Recipe Details
Inspired by Frozen Berries: A Cinnamon-Kissed Smoothie Recipe
Inspiration & Flavor Profile
This week, a routine freezer organization revealed a partially filled bag of frozen mixed berries—an unexpected reminder of seasonal abundance and a perfect catalyst for crafting a nourishing smoothie. The key to elevating this beverage lies in ground cinnamon, which imparts a warm, aromatic depth that harmonizes beautifully with the berries’ natural sweetness, creating a balanced, comforting flavor profile.
Ingredients (Serves 1)
Frozen mixed berries: 150–200g (a blend of blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries; frozen state preserves texture and minimizes excess moisture)
Liquid base: 200ml (e.g., unsweetened almond milk, coconut water, or plain yogurt for creaminess)
Ground cinnamon: ¼ teaspoon (adjust to taste; ½ teaspoon for a more pronounced spice note)
Optional additions: 1–2 tablespoons of honey/agave (for sweetness), or a squeeze of lime juice (to brighten acidity)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Assemble Ingredients: Measure the frozen berries, liquid base, cinnamon, and optional sweeteners into a blender. Use frozen berries directly (no need to thaw—this preserves the smoothie’s thickness and prevents dilution).
Blend to Smoothness: Secure the blender lid and blend on high speed for 45–60 seconds, or until the mixture reaches a silky, lump-free consistency. If using a high-powered blender, the texture will be nearly seedless; for standard blenders, aim for thorough emulsification of berries and liquid.
Refine Texture (Straining): To eliminate residual seed particles (notably from raspberries or strawberries) and achieve an ultra-smooth finish, pour the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or nut milk bag. This step transforms the base from “berry-forward” to “velvety-smooth,” addressing the texture preference for seed-free enjoyment.
Serve & Savor: Pour the strained smoothie into a chilled glass, garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon or a fresh berry slice, and enjoy immediately for maximum freshness.
Pro Tips
Consistency Control: For a thicker smoothie, reduce the liquid base by 2–3 tablespoons or add a splash of Greek yogurt before blending.
Cinnamon Customization: For a milder profile, use ⅛ teaspoon of cinnamon; for bold spice, increase to ½ teaspoon.
Efficiency: Pre-portioned frozen berries in small bags can simplify prep—label them by date for easy retrieval.
This recipe balances the natural vibrancy of berries with the warming complexity of cinnamon, delivering a refreshing, nutrient-dense beverage that’s both easy to make and tailored to individual texture preferences.