Warm berry smoothie mix (Printable Version)

Cozy blend of warmed mixed berries, spices, and milk offers a smooth, creamy delight.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruits

01 - 1 1/2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; e.g., blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
02 - 1 small ripe banana, sliced

→ Liquids

03 - 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based such as almond or oat)
04 - 1/4 cup water

→ Sweetener

05 - 1 to 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, adjusted to taste

→ Flavorings

06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
08 - Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

# How To Make:

01 - Place mixed berries, sliced banana, milk, and water in a small saucepan.
02 - Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until steaming hot but not boiling, about 3 to 5 minutes.
03 - Remove from heat and stir in honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg if using.
04 - Transfer mixture carefully to a blender and blend on high speed until frothy and smooth.
05 - Taste and add more sweetener if desired, blending briefly to combine.
06 - Pour into mugs and enjoy immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Warm drinks feel like self-care in a mug, especially when you're still in your pajamas on a cold morning.
  • The spices bloom as it heats, turning simple berries into something that tastes like you've been cooking for hours.
  • It's ready in the time it takes to shower, with zero fussy equipment or technique required.
02 -
  • Never blend a smoothie straight from a hot saucepan without letting it cool slightly—the steam builds pressure and the lid will pop off, which is equal parts dangerous and embarrassing.
  • The berries are what make this special; thaw frozen ones briefly if they came directly from the freezer, or they'll shock the milk and make it grainy.
03 -
  • If your blender is nervous about hot liquids, let the mixture cool for five minutes before blending—a warm smoothie that doesn't explode is better than a perfect smoothie that ruins your appliance.
  • Make extra and keep it in a thermos; it stays drinkable for a few hours and tastes just as comforting at lunch when you need the reminder.