Start your day with a sip of sunshine: a bright, velvety easy fruit smoothie that smells like summertime, tastes like a sweet orchard, and slides across your tongue with a silky, ice-cold finish. The first notes are the floral-fruity perfume of ripe banana and berries, followed by a creamy, tangy undertone from yogurt and milk. Texture-wise it’s thick enough to feel indulgent but light enough to drink on the go — a perfect balance of comfort and refreshment.
This smoothie is ideal for busy mornings when you want a filling, nutritious breakfast in minutes, for cooling off after a workout, or as a crowd-pleasing addition to casual gatherings. It’s also a great back-pocket recipe for hot afternoons, or whenever you need a portable, wholesome treat. For an alternate take and inspiration, check out this similar guide to a simple smoothie on my site: Easy Fruit Smoothie Guide.
At a Glance
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Servings: 2 (about 2 x 12–16 oz servings)
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Highlights
Estimated nutrition per serving (recipe makes 2 servings). Values are approximations calculated using standard entries from the USDA FoodData Central and reflect common ingredients (2% milk, plain low-fat yogurt, banana, mixed berries). For individual needs or precise tracking, consult the USDA database or a registered dietitian.
Per serving:
- Calories: ~203 kcal
- Protein: ~5.5 g
- Carbohydrates: ~42 g (of which sugars ~25 g)
- Dietary Fiber: ~6 g
- Fat: ~2.7 g (mostly unsaturated)
- Sodium: ~55 mg
Notes:
- Adding 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup to the full batch adds ~64 kcal total (~32 kcal per serving).
- This smoothie supplies vitamins C and K (from berries), potassium (from banana), calcium and vitamin D (from milk/yogurt). These nutrient contributions align with public health guidance on including fruit and dairy for a balanced meal component (see USDA and Mayo Clinic guidance).
Why You’ll Love It
- Speed & Simplicity: Ready in five minutes. No cooking, no fuss.
- Flavor & Texture: Sweet ripeness from banana paired with the bright tartness of berries creates layered flavor; yogurt and milk deliver silkiness.
- Health Perks: Fruit provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants; dairy adds calcium and protein to help you stay full longer.
- Versatility: Swap fruits, milk types, and add-ins to match dietary needs or whatever’s in your fridge.
- Comfort + Convenience: Feels indulgent but is a quick, nourishing choice for busy routines or relaxed weekend brunches.
How to Make Easy Fruit Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients (makes about 2 servings)
- 1/2 cup milk (120 ml; 2% recommended, or use plant milk)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (60 ml; low-fat or Greek if you want more protein)
- 1 cup fresh fruit (example: 1 medium banana, sliced)
- 2 cups frozen fruit (about 300 g; example: mixed berries), thawed 5–10 minutes before blending
- 1–2 tablespoons sweetener (optional; honey, maple syrup, or agave)
Optional add-ins (choose any):
- 1 tablespoon nut butter (peanut, almond)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed
- 1/2 cup spinach or kale (mild flavor if fresh)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon
- 1 scoop protein powder (adjust milk volume slightly)
Substitutions:
- Dairy-free: swap milk and yogurt for almond, oat, or soy alternatives (use unsweetened versions if watching sugar).
- Vegan: use plant-based milk and yogurt, and a plant-based sweetener.
- Thicker smoothie: replace some milk with more yogurt or add 1/2 avocado.
- Lower sugar: choose unsweetened yogurt and reduce or omit the sweetener; use more low-sugar berries.
Directions
- If using a traditional blender: pour the milk into the blender first, then add yogurt, fresh fruit, frozen fruit, sweetener (if using), and any optional add-ins. If using a personal blender (cup-style): add in the reverse order—frozen fruit on the bottom—so the blades can process easily.
- Secure the lid and blend on high until smooth and evenly combined, about 30–60 seconds depending on blender strength. Stop and scrape down the sides if needed.
- Check consistency: if too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk and blend briefly; if too thin, add a few ice cubes or a small handful of frozen fruit.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or add-ins. If adding protein powder, pulse briefly to combine.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Practical tips:
- Thaw frozen fruit for 5–10 minutes for easier blending and smoother texture.
- Avoid over-blending if using very ripe fruit; blend just until smooth to preserve fresh flavor and texture.
- For the creamiest result, use one frozen ingredient (berries) and one fresh (banana) — this balances texture and temperature.
Ways to Enjoy
- Classic: Serve plain in a tall glass with a reusable straw.
- Breakfast bowl: Pour into a bowl and top with granola, sliced almonds, and fresh berries for a spoonable smoothie bowl.
- On the side: Pair with a toasted whole-grain bagel or a slice of avocado toast for a more substantial breakfast.
- Post-workout: Add a scoop of protein powder and a tablespoon of nut butter to boost recovery.
- Kid-friendly: Serve in insulated cups or small mason jars with a colorful straw; let kids pick toppings like banana chips or coconut flakes.
Storing Leftovers
- Room temperature: Not recommended — smoothies contain dairy and fresh fruit; leave at room temp no longer than 1–2 hours.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container or mason jar for up to 24 hours. Re-stir before drinking; texture may separate slightly. Best consumed within the same day for flavor and freshness.
- Freezer: Pour into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 2–3 months. To re-use: thaw in the refrigerator overnight and re-blend the next day for best texture.
For more make-ahead ideas and no-bake summer recipes that pair well with smoothies, see this roundup: No-Bake Recipes for Hot Days.
Chef’s Advice
- Choose ripe but not overripe bananas to avoid overpowering sweetness and a gluey texture.
- For the best mouthfeel, use one creamy ingredient (banana or avocado) and one bright ingredient (berries or mango).
- When using a high-powered blender, start on low and ramp up to preserve bright fruit notes and prevent overheating.
- If you want extra froth, blend on high for the last 5–8 seconds.
- For an ultra-smooth, restaurant-style texture, use Greek yogurt and a splash of full-fat milk or a tablespoon of avocado.
Delicious Variations
- Tropical Sunshine
- Swap fruits for 1 cup fresh mango + 2 cups frozen pineapple. Use coconut milk for the tropical base and add 1/2 lime zest. Vegan-friendly and bright.
- Green Power Smoothie
- Add 1/2 cup fresh spinach, use 1 cup fresh apple (chopped) + 2 cups frozen banana slices, add 1 tablespoon chia seeds. Mild green flavor with extra fiber.
- Peanut Butter Banana Boost
- Use banana for both fresh and frozen fruit, add 1 tablespoon peanut butter and 1/2 scoop protein powder. Great for post-workout fuel.
- Dairy-Free Berry Oat Smoothie
- Use oat milk and dairy-free yogurt, add 2 tablespoons rolled oats and 1 tablespoon flaxseed for a fiber-rich breakfast replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use only frozen fruit without fresh fruit?
A: Yes — but your smoothie may be thicker and colder. Add a little extra milk to reach your preferred consistency.
Q: How can I make this with less sugar?
A: Use unsweetened yogurt and plant milk, omit added sweetener, and use berries (which are lower in sugar than tropical fruits).
Q: Will this separate in the fridge?
A: Slight separation is normal. Shake or re-blend briefly before serving.
Q: Can I make this ahead for the week?
A: Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze in portions for up to 2–3 months. Re-blend after thawing.
Q: What’s a good swap for yogurt if I don’t like it?
A: Use silken tofu (for protein and creaminess), extra banana, or a higher ratio of milk to keep texture smooth.
Conclusion
This easy fruit smoothie is a reliable, fast, and adaptable recipe that brings together bright fruit flavors and creamy texture in minutes. It’s perfect for mornings on the run, an after-gym refuel, or a simple, healthy treat anytime. For more inspiration and a pared-down three-ingredient version, check out this helpful guide to an Easy Fruit Smoothie Recipe with Just Three Ingredients, and for another classic approach see this longtime favorite: Basic Fruit Smoothie Recipe. Try it, share your tweaks in the comments, and tag a friend who needs a quick, delicious pick-me-up.
Print
Easy Fruit Smoothie
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A bright, velvety smoothie that combines the sweetness of ripe banana and berries with creamy yogurt and milk, perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup milk (120 ml; 2% recommended, or use plant milk)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (60 ml; low-fat or Greek)
- 1 cup fresh fruit (example: 1 medium banana, sliced)
- 2 cups frozen fruit (about 300 g; example: mixed berries), thawed 5–10 minutes before blending
- 1–2 tablespoons sweetener (optional; honey, maple syrup, or agave)
- 1 tablespoon nut butter (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1/2 cup spinach or kale (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- 1 scoop protein powder (optional)
Instructions
- Pour the milk into the blender first, then add yogurt, fresh fruit, frozen fruit, sweetener (if using), and any optional add-ins.
- Secure the lid and blend on high until smooth and evenly combined, about 30–60 seconds.
- Check consistency: if too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk and blend; if too thin, add a few ice cubes.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or add-ins. If adding protein powder, pulse briefly to combine.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Notes
Thaw frozen fruit for easier blending. Avoid over-blending to preserve fresh flavor. Best consumed the same day for flavor and freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 203
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 2.7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 5.5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
