After the new year, all thoughts in the south turn to Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras is a time for family, fellowship, and lots of great food! One of the staples is the King Cake and we take it very seriously! From February to March, you'll find them in high demand and everywhere you go.
It's such a popular item that a couple of my local smoothie places are featuring their King Cake Smoothies. However, drinking one of these isn't any better than having a slice of cake! With so much sugar, (one of them has 4 bananas plus dates) the protein is negligible!
While King Cake might not fit into your nutrition plan right now, you can still enjoy the iconic flavor profile and support your macros with this King Cake Protein Smoothie. A native New Orleanian recently told me it's her favorite smoothie recipe - high praise indeed! Laissez les bons temps rouler!
King Cake Protein Smoothie
Place one date in 1/2 cup of hot water to soften for 3-5 minutes.
Blend together 1 1/2 cups of milk of choice, 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder of choice, 1/2 banana, 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract, 1/4 tsp. almond extract, 1 TBS powdered almond butter, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, the softened date, and ice.
Sprinkle the top with cinnamon and enjoy!