Cranberry Orange Smoothie (Printable version)
Vibrant blend of cranberries, orange, banana, and creamy yogurt for a refreshing morning boost.
# What You'll Need:
→ Fruit
01 - 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
02 - 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
03 - 1 ripe banana
→ Liquids
04 - 1 cup orange juice, preferably freshly squeezed
05 - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt for vegan option
→ Sweeteners & Additions
06 - 1 to 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, adjusted to taste
07 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Optional
08 - 1/2 cup ice cubes for a colder, thicker texture
# Directions:
01 - Place cranberries, orange segments, banana, orange juice, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract into a blender.
02 - Incorporate ice cubes if a thicker and colder consistency is preferred.
03 - Process on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
04 - Taste the smoothie and add additional honey or maple syrup as desired.
05 - Pour into serving glasses and serve immediately for best freshness.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- It's ready in five minutes flat, making it perfect for mornings when you're rushing but refuse to skip breakfast.
- The cranberry-orange combination is naturally sweet and tart in the most satisfying way, like a hug in a glass.
- You can make it vegan or dairy-free without losing a shred of creaminess and flavor.
02 -
- Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh and often blend more smoothly—I used to think fresh was essential until a winter day proved me wrong.
- Don't skip the vanilla extract; it's subtle but completely transforms how all the flavors come together as one harmony.
03 -
- Frozen fruit blends faster and creates a naturally colder smoothie, so thaw your cranberries slightly if they seem too solid.
- If your smoothie separates while sitting, give it a gentle stir rather than blending again—it keeps the texture lighter.