Cranberry Orange Honey Smoothie

Cranberry Orange Honey Smoothie

Description

This refreshing Cranberry Orange Honey Smoothie is a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and citrusy flavors. Fresh or frozen cranberries bring a tart zing, oranges add a juicy burst of vitamin C, and honey offers natural sweetness with a floral undertone. It’s a vibrant, nutrient-packed drink that’s both energizing and immune-boosting — ideal for breakfast, post-workout recovery, or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients For Cranberry Orange Honey Smoothie

• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

• 1 cup fresh orange juice (about 2 medium oranges)

• 1 banana (for creaminess)

• 2 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)

• ½ cup Greek yogurt or plain yogurt

• ½ cup cold water or almond milk (for a creamier texture)

• ½ tsp grated fresh ginger (optional, for a warming kick)

• Ice cubes (optional, for a chilled smoothie)

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients – If using fresh cranberries, rinse well. Peel the oranges and remove seeds.

2. Add to blender – Place cranberries, orange juice, banana, yogurt, honey, and liquid of choice into the blender.

3. Blend until smooth – Start on low speed, then increase to high until creamy.

4. Adjust sweetness – Taste and add more honey if desired.

5. Serve – Pour into glasses, add ice if you like, and enjoy immediately for best flavor and nutrition.

Notes

• Frozen cranberries make the smoothie extra cold and refreshing — no ice needed.

• If you prefer a thinner smoothie, add more orange juice or water.

• Use raw honey for maximum health benefits.

• For dairy-free, swap yogurt with coconut yogurt or soy yogurt.

Tips

• Add chia seeds or ground flaxseed for extra fiber and omega-3s.

• Blend with a few fresh mint leaves for a cool twist.

• For a protein boost, add a scoop of vanilla protein powder.

• If cranberries are too tart for your liking, use half cranberries and half strawberries.

Servings

• Makes 2 servings

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

• Calories: 180

• Protein: 5g

• Carbs: 42g

• Sugars: 31g (natural)

• Fat: 1g

• Fiber: 6g

• Vitamin C: 120% DV

• Calcium: 10% DV

Benefits

• Immune Support: Cranberries and oranges are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

• Digestive Health: Fiber from fruits aids digestion.

• Anti-inflammatory: Cranberries and honey have natural anti-inflammatory properties.

• Heart Health: The polyphenols in cranberries may help improve cholesterol levels.

• Natural Energy Boost: Honey provides quick-release energy without refined sugar.

Q & A

Q1: Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
A: Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If storing, keep in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to 24 hours and shake before drinking.

Q2: Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
A: Fresh juice is best for flavor and nutrients, but 100% no-sugar-added bottled juice works too.

Q3: Can I replace honey with another sweetener?
A: Yes — maple syrup, agave nectar, or dates work well.

Q4: Is this smoothie good for weight loss?
A: It can be part of a balanced weight-loss plan, especially if you reduce the honey and use low-fat yogurt.

Q5: Can I make this smoothie vegan?
A: Absolutely — use plant-based yogurt and swap honey with maple syrup or agave.