Make Ahead Smoothies
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Whether you're a seasoned meal prepper or just starting a fresh new routine, these make ahead smoothies need to be added to your rotation. This takes all the guesswork out of your morning routine or snacks so that you can grab n' go with a nutritious and delicious sip in hand.
Try this spinach smoothie for a variation heavy on the greens, or this banana bread smoothie for something more fun!
You know that saying āfail to plan, plan to failā ā it's a bit harsh, right? We prefer to have these make ahead smoothies on deck so that you always have something bright and healthy to reach for.
All you need to make these are a couple of ingredients, a high-powered blender, and some freezer-friendly storage containers.
Can you make smoothies ahead of time?
Smoothies are a great option to make ahead when time is on your side. This way, when the days get long or busy, all you have to do is reach into your freezer, thaw, and shake.
To make smoothies in advance, you'll add your ingredients to a blender and combine well. Pour your smoothies into reusable, freezer-appropriate jars or containers and store frozen for up to 3 months.
Ingredients needed
For these make ahead smoothies, we went heavy on the berries for sweetness, added some spinach for extra nutrients, and blended in milk and protein powder. Here's what you'll need to pick up at the store:
- Berries: You can use the berry you like best, or go for a mixed berry smoothie. You can add fresh or frozen berries to this recipe.
- Milk: It's your choice which milk you choose to include. To keep it dairy-free, you can use soy milk, almond milk, or oat milk.
- Spinach: This leafy green is a nutrient powerhouse; you can add fresh or frozen spinach to this recipe to reap the benefits of iron, Vitamin C & E.
- Banana: Add one banana to your blender for some sweetness and to add a creamy texture.
- Protein Powder: This is optional, however, if you have a favorite protein powder, you can absolutely include it in this recipe. Unflavored or vanilla protein powder work best.
How to make a smoothie ahead of time
The beauty of smoothie prep is that it takes no time at all, and is so simple ā your future self will undoubtedly thank you.
- Blend: Add all the ingredients to a blender and mix until well combined.
- Pour into freezer jars: Divide the smoothie into 2 jars, leaving space at the top before sealing.
- Freeze: Pop your smoothies into the freezer and store them for up to 3 months.
Variations to try
This make ahead smoothie recipe really is your canvas! You can absolutely adjust to your liking, or try some of these variations to mix it up:
- Fruits: If mixed berries isn't what you're feeling, you can try single berry smoothies like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries. Any of these individual berries will taste great with banana and spinach. Or, try a tropical blend using either mango, oranges, or pineapple.
- Veggies: You can play with the leafy greens to include in your smoothies, so instead of spinach try kale. You can also add avocado for a dose of healthy fat that will also contribute to creaminess. Sweet potatoes, cucumbers and beets are also great veg options.
- Protein: If you aren't dabbling in the protein powder, you can include high-protein yogurt, add hemp seeds, or nut butters like peanut butter or almond butter.
Recipe FAQs
How can I add fiber to my smoothies?
Spinach and berries are both good sources of fiber and are already included in this recipe. However, you can also include chia seeds, avocado, pears, or cocoa powder to increase the fiber.
How long will smoothies keep in the freezer?
You can freeze a smoothie for up to 3 months.
How to thaw a frozen smoothie?
Take your make ahead smoothie out of the freezer before you're ready to drink it. Let it sit on your counter for about 1 hour to thaw and then give it a good shake to stir up the contents. To speed up the process, put it into the microwave for about 30 seconds. Enjoy!
What kind of smoothie jars should I use?
Make sure that the jars you use are freezer-safe. Mason jars, or other canning jars, are a great option. These are the jars we used in the pictures.
Can you recommend other make ahead breakfast recipes?
Yes! Try these raspberry overnight oats!
Make Ahead Smoothies
Ingredients
- 1 Ā½ cups milk of choice (see notes)
- 1 Ā½ cups frozen berries
- 2 scoops protein powder (optional)
- 1 medium banana
- Ā½ cup spinach
Instructions
- Add the milk, berries, protein powder if using, banana, and spinach to your blender. Blend on high speed until smooth.1 Ā½ cups milk of choice, 1 Ā½ cups frozen berries, 2 scoops protein powder, 1 medium banana, Ā½ cup spinach
- Pour the smoothie into two 2-cup mason jars, making sure there is at least 1 inch of space at the top. Seal the lids and then place them into your freezer for up to 3 months.
- To serve them, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw on the counter for 1 hour. OR remove the lid and microwave until it's no longer solid. Give the smoothie a good shake in the jar and then enjoy it right away.
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
For more inspiration, check out all of our smoothie recipes!
this looks great! cant wait to try it at home! thank you so much for the recipe and i love that you can make it ahead of time
I hope you love it as much as I do! It’s such a handy recipe for busy weekday mornings. š
when do we use the unsweetened coconut? and is it flakes, dessicated, or shredded?
I used flaked coconut, but only because I thought it would be prettiest for the pictures. You can use whatever kind you have on hand!
These looks soo delicious!! I love making breakfast the night before, it’s always such a treat to wake up to a delicious breakfast that’s already made! Will definitely give these a try.
It really is, isn’t it? Nothing better than coffee and already made breakfast to coax a person out of bed. š
These are gorgeous! I love starting my morning with smoothies and the tropical flavors sound perfect! So awesome that you can make these ahead of time too! š
I do, too! Smoothies really are the best way to start the day. š
Well you’re already about 100x more hip than me! I’ve never heard of a make-ahead smoothie or seen one…which is hard considering the amount of blogs, and social media I consume daily š Haha!
Ha ha I love it! You’re way more hip than I normally am with all your deelish gluten free goods!
How interesting. I didn’t know that chia seeds and coconut would thicken on their own. And the puree sounds really good!
I found that out the hard way once when I made a smoothie with chia seeds then walked away for a while. It was one of those overly green smoothies that are really best as drinks and not pudding lol. š