A thick, glossy protein smoothie built on cooled espresso, frozen banana, and peanut butter - salt-defined and finished with Maldon. The creatine disappears into the liquid. The espresso keeps it from going full dessert.
Why You'll Love This Smoothie
This is the smoothie that earns its place in a real morning routine. Espresso cuts the sweetness of banana and peanut butter so it never skews cloying. Protein powder and creatine go in with the liquid first - so they vanish completely, no chalk, no texture issues. A frozen banana does the work of both ice and sweetener. The Maldon finish isn't decoration. It's what makes the first sip land.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a fully frozen banana - it controls thickness without diluting with ice.
- Blend protein and creatine with liquid first, before adding the banana. Doing it in reverse will leave chalky pockets.
- If the smoothie feels flat, increase salt slightly before reaching for anything sweet.
- For a lighter texture, add 1 - 2 tablespoon cold almond milk at the end and pulse.
Variations
- Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a cleaner, less dominant nut profile.
- Add 1 teaspoon cocoa powder for a mocha variation.
- Replace espresso with cold brew for a smoother, less sharp coffee profile.
Substitutions
- Almond milk → Oat milk (richer, slightly sweeter result)
- Peanut butter → Tahini (more savory, less sweet)
- Banana → Frozen dates (denser, more caramel-like sweetness)
Best served with
- A glass of water alongside - creatine hydration.
- Nothing. Drink it and move.
How to Store Leftovers
Best consumed immediately. If needed, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. Shake or re-blend before drinking.
Common Questions
Can I taste the creatine?
No. When fully dissolved into the liquid phase before blending, it is completely neutral.
Do I need the espresso?
No - but it balances the sweetness and adds depth. Without it, the smoothie skews more dessert than functional.
Why finish with Maldon salt?
It creates contrast on the first sip. The flake dissolves unevenly, which means every sip hits slightly differently. That's the point.
Can I use a different protein powder?
Yes. Any unflavored or vanilla protein powder works. Chocolate protein makes this a mocha - not a bad call.

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