Classic Caribbean Banana Punch (banana smoothie).
What’s a month of grilling without a refreshing dessert in a glass? There’s no better way to start (or finish) the day on those hot summer days, than a refreshing glass of banana punch. I guess for most people outside the Caribbean this would be called a ‘shake’ or smoothie, but as with all thick fruity drinks in the Caribbean.. it’s a punch! With ripe bananas and cold milk as the base, we’ll build on that foundation with some spices, rich vanilla ice cream and if you’d like to make this ‘big people’ exclusive, you can go in with some rum!
You’ll Need…
2 ripe bananas
1 cup vanilla ice cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoon honey
3 cups cold milk
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Basically all you have to do is place all the ingredients in a blender and give blitz until you have a smooth (and creamy) consistency. I didn’t add any ice to this as you’d normally do with a smoothie, but you can do so if you want to impress your kids. I don’t like adding ice to the blender (or in the glass I’m serving it in) as I find that it dilutes the overall flavor of the banana punch, so I start off with very cold milk.
You can always go in with some coconut flavored rum (or any rum you like) to give this banana punch a more grown-up appeal, and it’s also an excellent way to put overripe bananas to use. If you like banana bread, you’ll love the subtle notes of cinnamon and nutmeg in this drink. Do serve immediately.
Are you liking the food and drinks of this year’s July Month of Grilling? Do leave your comments below and kindly share the recipes on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook.
Special Note: This recipe is traditionally done with sweetened condensed milk and not necessarily the honey and ice cream my version adopts!
I live in the valley this was the best drink to keep cool. Some friends added a table spoon of rum. The frozen idea was great too.
I am form the Caribbean and we usually put a little essence into it (coconut, banana, or mixed essences are great). And yes it’s not the same without coconut milk. Peel and freeze overripe bananas. Some people add peanuts or peanut butter for more interesting notes in it.
yes….Peanut and Banana…is the best…its also healthier
When I make too much!! I add a little dash of lime or lemon juice to prevent the drink from turning brown in color.
Will be making this tonight. Thank you Chris.
I am making this with my daughter today!
Try freezing the bananas. That will help keep it cold. Make sure you peel them first