Medjool dates, banana, and spices—creating a rich and refreshing shake that brings Southern California vibes straight to my glass.
Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I love this shake because it delivers comforting, natural sweetness from Medjool dates, a lush creaminess thanks to soaked cashews and coconut yogurt, and a warming touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Since it’s dairy‑free and gut‑friendly, I feel nourished while still indulging in a dessert‑like treat. It satisfies my cravings and still feels wholesome—a balance I crave in the warmer months.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 frozen banana
¾ cup raw cashews (soaked for extra creaminess)
6 large pitted Medjool dates
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 large handful of ice cubes
¾ cup almond milk
1 dollop of coconut yogurt (for topping)
directions
I start by placing everything—except the coconut yogurt—into a high‑speed blender. I blend on high until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If needed, I pause to scrape down the sides so every bit gets blended fully. Once the shake is silky, I pour it evenly into two glasses and top each with a dollop of coconut yogurt. I serve it right away and savor every creamy sip!
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 shakes.
Prep Time: About 5 minutes (mostly for soaking cashews ahead of time)
Blending Time: Roughly 1–2 minutes total
Total Time: Approximately 6–7 minutes once the cashews are pre‑soaked
Variations
I’ve experimented by swapping Medjool dates for dried figs or adding a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost. Sometimes I toss in a handful of spinach or a sprinkle of chia seeds for added nutrition—or a drizzle of maple syrup if I want it even sweeter.
storage/reheating
This shake is best enjoyed fresh for maximum creaminess and flavor. I don’t store leftovers since the texture changes quickly—but if I have an extra, I keep it refrigerated for under 24 hours and give it a quick stir or blend before drinking.
FAQs
Can I skip soaking the cashews?
I don’t recommend it—soaked cashews blend much more smoothly, making the shake creamier and easier on the gut.
Will other nuts work instead of cashews?
I’ve tried almonds, but the texture isn’t as silky. Cashews are unique in delivering that rich, milkshake‑like creaminess.
Are Medjool dates necessary?
They’re ideal for their plump, caramel‑sweet flavor, but I’ve used Deglet Noor or chopped dates in a pinch—just soak them briefly to soften.
Can I make this nut‑free?
Yes—I’ve had success using sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of cashews to keep it dairy‑free and allergy‑friendly.
What if it’s too thick?
Sometimes it gets very thick, so I thin it with a little extra almond milk until it’s spoonable or drinkable again.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Only blend it when I’m ready to enjoy it. The flavor and texture drop quickly—so I blend fresh every time.
Is this shake filling?
I find it quite satisfying. The bananas, cashews, and dates give it a smoothie‑like substance that keeps me full.
Can I add protein powder?
Definitely—I stir in a scoop before blending for a protein‑rich, post‑workout treat.
Can this be made vegan?
Yes—the recipe is naturally dairy‑free and vegan if your coconut yogurt doesn’t contain animal-derived ingredients.
How “gut‑healthy” is it really?
I believe the soaked cashews, fiber‑rich dates, and probiotics in coconut yogurt support digestion, so it’s one of my favorite feel‑good drinks.
Conclusion
I turn to this Gut‑Healthy Cashew Date Shake whenever I want something that tastes indulgent yet keeps me feeling nourished. Its creamy texture, warm spice notes, and guilt‑free sweetness make it a standout in my shake rotation—refreshing, cozy, and balanced in every sip.
Print
Gut‑Healthy Cashew Date Shake
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 shakes
Description
A Creamy, Dairy-Free Shake Made with Cashews, Dates, and Warm Spices Inspired by the Coachella Valley
Ingredients
1 frozen banana
3/4 cup raw cashews (soaked for extra creaminess)
6 large Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 large handful of ice cubes
3/4 cup almond milk
1 dollop coconut yogurt
Instructions
Add the frozen banana, soaked cashews, pitted dates, cinnamon, nutmeg, ice cubes, and almond milk to a high-speed blender.
Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
Pause and scrape down the sides if needed to fully incorporate all ingredients.
Pour into two glasses and top each with a dollop of coconut yogurt.
Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing, gut-healthy shake!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
