Peanut Punch is one of the most beloved drinks in Trinidad and Tobago. Known for its rich, creamy texture and energizing flavor, it’s the perfect go-to drink for late evenings when you need a little pick-me-up.

Being a Trini gyal, means peanut punch was the staple for late-night gatherings or simply unwinding at home. Packed with protein and a touch of sweetness, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.

In this recipe, I’ll walk you through a simple yet delicious way to make traditional Trini peanut punch with a few extra twists.

Classic Trini Peanut Punch Recipe

Ingredients:

1 ripe banana
1/4 cup condensed milk
1 cup Nestlé evaporated milk
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
A dash of Angostura Bitters
1/2 cup ice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Peel the banana and cut it into smaller pieces. This will make it easier to blend smoothly.

Blend the Base:

In a blender, add the ripe banana, peanut butter, and condensed milk. Blend until the banana is fully incorporated, forming a smooth base.

Add the Milk and Flavorings:

Pour in the evaporated milk, vanilla essence, and ground cinnamon. Blend again for about 30 seconds to mix the flavors thoroughly.

Adjust the Consistency:

If the punch is too thick, add a little water or ice. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Add Bitters:

Finally, add a dash of Angostura Bitters. This is optional but adds a distinctive Trini touch to the punch.

Serve and Enjoy:

Pour the peanut punch into a tall glass, and if you like, sprinkle a bit more cinnamon on top. Serve chilled for a refreshing taste.

The Benefits of Peanut Punch

High Protein Content: Peanut butter is a rich source of protein, which helps in muscle repair and maintenance. This makes peanut punch a great post-workout drink or an afternoon snack that keeps you full.

Rich in Healthy Fats: The natural fats in peanuts are heart-healthy and can help lower bad cholesterol.

Natural Energy Boost: With a combination of protein, fats, and the natural sugars from bananas and condensed milk, peanut punch provides sustained energy, perfect for those days when you need an extra lift.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Peanuts are high in vitamins E and B3, magnesium, and antioxidants, while bananas add potassium to the mix.

Improves Digestion: The fiber in bananas and peanuts can aid digestion and promote gut health.

Healthier Substitutes

For those looking to make a healthier version of this traditional drink, here are some substitutions that keep the flavor while reducing the sugar and fat content:

Replace Condensed Milk with Honey or Agave Syrup:

Condensed milk adds sweetness, but it’s high in sugar. A tablespoon of honey or agave syrup can be used instead for a more natural, lower-sugar option.

Swap Peanut Butter with Raw Peanuts:

Using raw, unsalted peanuts instead of peanut butter gives a fresher taste and cuts down on added oils and sugars found in some peanut butter brands. You’ll just need to blend a little longer to ensure a smooth texture.

Use Almond Milk or Coconut Milk in Place of Evaporated Milk:

For a dairy-free or lower-fat option, almond or coconut milk works well and still provides a creamy texture.

Add More Fruit Instead of Sugar:

Adding extra banana or even a few dates can naturally sweeten the punch, allowing you to skip the condensed milk entirely.

Use a Dash of Cinnamon and Nutmeg for Flavor Instead of Bitters:

If you want to skip the bitters, cinnamon and nutmeg can give the punch an equally rich taste without any alcohol content.

Customization Tips to Make It Your Own

Add Oats: For a thicker punch, especially if you’re making it as a meal replacement, add a couple of tablespoons of oats to the blender. They blend easily and add a slight nutty flavor.
Use Frozen Banana: Using frozen banana chunks instead of fresh ones makes the punch even thicker and colder, almost like a milkshake.
Experiment with Nut Milks: Peanut punch also tastes delicious with almond milk or cashew milk if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
Make It Spicy: Some people like to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the punch a little kick! This isn’t traditional but can add an interesting twist.

Conclusion

Peanut punch is a delicious, versatile drink that’s perfect for any time of the day. Whether you’re making it the traditional way with condensed and evaporated milk or opting for a healthier twist, this drink always delivers on flavor and nutrition.

With its rich protein content, heart-healthy fats, and natural sugars, peanut punch is more than just a tasty treat; it’s a satisfying, energy-boosting drink that brings a piece of Trinidad right into your home.