If you’ve ever craved something sweet after dark but still wanted to feel good about it, this Midnight Plum Cacao Swirl Smoothie is your new go-to. It blends juicy plum, frozen blueberries, and rich unsweetened cacao into a creamy, dessert-like drink that’s still firmly in “nourishing breakfast or snack” territory. The flavor feels luxurious—like a chocolate-berry treat—while the ingredients stay clean, vegan, and gluten-free. Best of all, it takes just minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings, post-workout fuel, or an evening reset.
This smoothie leans on naturally sweet fruit and a subtle chocolate note from cacao powder. Chia seeds add body and a satisfying thickness, while optional spinach and vegan protein powder let you dial up the nutrition without changing the taste much. If you like a thicker, frostier texture, a few ice cubes (or a frozen banana) will give you that spoonable, smoothie-shop consistency at home.
Midnight Plum Cacao Swirl Smoothie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 ripe plum (pitted)
- 1 small banana (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cacao powder
- 1 scoop vegan protein powder (optional)
- 1 cup baby spinach (optional)
- 4–6 ice cubes (optional)
How to Make a Midnight Plum Cacao Swirl Smoothie
- Pit the plum and peel the banana.
- Add the almond milk to your blender first. Then add frozen blueberries, plum, banana, chia seeds, and unsweetened cacao powder.
- Add baby spinach and/or vegan protein powder if using.
- Blend on high until completely smooth. If you want a thicker smoothie, add ice cubes and blend again.
- Taste and adjust thickness with a splash more almond milk. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Health Benefits of This Vegan Plum Cacao Smoothie
- Antioxidant support from blueberries and cacao: Frozen blueberries are known for their antioxidant content, and unsweetened cacao adds more plant compounds that complement the fruit-forward base.
- Fiber and satiety from chia seeds: Chia seeds naturally thicken smoothies and contribute fiber, which can help this drink feel more filling than a typical fruit-only blend.
- Natural sweetness with no added sugar: A ripe plum and banana provide plenty of sweetness, making it easier to skip syrups or sweetened yogurts.
- Optional greens without the “green” taste: Baby spinach blends in easily and is often undetectable once cacao and berries are in the mix, adding a simple nutrient boost.
- Easy post-workout option with protein: Adding vegan protein powder can turn this into a more balanced smoothie for recovery or a quick on-the-go meal.
- Vegan and gluten-free by design: With almond milk and whole-food ingredients, this recipe fits many dietary needs while still tasting like a treat.
Variations and Customizations
- Make it extra thick and creamy: Use a frozen banana and keep the almond milk closer to 3/4 cup, then add more only if needed. This creates a thick, milkshake-like texture.
- Turn it into a smoothie bowl: Reduce the almond milk, blend until very thick, then pour into a bowl and top with sliced plum, blueberries, cacao nibs, shredded coconut, or granola (choose gluten-free if needed).
- Add a nutty twist: Blend in 1 tbsp almond butter or peanut butter for a richer flavor and extra staying power.
- Intensify the chocolate flavor: Add an extra 1/2 tbsp cacao powder or a few cacao nibs. If you do, you may want an extra splash of almond milk to balance bitterness.
- Brighten it with citrus: A small squeeze of lemon can make the plum and blueberry flavors pop, especially if your fruit isn’t super ripe.
- Swap the milk: Oat milk (if certified gluten-free) makes it creamier; coconut milk adds tropical richness; soy milk increases protein even without powder.
- Low-ice, high-flavor option: Skip the ice cubes and rely on frozen blueberries (and a frozen banana) so you don’t dilute the taste.
- Kid-friendly version: If cacao feels too bold for young palates, start with 1/2 tbsp cacao and increase gradually.
Conclusion
This Midnight Plum Cacao Swirl Smoothie is the sweet-leaning, nourishing blend that hits the spot when you want something fruity, chocolatey, and easy. With blueberries for a bold berry base, plum for a juicy twist, cacao for depth, and chia for a satisfying texture, it’s a simple vegan smoothie that tastes far more indulgent than it is. Keep it classic, add spinach for a stealthy green boost, or include vegan protein powder to make it a more complete meal. Blend, pour, and enjoy right away for the best creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
