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Simple Cranberry Smoothie with Fresh or Frozen Cranberries Recipe


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4.3 from 12 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This Simple Cranberry Smoothie is a quick, refreshing, and healthy drink perfect for breakfast or a nutritious snack. Featuring fresh or frozen cranberries, banana, and a blend of dairy-free yogurt and non-dairy milk, it offers a vibrant tartness with creamy texture and a hint of natural sweetness from maple syrup and optional orange juice and ginger. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s an easy way to enjoy antioxidant-rich cranberries in a delicious smoothie form.


Ingredients

Smoothie Ingredients

  • 1 frozen banana
  • 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened yogurt (dairy-free preferred)
  • 3/4 cup non-dairy milk (or water as substitute)
  • 1/4 cup orange juice (optional, or substitute additional milk)
  • 1-3 teaspoons maple syrup (plus more to taste)
  • Dash of vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/2 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled (optional)


Instructions

  1. Prepare ingredients: Gather all ingredients including frozen banana, cranberries, unsweetened yogurt, non-dairy milk, orange juice (if using), maple syrup, vanilla extract, and fresh ginger (optional). Peel the ginger piece if using for added aroma and slight spice.
  2. Blend the smoothie: Add all ingredients into a high-speed blender. Blend on high for 45 to 60 seconds until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no chunks remaining. This ensures a consistent texture that’s easy to drink.
  3. Adjust sweetness: Taste the smoothie after blending and add more maple syrup if a sweeter flavor is desired. Blend again briefly if additional syrup is added to incorporate evenly.
  4. Serve immediately: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy fresh to take advantage of the vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits.

Notes

  • Use frozen bananas and cranberries to achieve a chilled, thick smoothie texture without needing ice.
  • Substitute non-dairy milk with water for a lighter, lower-calorie option.
  • Orange juice adds a citrusy brightness, but can be omitted or replaced with more milk.
  • Fresh ginger adds a spicy kick and anti-inflammatory benefits but is optional for sensitive palates.
  • Adjust maple syrup quantity based on sweetness preference and cranberry tartness.
  • Serve immediately after blending to maintain freshness and texture.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Smoothies
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American