I fully intended to make a wholesome, veggie-packed carrot smoothie. I blended together what appeared to be an innocent mix of chopped carrots, pineapple, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cashew milk only to realize I’d inadvertently made a carrot smoothie that tastes just like my favorite Healthy Carrot Cake. This may be the happiest kitchen accident ever. I mean, I really should receive an award for this smoothie because it:
Allows you to sneak in a full serving of vitamin-packed vegetables before your morning commute.Provides a healthy dose of protein and healthy fats thanks to Greek yogurt, cashew milk, and walnuts.Tastes just like dessert without being overloaded with processed ingredients or sugar.
Like a slice of carrot cake, this carrot smoothie is fresh, sweet but not too sweet, and boasts layers of complementary flavors. Unlike a slice of carrot cake, however, it is a squeaky-clean healthy choice for breakfast (as is this Beet Smoothie), and you can easily sip one on the run.
How to Make a Carrot Smoothie
My subconscious clearly needed a slice of carrot cake that morning (just as it needed a slice of pie the three consecutive days I made this pie-tasting Blueberry Smoothie), because this carrot smoothie has all of its key ingredients. Full disclosure, I omitted raisins which are carrot-cake controversial anyway, but if you want to sprinkle a few on top, I support you.
The Ingredients
Carrots. Sweet, yet packed with vitamin A, fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and manganese, carrots are truly nature’s candy.Pineapple. I opt for frozen pineapple in place of ice to help chill the smoothie without watering it down.Banana. Thickens the smoothie and makes it creamy.Greek Yogurt. Adds a cream cheese frosting-like tang without the extra fat or calories.Cashew Milk. Thins the smoothie to a drinking consistency while adding heart-healthy unsaturated fats and protein.
Coconut. If you’re not a coconut lover, feel free to omit but I love how the coconut flavor pairs with the carrot, pineapple, banana, and cinnamon. Yum!Cinnamon + Nutmeg. Add essential carrot cake flavor to the recipe.Walnuts. Provides a little nuttiness to the smoothie while contributing healthy omega-3 fats and antioxidants to this drinkable dessert.
The Directions
Recommended Tools to Make This Recipe
Blender. This has made all my smoothies perfectly smooth and creamy.Stainless Steel Straws. These turn everything into a refreshing, delicious treat.Opaque Cup. These will hide any strange-colored smoothies.
More Healthy Smoothie Recipes
Oatmeal SmoothieApple SmoothieMint Smoothie