10 Delicious Variations of Nigerian Tiger Nut Date Cinnamon Smoothie (Kunnu Aya)
The classic Nigerian tiger nut-date-cinnamon smoothie (kunnu aya) is loved across the North, but Nigerians never stop remixing it! Here are 10 crowd-pleasing, 100 % plant-based variations you’ll find from Kano markets to Lagos Instagram pages.
1. Classic Hausa Kunnu Aya (The Original)
- Exactly the recipe above – tiger nuts + dates + cinnamon.
- Best for: Ramadan iftar, hot afternoons, or when you want the pure traditional taste.
2. Ginger-Spiced Kunnu (Zuma Style)
Northern favorite that clears the throat and warms the body.
- Add: 1-inch fresh ginger while blending.
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, digestion booster, perfect for colds.
3. Coconut Kunnu Aya (Lagos Creamy Dream)
Popular in Southern Nigeria and among the diaspora.
- Replace half the water with fresh coconut water or coconut milk.
- Taste: Tropical, richer mouthfeel.
- Best for: Breakfast or kids who love creamy drinks.
4. Chocolate Tiger Nut Smoothie (Abuja Café Special)
Modern twist that tastes like liquid bounty bar.
- Add: 1–2 tbsp raw cacao powder + extra 2 dates.
- Optional: Pinch of sea salt.
- Best for: Chocolate lovers and post-workout recovery.
5. Banana-Date Kunnu (Kid-Friendly Version)
Sweeter and thicker – perfect for children.
- Add: 1 frozen ripe banana.
- Result: Ice-cream-like texture, naturally sweeter.
6. Tiger Nut-Moringa Green Power Smoothie
Trending in wellness circles in Abuja and Port Harcourt.
- Add: 1 tsp moringa powder or handful fresh moringa leaves.
- Benefits: Iron + protein boost, great for anemia and energy.
7. Tiger Nut-Turmeric Golden Milk (Anti-Inflammatory Bomb)
The golden version for joints and immunity.
- Add: ½ tsp turmeric + pinch black pepper + extra cinnamon.
- Optional: Touch of honey if you like it sweeter.
8. Coffee Kunnu Aya (Morning Energy Kick)
Northern Nigeria’s answer to iced coffee.
- Add: 1 shot cold brew or strong instant coffee (dissolved).
- Best for: Replacing sugary coffee creamer drinks.
9. Strawberry or Zobo-Infused Kunnu
Beautiful pink color and tangy flavor.
- Add: ½ cup fresh strawberries OR 100 ml cooled zobo (hibiscus tea).
- Perfect for: Valentine’s Day or ladies’ gatherings.
10. Tiger Nut-Peanut Butter Power Smoothie (Gym Edition)
High-protein version loved by Nigerian fitness enthusiasts.
- Add: 1–2 tbsp natural peanut butter + extra dates for energy.
- Result: Thick, filling, 12–15g protein per glass.
Quick Comparison Table
| Variation | Main Add-in | Best For | Sweetness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | – | Traditional taste | ★★★ |
| Ginger | Fresh ginger | Colds & digestion | ★★ |
| Coconut | Coconut milk/water | Creamy breakfast | ★★★★ |
| Chocolate | Cacao powder | Chocolate craving | ★★★★★ |
| Banana | Frozen banana | Kids & dessert | ★★★★★ |
| Moringa | Moringa powder | Anemia & energy | ★★★ |
| Turmeric | Turmeric + pepper | Joint pain | ★★★ |
| Coffee | Cold coffee | Morning boost | ★★★ |
| Zobo/Strawberry | Hibiscus or berries | Pretty & tangy | ★★★★ |
| Peanut Butter | Peanut butter | Gym & satiety | ★★★★ |
Which variation are you blending first? Drop your favorite combo in the comments – Nigerians love to argue about whose kunnu aya is the sweetest or spiciest!