
This refreshing banana-blueberry smoothie has become my go-to breakfast option when I need something quick yet nutritious. The perfect balance of sweet bananas and tart blueberries creates a beautiful purple drink that tastes as good as it looks.
I first created this smoothie recipe when trying to get my picky nephew to eat more fruit. Now he requests his "purple power drink" every time he visits, and I'm more than happy to oblige.
Key Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas: For natural sweetness and creamy texture. Look for ones with brown spots for maximum sweetness
- 150g blueberries: Fresh or frozen work equally well. Wild blueberries offer more intense flavor if you can find them
- 200g plain yogurt: Adds protein and creates that perfect smoothie consistency
- 2 tablespoons honey: Adjust according to how sweet your bananas are
- 250ml almond milk: Use vanilla almond milk for extra flavor or any milk of your choice
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients:
- Peel the bananas and break them into chunks that will blend easily. If using frozen blueberries, allow them to thaw slightly for about 5 minutes so they blend more smoothly without straining your blender.
- Combine Everything:
- Add all ingredients to your blender in this order: almond milk first, followed by yogurt, honey, blueberries, and finally bananas. This layering helps the blender create a vortex for smoother blending.
- Blend Until Smooth:
- Start on low speed for 10 seconds, then gradually increase to high speed. Blend for approximately 45 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth with no visible fruit chunks. The smoothie should have a vibrant purple color and pourable yet thick consistency.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If your smoothie is too thick, add more almond milk one tablespoon at a time. If too thin, add a few ice cubes or more frozen blueberries and blend again.
- Serve Immediately:
- Pour into glasses and enjoy right away while the smoothie is still cold and fresh. The natural separation can occur if left sitting too long.
My favorite part of this smoothie is how the blueberries transform an ordinary banana smoothie into something special. My daughter calls it "magical color-changing juice" since it starts out looking beige when you first add the ingredients but turns vibrant purple once blended.
Make It Your Own
This smoothie recipe welcomes customization based on your dietary preferences and what you have on hand. Greek yogurt can replace regular yogurt for extra protein. Plant-based yogurt works perfectly for a vegan version. The honey can be swapped for maple syrup, agave, or dates. Feel free to add a tablespoon of chia seeds, flaxseeds, or a scoop of protein powder to make it even more nutritious.
Storage Tips
While this smoothie tastes best when freshly made, you can prepare it in advance. Store in airtight glass containers filled to the top to prevent oxidation for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. The color may darken slightly but the flavor remains delicious. Another great option is to prepare smoothie packs by portioning all ingredients except the liquids into freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, simply dump the frozen ingredients into the blender, add the almond milk and yogurt, and blend.
Perfect Pairings
This banana-blueberry smoothie pairs wonderfully with breakfast foods like overnight oats, whole-grain toast with almond butter, or a simple egg white omelet. For a complete meal, add a handful of granola on top to create a smoothie bowl that you can eat with a spoon. The smoothie also makes a fantastic afternoon pick-me-up alongside a small handful of nuts for sustained energy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen blueberries in this smoothie?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries. Just let them defrost slightly before blending to ensure a smoother texture.
- → What can I use if I don’t have almond milk?
You can substitute almond milk with regular milk, oat milk, or any milk alternative of your choice for a similar result.
- → How can I make this smoothie sweeter?
You can add more honey or even use a ripe banana to naturally increase the sweetness.
- → Can I prepare this smoothie in advance?
It’s best to enjoy the smoothie fresh, but you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well before drinking.
- → What toppings work well with this smoothie?
Garnish it with extra blueberries, banana slices, a sprinkle of granola, or even a light dusting of cinnamon for added flavor and texture.