Creamy Citrus Dream Smoothie
Reimagine a classic treat with this delicious Creamy Citrus Dream Smoothie! Inspired by the iconic Orange Julius, this smooth and frosty beverage combines the bright, tangy flavor of orange juice concentrate with creamy milk, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a refreshing treat on a warm day, this smoothie offers a delightful burst of citrus flavor that will leave you feeling revitalized and satisfied. Whip up a batch and enjoy the nostalgia of this beloved drink, now made effortlessly at home!
3
Servings
80
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen orange juice concentrate
3 ounces (thawed)
Milk
1/2 cup (whole or your choice of milk)
Water
1/2 cup (cold)
Sugar
1/4 cup (or to taste)
Vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (pure)
Ice cubes
5-6 (as needed for thickness)
Instructions
1
In a blender, combine the thawed frozen orange juice concentrate, milk, cold water, sugar, vanilla extract, and ice cubes.
2
Blend on high speed until the mixture is frothy and smooth, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
3
Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness, if necessary, by adding more sugar or sweetener.
4
Pour into glasses and serve immediately, garnished with a slice of orange or a sprig of mint if desired.
Nutrition Information
1g
Fat
17g
Carbs
1g
Protein
11g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Creamy Citrus Dream Smoothie?
It is a smooth and frosty beverage inspired by the iconic Orange Julius, combining tangy orange juice with creamy milk and vanilla.
What does this smoothie taste like?
This smoothie offers a bright, tangy citrus flavor balanced by sweetness and a hint of vanilla, reminiscent of a creamsicle.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to produce 3 servings.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients are frozen orange juice concentrate, milk, water, sugar, vanilla extract, and ice cubes.
Can I use fresh orange juice instead of concentrate?
While you can use fresh juice, the frozen concentrate provides the intense, bold citrus flavor essential for the classic Creamy Citrus Dream taste.
What type of milk is best for this recipe?
Whole milk provides the richest texture, but you can use any dairy or non-dairy milk of your choice.
Can I make this smoothie dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk.
Is this recipe vegan?
It can be made vegan by using a plant-based milk and ensuring your sugar is vegan-certified.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are approximately 80 calories per serving.
Can I omit the added sugar?
Yes, you can reduce or omit the sugar, though the flavor profile will be more tart due to the orange concentrate.
What alternative sweeteners can I use?
You can use honey, agave nectar, maple syrup, or a sugar-free substitute like stevia to taste.
What kind of vanilla should I use?
Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the most authentic and deep flavor.
How do I achieve a thicker consistency?
To make the smoothie thicker, add more ice cubes or reduce the amount of water used.
How do I make the smoothie thinner?
If the smoothie is too thick, simply blend in a little extra water or milk until the desired consistency is reached.
Can I add protein powder to this?
Yes, a scoop of vanilla-flavored protein powder is a great addition to boost the nutritional content.
Is this smoothie a healthy option?
It is a refreshing, low-fat treat that provides a boost of Vitamin C, though it does contain some sugar.
Can I prepare this smoothie in advance?
It is best enjoyed immediately for the frothy texture, but you can store it in the fridge for a short time and re-blend.
How long does it stay fresh in the refrigerator?
It is best consumed within 30 minutes, as the ice will melt and the mixture may separate over time.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers in popsicle molds for a delicious frozen citrus treat.
What is the best way to garnish this drink?
Garnish with a fresh orange slice or a sprig of mint for a professional presentation.
Is this smoothie suitable for children?
Yes, children usually love the sweet and creamy flavor, making it a great kid-friendly snack.
Can I add other fruits to the blender?
Absolutely, strawberries or bananas pair very well with the orange and vanilla flavors.
What equipment do I need to make this?
You only need a standard kitchen blender to combine the ingredients.
How long does it take to prepare?
It takes less than 5 minutes to measure the ingredients and blend them together.
Does this drink contain caffeine?
No, this smoothie is naturally caffeine-free.
How much sugar is in each serving?
Each serving contains approximately 11 grams of sugar.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are roughly 17 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
How much fat is in this recipe?
This is a low-fat drink, with about 1 gram of fat per serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Yes, you can double the ingredients as long as your blender has the capacity to hold the larger volume.