The summer heat might have you reaching for a cold treat. But, ice cream bars and sugar-filled popsicles can quickly throw off your health and weight loss goals.
Every once in a while it’s ok to indulge in a dessert. However, it’s important to pay attention to what you’re putting in your body…especially because there are delicious alternatives to your favorite frosty treats that won’t have as big of an impact on your diet.
When using the right recipe, you don’t have to feel guilty about treating yourself (or your kids) something sweet. It’s my hope that you can start swapping out those sugar-filled, processed desserts for healthier, more natural options.
To lend you a hand, I’m going to share a delicious orange creamsicle recipe that your entire family is bound to love! Check it out…
Orange Creamsicle Smoothie Recipe
The best part about the orange creamsicle smoothie is that it’s made with many ingredients that you likely already have in your fridge or pantry!
Here’s what you need…
Ingredients:
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk OR coconut milk
- 1/2 cup coconut water
- 3 ounces of fresh-squeezed orange juice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1 tsp honey
- A handful of ice, depending on your desired frostiness
Note: If you don’t have oranges to squeeze, you can use orange juice. Be sure to look for a sugar-free variety.
Nutritional Information:
1 8 oz. glass of this orange creamsicle smoothie contains approximately…
- 200 calories
- 1.2 grams of total fat
- 34 grams of carbohydrates
- 30 grams of sugar
Directions:
- Add all ingredients into your blender.
- Blend the mixture.
- Continue to add ice until the smoothie is at your desired consistency.
- Serve and enjoy!
Creamsicle Smoothie Ingredient Benefits
While this recipe should certainly be treated as a dessert and NOT an every day drink, there are many nutrient-packed ingredients in this smoothie. Here are a few benefits that are contained within the smoothie ingredients…
Oranges
Oranges contain high levels of vitamin C, a vitamin that supports immune health and helps prevent you from getting sick!
Coconut Milk/Almond Milk
Coconut milk and almond milk are often fortified with calcium. Calcium is essential for keeping your bones healthy and strong!
Protein Powder
Protein powder contains exactly what the name says it does…protein. Consuming enough protein is vital as protein builds and repairs the tissues in your body.
Bananas
Like oranges, bananas are high in vitamin C. But that’s not all they contain. They are well-known for their high levels of vitamin B6 (which helps produce red blood cells, turn fats into energy, and protect your nervous system) as well as Potassium which is important for heart health and blood pressure.
Tips for Preserving and Serving Your Orange Creamsicle Smoothies
To some, the idea of whipping up a smoothie might seem like a lot of work. The good news is that this tasty treat can be made in advance and stored in your freezer to enjoy at a later date.
Here are a few ways you can prep and serve your smoothies when you have some free time…
Tip #1: Make Smoothie Bags to Store in Your Freezer
When you have the time, whip up a batch of these smoothies. Then, instead of eating them, pour the mixture into an ice cube tray.
Freeze overnight, then pop out the ice cubes and store them in a large freezer bag. When you’re ready to make a smoothie, pour a handful of the cubes into your blender, add a little bit of orange juice and blend!
Tip #2: Blend Smoothie Pops for Your Kids
Kids love popsicles. However, most popsicles you find in the grocery store are loaded with preservatives and sugar.
This summer, trick your kids into enjoying a healthier alternative! Simply whip up a batch of the smoothie mixture, pour it into popsicle molds, and freezer for a minimum of 5 hours.
When your kids want a treat, you’ll have a healthy option on hand.
Tip #3: Make Your Smoothie a Part of Your Meal Prep Routine
Being prepared is the best way to ensure you have healthy options when your sweet tooth demands a dessert.
All of the smoothie ingredients above can be bought ahead of time and stored in your pantry, fridge, or freezer. While you’re out shopping, grab everything you need even if you don’t plan on making a smoothie that day.
Pre-freeze a bag of bananas. Stock your pantry with protein powder, coconut water, vanilla extract, and honey. And make sure you have oranges/orange juice and milk in your fridge.
With a little prep, it’s easy to take control over your health, without feeling like you have to miss out on the little indulgences in your life!
Give this recipe a try, and if you love it, please pass it along to your friends and family–they will thank you!
I wish you a safe, happy, and healthy remainder of summer.
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