VANESSA LABRANCHE
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Recipes

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Creamy Coconut Oil Decaf Latte: A Cozy Morning Drink Without the Caffeine Crash

5/31/2026

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​There are mornings when I still want the comfort of coffee and I've made the switch with decaf coffee. Although this drink is decaf you get a gentle, natural energy boost from the combination of ingredients in this coffee drink.

This Creamy Coconut Oil Decaf Latte has become one of those simple drinks I reach for when I want something warm, rich, and satisfying without feeling overstimulated later.

Blending the coffee with coconut oil creates a creamy, almost coffeehouse-style texture that feels more special than plain coffee. Add a little vanilla and cinnamon and it becomes one of those cozy drinks that makes slowing down feel a little easier.
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I also like that it feels more sustaining than a basic cup of coffee. The coconut oil adds richness while creating a smooth, creamy texture without needing traditional creamers.

Why I Love It

​This latte feels:
• Smooth and comforting
• More satisfying than plain coffee
• Gentle compared to stronger caffeinated drinks
• Perfect for slower mornings, journaling, or focused work sessions

Creamy Coconut Oil Decaf Latte

​A rich, cozy decaf latte made with creamy coconut oil for a smooth coffeehouse feel — without the caffeine crash.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup freshly brewed decaf coffee
  • 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon organic coconut oil
  • ¼ cup warm coconut milk or soy milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Dash of cinnamon
  • Optional: maple syrup, honey, or monk fruit to taste

Directions:

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  • Brew your favorite decaf coffee.
  • Add the coffee, coconut oil, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon to a blender.
  • Blend for 15–20 seconds until creamy and frothy.
  • Alternatively, use a milk frother and whisk thoroughly.
  • Pour into your favorite mug.
  • Sprinkle with extra cinnamon if desired.

Optional Add-Ins

​• Collagen peptides
• Cacao powder
• MCT oil
• Cardamom
• Pumpkin spice blend
• Tiny pinch sea salt

​A little tip: If you're new to coconut oil in drinks, start with a smaller amount and work your way up. Blending creates the best café-style texture and helps keep everything smooth and creamy.
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Creamy Moringa Latte: A Cozy Coffee-Free Drink for Steady Energy

5/28/2026

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There may be times when you may want a warm drink that feels comforting without consuming a caffeinated drink.

This Creamy Moringa Latte has become one of those simple recipes I like making when I want something cozy, satisfying, and hits a little different.
Moringa has a mild earthy flavor that can feel strong on its own, but pairing it with creamy soy milk, coconut milk, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a softer, warmer flavor that reminds me of a coffee shop-style latte. But, without the hefty cost!
I also like that this recipe comes together quickly and can easily become part of a slower morning routine or an afternoon pause during a busy day.
For this recipe, I used Burst Organic Moringa Powder because I like having an organic moringa option on hand for smoothies and warm drinks like this. If you'd like to try the one I use, you can find it here:
Burst Organic Moringa Powder (affiliate disclosure: I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.)

Creamy Moringa Latte (Soy + Coconut Milk)

Ingredients:

​A cozy, coffee-free latte with earthy moringa, creamy coconut, and protein-rich soy milk for steady, nourishing energy.
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  • 1 teaspoon moringa powder
  • ¾ cup soy milk
  • ¼ cup coconut milk
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • Tiny pinch sea salt (optional)
  • Optional: cinnamon sprinkle on top

Directions:

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  • Warm the soy milk and coconut milk in a small saucepan over low-medium heat. Avoid boiling.
  • Add the moringa powder, cinnamon, vanilla, sweetener, and sea salt if using.
  • Whisk thoroughly or use a milk frother for a smooth and creamy texture.
  • Pour into your favorite mug.
  • Top with a light sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Optional Add-Ins

You can customize this latte based on what you enjoy:
• Collagen peptides
• Turmeric
• Cardamom
• Cacao powder
• Coconut oil for extra richness
• Adaptogens like ashwagandha
A little tip: If you're new to moringa, start with a smaller amount and adjust from there. The cinnamon and vanilla help create a warm, balanced flavor that makes it feel less earthy and more like a cozy latte experience.
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This Cocoa Beet Latte Feels Like Hot Chocolate with a Wellness Boost

5/25/2026

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There are some days when I want something warm and comforting, but I also want a little something extra beyond my usual cup of decaf coffee that gives me a natural boost of energy. 

This Cocoa Beet Latte has become one of those simple drinks that feels nourishing and cozy at the same time.

The flavor profile lands somewhere between hot cocoa, a lightly spiced latte, and a warm earthy drink with subtle sweetness. The cacao gives it richness, the cinnamon adds warmth, and the beet powder brings a naturally vibrant twist.

I also like that it takes just a few minutes to make. It's the kind of recipe that can fit into a slower morning routine or become a simple afternoon reset.
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For this recipe, I used KOS Organic Beet Root Powder because I like keeping a quality beet powder on hand for smoothies, drinks, and simple recipes like this. If you'd like to try the same one I use, you can find it here:  KOS Organic Beet Root Powder (affiliate link disclosure: I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.)

Cocoa Beet Latte

Ingredients:

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  • 1 tsp beet powder
  • 1 tsp cacao powder or cocoa powder
  • ¾ cup warm soy milk
  • ¼ cup coconut milk
  • Dash of cinnamon
  • Tiny splash vanilla extract
  • Optional: honey or maple syrup to taste

Directions:

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  1. Warm the soy milk and coconut milk in a small saucepan over low heat.
  2. Whisk in the beet powder, cacao powder, cinnamon, and vanilla.
  3. Continue stirring until smooth and warmed through.
  4. Sweeten if desired with a small drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
  5. Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy.
A little tip: If you want it extra frothy, blend it for a few seconds or use a milk frother before pouring into your mug.
Sometimes the simplest recipes end up becoming the ones you come back to again and again.
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Healthy Homemade Fruit Jam with Chia Seeds

5/12/2026

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There’s something so satisfying about making a simple homemade jam with real ingredients you can actually recognize. This Blueberry Strawberry Chia Seed Jam is naturally sweetened with a small amount of maple syrup and brightened with fresh lemon juice and zest for a fresh, vibrant flavor. It’s an easy recipe that feels special without requiring a lot of effort or refined sugar.

I especially love recipes like this because they can add both flavor and nourishment to everyday meals. I like to spread it on whole grain toast, swirl it into yogurt, spoon it over oatmeal, or adding to my protein shakes for an extra burst of berry flavor.

One of the things that makes this jam a little different is the addition of chia seeds. Instead of relying on large amounts of sugar or traditional pectin, chia seeds naturally help thicken the jam while also boosting the nutrition.

Chia seeds are a source of fiber, plant-based omega-3 fats, and minerals like calcium and magnesium. They also help create a more satisfying texture and can support fullness and digestion thanks to their fiber content.
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Combined with antioxidant-rich blueberries and strawberries, this jam becomes a simple way to add more nutrient-dense ingredients into your day while still enjoying something delicious and comforting.

Ingredients:

​2 cups strawberries, hulled and chopped or slice the strawberries in half for a chunkier finish
2 cups blueberries (I use wild blueberries for a sweeter finish)
2–3 tbsp maple syrup
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
3 tbsp chia seeds
Pinch of sea salt (optional)

Directions:

Add the strawberries and blueberries to a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to soften and release their juices.
Gently mash some of the fruit with the back of a spoon or potato masher, leaving a little texture if desired.
Stir in the maple syrup, lemon zest, lemon juice, and pinch of salt.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the chia seeds.
Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, stirring well.
Remove from heat and let the jam sit for about 10–15 minutes to thicken as the chia seeds absorb the liquid.
Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon if needed. Makes about 2 cups. Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.
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    Vanessa LaBranche/Chef Instructor-Culinary Educator

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