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Looking for a sweet fix that also packs in one of your 5 a day? Look no further than this super creamy and ridiculously tasty banana milkshake. Blending sweet banana flesh with ice-cold milk and vanilla ice cream, this shake is delicious as it is, or can be flavoured with a multitude of things to add extra interest. I’ve also included options to make it lighter in calories and fat, to give you delicious treat that’s on the healthier side too.

Are bananas good for you?

Bananas are the second most popular fruit in the UK, and for good reason too. Not only do they taste great, but they pack a host of great health benefits. They are naturally high in potassium, providing around 9% of your recommended daily allowance. This is an electrolyte that helps balance the fluids in the body, whilst also helping the heart to work properly. There is a reason why they are a regular post-workout choice too as they help replace the potassium lost during exercise. Combined with the protein in the milk, this makes this humble milkshake a great snack choice after your gym session.

Bananas also contain high levels of fibre. This is an essential part of our diet as it helps with keeping a healthy digestive system, whilst also lowering your risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and bowel cancer.

Finally, bananas have a low GI, which means that they release energy more slowly than some other foods, which will help to keep you satiated for longer and reduce cravings to snack.

What type of bananas should I use?

Believe it or not, there are several different types of bananas, however, practically any type of banana you can buy commercially will work great for this shake.

Ideally, use ripe or overripe bananas which will be softer and easier to blend. Ideally, you want there to be a little browning on the skin. This is a great way to use up any bananas that will soon be past their best!

How can I make it healthier?

If you are looking for a lighter shake then there are a few things you can do to make your drink a little less sinful:

1. Use low fat ice cream and skimmed milk. Depending on the brand(s) you use, this will reduce the calories by around 90 and the fat by 9g.
2. You can also make this with just bananas and skimmed milk although it will be a little bland. You can add some powdered sweetener or consider incorporating one of the flavour options listed below. I also recommend adding a couple of ice cubes to the blender to keep it extra cold.

Alternative Flavours

While this banana milkshake is great as it is, you can also add different flavours for variety and extra taste. Why not try:

• Chocolate banana – simply add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for each shake when adding the ingredients to the blender. You can alternatively use 2 tablespoons of chocolate sauce such as this one.
• Coffee – add a caffeine fix to your shake by adding a shot of espresso to the mix. A great option for an early-morning post-workout snack and pick-me-up.
• Add some warming spice with a dash of cinnamon – use a pinch or two per shake and dust a little extra over the top before serving.
• Make it a little sweeter by adding half a tablespoon of honey to the blender when mixing.

Can I make it without a blender?

You can use either a stand blender or a stick/immersion blender for this recipe, which will make your life a lot easier than trying to make it without.

However, if you insist on mixing this by hand then follow the steps below and use overripe bananas which will be easier to break down than those which are just ripe.

1. Place the banana into a bowl and use a whisk to mash it up into a paste.
2. Add the ice cream into a mason jar and place in the microwave for around 15-20 seconds, until just starting to soften.
3. Add the banana and milk to the jar and seal with a lid. Shake vigorously until all the ingredients have combined.

If you don’t have a blender, then consider investing in one. They are pretty inexpensive and you will get a lot of use out of it over the years!

Can I make it in advance?

This shake is best made fresh as the ice cream will melt and warm up if made too far in advance. The bananas may also brown if sliced in advance as they oxidise, so it’s best to leave the peeling until just before you make the drink.

The good news is that this milkshake takes only a few minutes to prepare so can be easily made quickly during a hectic morning or afternoon.

Ingredients

For a full list of ingredients with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

• Banana, broken or cut into small pieces – ideally use very or overripe bananas
• Vanilla ice cream – try to avoid ice cream which is labelled as ‘soft serve’ or ‘soft scoop’ which will melt too quickly and not give as great a texture
• Milk – I typically use semi-skimmed because this is what I always buy, but whole milk will give a richer and creamier texture, whilst skimmed milk also works as a ligher option
• Whipped cream, to top – optional

How to make it

For more detailed steps with recipe tips jump to the printable recipe card.

1. Place all the ingredients together in a blender (or alternatively in a large jug if you are using a stick/immersion blender).
2. Blitz the mixture until you have a smooth and even mixture.
3. Serve with whipped cream to decorate if desired.

Looking for more great sweet treat recipes? Try:

• Frozen chocolate banana lollies
• Chocolate chip banana cookies
• Chocolate cornflake cakes
• Coffee and walnut cupcakes
• Peanut butter flapjacks

Products that work well for this recipe:

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