How do I store any leftover cranberry mango smoothie?

Any leftovers can be poured into a covered container (such as a mason jar or insulated water bottle) and placed in the fridge for a few hours. For long-term storage, pour into ice cube trays and freeze until ready to use. Blend up with a little extra water, plant milk, or juice.

Can I make this cranberry smoothie recipe sugar-free?

If you'd rather not include the maple syrup, try using soaked and pitted dates or date sugar (powdered dry dates) instead. Or, increase by one frozen banana and add extra juice, water, or plant milk to the mixture.

What can I use instead of bananas in this smoothie recipe?

You can always double the mango instead of adding the banana to the recipe. The resulting smoothie might not be quite as sweet or creamy, but it'll still be delicious. Another option would be adding frozen pineapple along with the frozen mango chunks.

Can I use cranberry instead of orange juice in this smoothie recipe?

You sure can! Transform this recipe into a vibrant cranberry juice smoothie by swapping out the orange juice for cranberry juice. If you like a sweeter smoothie, use sweetened cranberry juice. For a tangier and slightly more sour taste, use an unsweetened version.

Cranberry Smoothie

A cranberry smoothie is a delicious way to enjoy a refreshing burst of tart and sweet flavors in every sip. Packed with antioxidants, cranberries are a great base for a smoothie, adding vibrant color and a unique taste that’s both tangy and bright. Paired with ingredients like bananas, mango and a touch of natural sweetener, this smoothie has a balanced flavor that makes it perfect for a morning boost or an afternoon treat. Not only does a cranberry smoothie taste great, but it’s also packed with nutrients.

Cranberries are known for their high vitamin C content, and when blended with ingredients like orange juice and plant milk, this smoothie can become a creamy and satisfying drink. Plus, adding a scoop or two of vegan protein powder could it an extra boost, making this smoothie as nutritious as it is refreshing.

Perfect for any time of year, but especially during peak cranberry harvest time in the autumn months when you can more easily find cranberries at the supermarket. This super colorful smoothie will also impress guests at any holiday meal (such as Thanksgiving or Christmas) and is a great way to start the day in a healthy way.

Can we enjoy this smoothie right away? Yes, we CRAN!

Table of Contents

Why You Must Make This Cranberry Smoothie

This festive orange cranberry smoothie is a delicious mix of tangy, sweet, and tropical flavors that’s hard to resist! With vibrant cranberries, creamy bananas, and refreshing orange juice, every sip is packed with nutrients and great taste. Plus, it’s quick to make and naturally dairy-free, so it’s perfect for a wholesome snack or a tasty morning boost.

Quick and Easy to Make. With just a handful of ingredients and a blender, you’ll have this cranberry smoothie ready in minutes. It’s a great choice for busy mornings or a quick snack when you need a nutritious boost on the go. Just blend, pour, and enjoy!
Bursting with Flavor. This cranberry smoothie is a blend of sweet, tangy, and tropical flavors! The cranberries add a tart twist, while bananas and mangos bring in natural sweetness and creaminess. Orange juice ties it all together, giving you a sip that’s refreshing and energizing.
Creamy, Dairy-Free Goodness. Thanks to the plant milk, this smoothie is extra creamy without any dairy. Whether you choose almond, oat, or soy milk, it brings a smooth, velvety texture that complements the fruit beautifully, making each sip satisfying and gentle on your stomach.
Great for Breakfast or a Snack. This smoothie is filling enough for breakfast, thanks to the fiber-rich fruits, but also light enough for an afternoon snack. The mix of bananas and plant milk makes it satisfying, while the cranberry and orange flavors keep it refreshing and perfect for any time of day!
Gorgeous Color and Festive Vibes. This cranberry smoothie has a beautiful, vibrant pinkish-red hue that instantly brightens up any table! It’s not just tasty but also visually appealing, making it perfect for festive occasions or a cheerful morning boost. Plus, that pop of color is sure to lift your mood with every sip!

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

This bright and delicious frozen cranberry smoothie is packed with delicious and nutritious ingredients like tangy cranberries, sweet bananas, and creamy plant-based milk. Each ingredient adds flavor and texture, making it a perfect balance of tart and sweet. Plus, there are easy substitutions, so you can use what you have on hand without losing any of the delicious taste!

Gathered ingredients for a cranberry smoothie including frozen cranberries, bananas, mango, milk, and orange juice.

Frozen Cranberries – Give the smoothie its signature tart flavor and vibrant color. They add a unique tanginess that balances the sweetness of the other fruits. If you don’t have frozen cranberries, try frozen raspberries for a similar tartness. Fresh cranberries work too; just add a few ice cubes for extra chill and thickness or freeze the cranberries overnight before using.
Frozen Bananas – Add natural sweetness and a creamy texture, helping to thicken the smoothie. If you’re not a banana fan, frozen peaches or pears can add similar sweetness and creaminess. Avocado is another option for creaminess but will change the flavor slightly and the color greatly.
Frozen Mango – Lends a tropical sweetness and an extra creamy texture that pairs well with cranberries and bananas. Frozen pineapple or peaches are good swaps for mango, giving you a similar texture and sweetness.
Maple Syrup – Provides a gentle, natural sweetness that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. It keeps the smoothie from being too tart, balancing out the cranberries and orange juice. You can swap maple syrup with agave nectar, vegan honey, or a couple of soaked medjool dates for similar sweetness. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Orange Juice – Adds natural sweetness and a refreshing citrus note that complements the cranberries beautifully. It enhances the tartness while keeping everything balanced. Use fresh-squeezed orange juice for even more flavor. Pineapple juice or apple juice also work well if you’re looking for a different fruity twist.
Plant Milk – Makes the smoothie creamy and smooth. It also helps blend the frozen fruits without making the smoothie too thick. Coconut milk will add a more tropical vibe. Oat, soy, almond, or cashew milk would all taste great, too.

How to Make a Cranberry Smoothie

Making this cranberry smoothie is quick, easy, and full of refreshing flavor! Blend frozen cranberries with bananas, mango, orange juice, and plant-based milk for a creamy, nutrient-packed drink. With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious smoothie perfect for any time of day.

Step 1: Blend the Ingredients – In a blender, combine the plant-based milk, orange juice, frozen cranberries, mango, banana, and maple syrup. Blend for about one minute, or until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

The ingredients for this cranberry smoothie added to a blender pitcher.

Step 2: Serve and Garnish – Pour the smoothie into a large glass (or three 8 oz. glasses). For a festive touch, garnish with a sprig of rosemary, an orange wedge, and a few fresh cranberries, if you like!

Serving Tips and Suggestions

Discover fun and easy ways to serve up your cranberry smoothie with these creative tips! From festive garnishes to smoothie bowls, each idea brings a unique twist to your delicious drink. Try these serving suggestions to make your smoothie even more enjoyable, whether you’re sipping at home or on the go:

Power Up with Plant-Based Protein – Add 1 to 2 scoops of your favorite protein powder along with the other ingredients. If you’re using a flavored protein powder, like vanilla or chocolate, it can add a fun twist to the taste. Just make sure to adjust the liquid slightly if you want a smoother consistency!
Add a Festive Garnish – Top your smoothie with a sprig of fresh rosemary, an orange wedge, or a few whole cranberries for a festive look. These garnishes add color and make your smoothie feel extra special.
Pour into a Mason Jar – For a rustic, café-style vibe, serve your smoothie in a mason jar. It’s easy to grab and take on the go, and it keeps your smoothie chilled longer.
Make it a Smoothie Bowl – Pour your smoothie into a bowl and top it with fresh fruit, nuts (like these candied walnuts or sweet pecans), or maple granola. This creates a hearty, spoonable treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a filling snack.
Use Frozen Cranberries as Ice Cubes – Add a few frozen cranberries to your smoothie as edible “ice cubes.” They’ll keep your smoothie cold while adding a little extra tartness as they melt.
Create a Smoothie Layer – For a pretty presentation, layer your cranberry smoothie with a lighter smoothie, like this bright yellow lemon smoothie, pink dragonfruit smoothie, or mango pineapple smoothie. Pour one smoothie, then gently add the second for a two-tone effect that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!