This Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino Recipe Is the IT Drink of 2020

I don’t know about you, but I created a very powerful association between relaxation and Starbucks. Whether we talk about tea, coffee or even those delicious cookies, everything about this place and its products sends me on a cozy vacation in the mountains.

And I think we all need that during a pandemic.

As tasty as their beverages may be, though, consuming Starbucks daily can have a negative impact in the long run. Most of their products are over-loaded with sugar which is often linked to heart disease – a leading cause of death in our country (as per Progress in Cardiovascular Diseases Journal studies).

Luckily, I have some good news for you: after testing probably a dozen “Starbucks” at-home beverage recipes, I finally found one that is both healthy and extremely tasty.

I’ll be honest: I’m not claiming that this is just like the real deal. However, it is a good alternative to reduce the sugar intake you get from the real deal.

If you’re ready, let’s shake it up and check out the recipe:

Starbucks Mocha Frappuccino Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup black coffee. Coffee enthusiasts know this is the start of every perfect morning. High-quality caffeine puts your neurons to work and might even help you burn fat as soon as you wake up, according to this study.
• ½ medium banana. If coffee usually improves your mood, just wait until you add bananas in the mix! Aside from their natural sweetness and nutritious content, science has found that bananas reduce the risk of anxiety and depression while boosting the feel-good hormone: serotonin. Additionally, this ingredient also gives your beverage that delicious thick texture.
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder. An excellent source of antioxidants, cocoa is the it ingredient that adds the ‘mocha’ to your Frappuccino. Make sure you choose a non-sweetened option to maximize the health benefits.
• 2 tbsp chia seeds. Over the past few years, all eyes have been on these tiny guys due to their surprising amount of health benefits. From offering plenty of nutrients (fiber, manganese and calcium are just a few) to their antioxidant content, chia seeds basically make you healthier without even feeling they’re in there. You can check out their full range of benefits right here.
• 1 tbsp light agave. I like to use agave instead of sugar due to its low glycemic content, as well as its immunity-boosting properties. If you’re not into its flavor, you can substitute it for natural honey.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract. Using pure vanilla extract in your beverages (and desserts) can reduce cholesterol levels in the long run. Much like chia seeds, this is also an excellent source of antioxidants which protect your cells from toxic free radicals found in the environment.

Captain’s Tip: Look for an organic Agave nectar or syrup like this one, since most products contain artificial sweeteners, flavors or preservatives.

Directions:

1. Add the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Enjoy!

Looking for something just as creamy? Our Greek yogurt smoothie recipe may be just what you need to charge your batteries after a long day or post-workout!