Vanilla Ice Cream Banana Coffee Blend

Introduction

A large scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, 1 tsp instant coffee powder, and half a banana blend into a cold coffee shake with enough body to drink slowly. It takes 5 minutes, needs no cooking, and works as a quick dessert or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Servings: 1

Ingredients

• 1 large scoop vanilla ice cream
• 1 tsp instant coffee powder
• ½ banana, chopped
• 6 ice cubes

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and frothy.
3. Serve immediately.

Variations

• Change the 1 tsp instant coffee powder to ½ tsp if you want a milder coffee flavor and a more dessert-like drink.
• Use 1 whole banana instead of ½ banana for a thicker, sweeter blend with more banana flavor.
• Reduce the 6 ice cubes to 3 or 4 if you want a less frosty texture and a more concentrated coffee taste.
• Swap the vanilla bean ice cream for a dairy-free vanilla-bean-style frozen dessert if you need a dairy-free version; the result is usually a little lighter and less creamy.

Tips for Success

• Chop the ½ banana into small pieces so it blends quickly and evenly.
• Measure the instant coffee powder level, not heaped, since too much can make a small drink taste bitter.
• Blend until the ice cubes are fully crushed; the drink should look smooth, not slushy with visible chips.
• Serve right after blending, because the foam drops and the drink thins as the ice melts.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in a tightly sealed jar or bottle in the fridge for up to 12 hours. Shake well or reblend before drinking, since separation is expected.

You can freeze it in an airtight container or popsicle mold for up to 1 month, but the texture is better as a frozen treat than as a thawed drink. If frozen solid, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes and reblend.

Reheating is not recommended for this recipe. It is meant to be served cold.

FAQ

Can you use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee powder?

Yes, but use strong chilled coffee or espresso and expect a thinner drink because of the extra liquid. You may want to reduce the ice slightly.

Can you make it without banana?

Yes. The drink will be less thick and less sweet, with the coffee flavor standing out more.

What kind of blender works best for the 6 ice cubes?

A full-size blender works fastest, but a personal blender can handle it if the ice cubes are small. Pulse a few times first before blending continuously.

Can you make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free vanilla-bean-style frozen dessert in place of the ice cream. The texture may be a bit icier depending on the base.