Ultimate Summer Vanilla Bean Blended Drink (Vegan-Friendly & Naturally Sweetened)
Why Vanilla Bean Drinks Are Trending in Summer
Vanilla is no longer just for baking. In recent summer food trends across the U.S. and Canada, people are reaching for light, refreshing drinks with real, clean ingredients — and vanilla bean is taking center stage. With its rich aroma and comforting sweetness, vanilla adds luxury to even the simplest recipes.
This Vanilla Bean Blended Drink is:
- Naturally sweetened (no added sugar)
- Dairy-free and vegan (customizable)
- Rich in flavor thanks to real vanilla beans
- A cool, healthy twist on a milkshake or iced coffee
- Quick to make — under 5 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla bean pod | 1 whole pod | Split lengthwise, seeds scraped out |
| Frozen banana | 1 medium | Adds natural sweetness and creamy texture |
| Almond milk (or oat milk) | 1 cup (240ml) | Choose your favorite dairy-free milk |
| Ice cubes | 1 cup (about 140g) | For frosty consistency |
| Maple syrup (optional) | 1 tsp | If you like a little extra sweetness |
| Pinch of sea salt | Small pinch | Enhances overall flavor |
Optional Toppings:
- Coconut whipped cream
- Chocolate curls or cinnamon dusting
- Fresh mint leaves
- Crushed vanilla bean on top (for visual appeal)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vanilla Bean
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the vanilla bean pod lengthwise.
- With the back of the knife, scrape out the tiny black seeds — this is the flavor gold.
- Set aside the seeds. You can save the empty pod to infuse milk, syrup, or sugar later.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Blender
- In a high-powered blender, add:
- Frozen banana
- Vanilla bean seeds
- Almond milk
- Ice cubes
- Optional: maple syrup and sea salt
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
- Blend on high for about 45–60 seconds, or until the drink is ultra-smooth and creamy.
- The texture should be thick, frothy, and pourable.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
- Taste the drink. If you want it sweeter, add a touch more maple syrup.
- If it’s too thick, splash in more milk.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
- Pour into a tall chilled glass or mason jar.
- Top with your choice of whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a mint sprig.
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Add protein: Toss in 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder or collagen.
- Make it a breakfast smoothie: Blend in 2 tbsp oats and 1 tbsp nut butter.
- For a caffeine twist: Add a shot of espresso for a Vanilla Bean Iced Coffee Smoothie.
- Tropical twist: Add pineapple chunks or mango for a summer-vacation feel.
- Extra chill: Freeze your almond milk into ice cubes for a thicker drink.