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Can you freeze fresh fruit to make smoothies?

Making smoothies with frozen fruit can be a convenient and healthy option for breakfast or a snack. Freezing allows you to buy fresh fruits when they are in season or on sale, and enjoy them later. This article will explore tips for freezing fruit properly, how long different fruits last in the freezer, and some smoothie recipes using frozen ingredients.

Benefits of Using Frozen Fruit for Smoothies

There are several advantages to using frozen fruit in smoothies:

  • Convenience – Frozen fruit can be portioned and stored until you need it, so smoothies can be made quickly.
  • Cost savings – Buying fruits frozen or freezing when fresh produce is in season can save money.
  • Nutrition – Frozen fruit is picked and frozen at peak ripeness, preserving many nutrients.
  • Texture – Frozen fruit helps give smoothies a thick, icy texture.
  • Year round availability – Use your frozen fruit stash for smoothies any time of year.

Tips for Freezing Fruit for Smoothies

Follow these tips for the best results freezing fruit at home:

  • Wash, dry, and remove any stems, pits or bruised spots on fresh fruit before freezing.
  • Cut fruit into smaller pieces or slices before freezing for easier blending. Good sizes are 1/2 inch cubes or 1/2 inch thick slices.
  • Spread pieces out on a parchment lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 2-3 hours.
  • Transfer frozen pieces to an airtight freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
  • Label with the type of fruit and date frozen. For best quality, use within 8-12 months.
  • Avoid freezing fruit with high water content like watermelon, citrus, or grapes which tend to get mushy when thawed.

How Long Different Fruits Last in the Freezer

Here is a guide to the freezer life expectancy for commonly frozen fruits:

Fruit Months in Freezer
Bananas 2-3 months
Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) 8-12 months
Cherries 8-12 months
Mangos 6 months
Peaches 6-12 months
Pineapple 6 months

As you can see, berries and stone fruits hold up the best in frozen storage. Be sure to check fruit for any signs of spoilage like mold or off textures before using in smoothies.

Tips for Using Frozen Fruit for Smoothies

Here are some tips for working with frozen fruit in smoothies:

  • Let fruit thaw just until ice crystals begin to loosen for easier blending, 5-10 minutes.
  • Add a bit of extra liquid like juice, milk, or yogurt to account for any moisture lost in freezing.
  • Use overripe or very soft fruits like bananas as your base rather than frozen fruits.
  • Blend in two stages – blend wet ingredients first, then add frozen fruit and blend again.
  • Resist overblending which can cause smoothies to get watery and frothy.

Recommended Smoothie Add-Ins

In addition to fruit, try adding these nutritious ingredients to smoothies:

  • Yogurt – Greek or regular, adds creaminess and protein.
  • Milk – Dairy, soy, almond, or other, also makes smoothies creamy.
  • Nut butter – Almond, peanut, etc. Help thicken and add healthy fats.
  • Oats – Quick or old fashioned, provide fiber and act as a thickener.
  • Chia seeds – Help thicken smoothies when added dry and soaked.
  • Ground flaxseed – Extra source of healthy omega-3 fats.
  • Cinnamon – Warming spice with antioxidants.
  • Spinach or kale – Boost nutrition without impacting flavor.

Recipes for Frozen Fruit Smoothies

Here are some tasty combinations for frozen fruit smoothies:

Mixed Berry Smoothie

  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 2 Tbsp honey (optional)

Mango Banana Smoothie

  • 1 cup frozen mango chunks
  • 1 frozen banana
  • 3/4 cup milk of choice
  • 1 Tbsp peanut butter
  • Dash of cinnamon

Green Pineapple Smoothie

  • 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
  • 1 cup packed baby spinach
  • 1/2 frozen banana
  • 1/4 cup canned light coconut milk
  • 1 Tbsp ground flaxseed
  • Splash of lime juice

Get creative mixing your favorite fruits along with items like greens, nut butters, herbs, spices, seeds, milk, yogurt, or juice to make healthy and delicious smoothies from frozen fruit.

Storing and Re-Freezing Extra Smoothie Mix

Have leftover smoothie mix? Here are some storage tips:

  • Store in an airtight container in fridge up to 3 days.
  • Pour into ice cube trays and re-freeze for individual portions.
  • Place in freezer bags, removing extra air. Re-freeze up to 2 months.
  • Only re-freeze if mix contains dairy, fruit juice or coconut milk once. Do not re-freeze if made with added fresh fruit or green vegetables.

Conclusion

Freezing fruit can make preparing healthy, homemade smoothies quick and easy all year long. Follow proper techniques for freezing fruit, blend with flavorful mix-ins, and enjoy the convenience of having ready-to-blend smoothie ingredients on hand. Experiment with different fruit and flavor combinations to come up with your own favorites.