Winter Berry Smoothie Blend (Printable)
A vibrant blend of winter berries, banana, and warming spices for a nourishing morning boost.
# What You'll Need:
→ Fruits
01 - 1 cup frozen mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, cranberries)
02 - 1 ripe banana
→ Liquids
03 - 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or alternative plant-based or dairy milk)
04 - 1/2 cup orange juice
→ Flavorings & Boosters
05 - 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional)
08 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Add frozen berries, banana, almond milk, orange juice, maple syrup or honey (if using), ground cinnamon, chia seeds, and vanilla extract into a blender.
02 - Process on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, approximately 30 to 45 seconds.
03 - Taste and modify sweetness by adding additional maple syrup or honey if desired.
04 - Pour the smoothie evenly into two glasses and serve immediately.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It takes less time than brewing coffee but leaves you feeling energized and satisfied.
- The warming cinnamon makes it cozy instead of icy, even though it's cold.
- You can taste every berry without any artificial sweetness covering it up.
- It's forgiving—throw in what you have and it still works beautifully.
02 -
- If you add too much liquid at once, the smoothie turns thin and disappointing—start with less and add more only if the blender struggles.
- Room temperature bananas blend easier than frozen ones, but frozen bananas make it thicker if that's what you want.
- Chia seeds need a minute to hydrate, so if you wait 30 seconds after blending, the texture improves noticeably.
03 -
- Freeze your banana slices ahead of time if you want an even thicker, creamier result without adding ice.
- Use a high-speed blender if you have one—it makes the texture silkier and breaks down the chia seeds completely.
- Rinse your blender immediately after pouring so the berry stains don't set in.