banana cashew pudding with fresh figs

we call it pudding, but here is the full disclaimer: we are guilty for having this at breakfast. the name pudding quite honestly comes from our association of the smooth, creamy texture that this mixture produces, but without any dairy, refined sugar, or heat needed! of course we are big fans of breakfast smoothie bowls for their great combination of time efficiency and maximum flavor. we love this combination of banana and cashew for those end of summer days with the cooler, crisp air. the heartiness of the nut butter and the natural creaminess of the banana is like a healthy take on elvis' legendary sandwich, but one which goes great for a pre or post workout or run for the amount of quick-releasing energy it gives. we find that the natural cashews and its corresponding butter and a more subtle nuance that adds to the creamy texture. hence why it can totally pass as a lovely dessert as well. the fresh figs thrown on top which are best when seasonal, add a complementary burst of sweetness and flavor.

Recipe (serves two):

• 1/4 cup unsalted cashews, chopped
• 2 frozen bananas, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon cashew butter (at room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup cashew milk 

For garnish:

• black mission figs, quartered
• drizzle of natural honey
• hemp seeds, also called hemp hearts
• toasted granola, or organic oats

place the frozen banana slices, chopped cashews, and cashew milk in the blender and pulse just enough to blend the banana with the nuts. the cashew milk will help the frozen bananas from clumping. the key here is to keep the texture thick, so careful not to over-blend. add the nut butters, maple syrup, salt, and cinnamon to the mixture and continye blending in intervals. the nut butters will ensure the mixture will stay thick. feel free to swap the added peanut butter for more cashew butter instead, but we find the blend of the two keeps the cashew flavor subtle and not overbearing.

once blended, pour into two medium-sized bowls or ramekins. top with some banana slices, then with your, granola and hemp seeds over top. Quarter your figs and place them on top of the sliced bananas and oats to create a series of layers. Finish with a generous drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of sea salt. you can omit the figs for a different fruit that might pair well with bananas and nuts like blackberries, blueberries, apples, etc. but honestly, figs add that 'je nais sais quoi' to the expected flavors of bananas and nuts. and sometimes, these kinds of flavor surprises are necessary. enjoy!