Desert Date Shake

5 from 1 vote

Slightly sweet, perfectly creamy, and naturally refreshing—this Desert Date Shake is the ultimate cool treat for hot summer days! You’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes.

desert date shake feature

Why I Love This Recipe

Hey there, fabulous foodies! It’s Chef AJ, your Queen of Quick and Easy, here to share my delightful Desert Date Shake, from my latest book, Sweet Indulgence. This recipe is a cool and refreshing treat perfect for those scorching summer days.

There seems to be some controversy over who invented the Date Shake. One account gives the credit to Russell Nicoll’s Valerie Jean Date Shop in Thermal, California, around 1930. Thermal, located in the Coachella Valley, is well-named because it can get brutally hot in the summer, hence the need for a cool, refreshing drink. Another theory is that a nearby date farmer named Floyd Shields invented the Date Shake. I don’t know which of these gentlemen deserves the credit. All I know is that you’re better off drinking my healthier version, made without any dairy or sugar.

What I love about this shake is its rich, creamy texture and natural sweetness from Medjool dates and ripe bananas. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and can be whipped up in no time. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert, this Date Shake is the perfect choice.

Key Ingredients

  • Unsweetened Plant Milk: Provides a creamy base for the shake. Almond, soy, or oat milk works well.
  • Medjool Dates: Naturally sweet and rich in fiber and essential minerals like potassium and magnesium.
  • Frozen Bananas: Add creaminess and sweetness without the need for added sugars. They are also a great source of vitamins and minerals.
  • Vanilla Bean Powder: Adds a deep, rich vanilla flavor that enhances the overall taste of the shake. It’s crucial to use vanilla bean powder instead of extract for the best flavor.
  • Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and complexity to the shake.
  • Gluten-Free Rolled Oats: Provide thickness and a boost of fiber.
  • Chia Seeds: Add omega-3 fatty acids and help thicken the shake.
  • Ice Cubes: Ensure the shake is cold and refreshing, perfect for hot days.

The Process

Making this Desert Date Shake is a breeze. Start by placing all the ingredients—unsweetened plant milk, pitted Medjool dates, frozen bananas, vanilla bean powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, gluten-free rolled oats, and chia seeds—into a high-speed blender.

Blend until smooth and creamy. Add 1-2 cups of ice cubes and blend again until you reach the desired thickness. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing, creamy goodness!

Chef’s Tips

  • The secret to the perfect date shake is the vanilla bean powder. Please do not use vanilla extract in its place for the best flavor.
  • With a retail date shake costing ten dollars or more, you’ll save money making your own at home.
  • Adjust the amount of ice to achieve your preferred thickness. More ice will make the shake thicker and frostier.
  • For a nut-free version, use oat milk or soy milk instead of almond milk.

How to Store Desert Date Shake

While this shake is best enjoyed fresh, you can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a day. Give it a good stir or shake before drinking, as separation may occur.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh bananas instead of frozen?

Frozen bananas are recommended for the creamy texture, but you can use fresh bananas if needed. Just add extra ice to compensate.

What if I don’t have vanilla bean powder?

Vanilla bean powder is key for the best flavor! You can find it here.

Serving Suggestion

Enjoy this Desert Date Shake as a delicious breakfast, post-workout snack, or a healthy dessert. It’s perfect on its own, but you can also top it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or some chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Summary

The Desert Date Shake is a creamy, sweet, and refreshing treat that’s perfect for hot days. With wholesome ingredients like Medjool dates, ripe bananas, and a touch of vanilla bean powder, it’s a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional milkshakes.

If you tried this recipe, I’d love to see your results! Share your culinary creation on social media and tag me. As the Queen of Quick and Easy, nothing makes me happier than seeing how my convenient plant-based recipes inspire your kitchen adventures. Let’s celebrate the love of cooking and enjoy the deliciousness together!

desert date shake feature
5 from 1 vote

Desert Date Shake

Slightly sweet, perfectly creamy, and naturally refreshing—this Date Shake is the ultimate cool treat for hot summer days! You'll love how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes.
Servings: 2

Equipment

  • High-speed blender

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup unsweetened plant milk
  • 3 large Medjool dates, pitted
  • 2 large, very ripe bananas, frozen, about 1 cup
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean powder
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • tsp nutmeg
  • ¼ cup gluten-free rolled oats
  • 1 tsp chia seeds
  • 1-2 cups ice cubes
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Instructions 

  • Place all ingredients in a high-speed blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Add ice cubes and blend again until desired thickness is reached.

Notes

The secret to the perfect date shake is the vanilla bean powder. Please do not use vanilla extract in its place. With a retail date shake costing ten dollars or more, you’ll still save money making your own.
Like this recipe? Rate and comment below!

About Chef AJ

Hey there, I’m Chef AJ, the Queen of Quick and Easy plant-based recipes. I’m the culinary wizard behind delicious dishes that are oil-free, refined sugar-free, and salt-free. As a chef, author, and host, I’m passionate about creating convenient and easy recipes that make healthy eating fun and incredibly tasty!

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