The best frozen fruits for smoothies depends on your goal. This can change based on your time and budget requirements. Some people would argue that fresh fruits are better than frozen, while others say the opposite is true. Either way, the two work very well together, and by using a good combination of fresh and frozen fruit, you end up with a smoothie that is healthier than other options around.
The 10 Best Frozen Fruits for Smoothies
Frozen fruit, a mainstay in my freezer, is the secret to scrumptious, frosty smoothies. I get a little anxious when I start to run low and immediately make plans to go stock up at Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. The variety of frozen fruit available at both shops makes it simpler than ever for me to start my day with a nutritious shake. While Trader Joe’s is more reasonably priced, Whole Foods provides more organic selections, which are always preferable.
However, not all fruit, whether it be frozen or fresh, is created equal. All fruits include vitamins and fiber, although some are significantly higher in nutrients than others. I sought advice from best-selling author and nutritionist Joel Fuhrman, MD, to determine which bags of frozen fruit I ought to put in my shopping basket.
Dr. Fuhrman measures 34 nutritional factors, ranging from calcium and iron to vitamin C and beta carotene, to rank fruits and vegetables based on the amount of nutrition contained in each calorie of the item. However, the majority of the nutrients are not listed on typical food labels.
What fruits can you add to smoothies that are the healthiest? Here are the top 10, all of which are sold frozen in supermarkets, with the exception of bananas. We receive all the advantages of fresh fruit in a delectable smoothie since nutrients are maintained when fruit is frozen.
The 10 Best Frozen Fruits for Smoothies:
- Strawberries
Topping the fruit charts, Dr. Fuhrman recommends at least one serving of strawberries (or berries) a day. Packing in more vitamin C than an orange, strawberries are the world’s most popular berry.
Smoothie tip: Blend frozen strawberries with dates, vanilla, and almond milk for a delicious strawberry milkshake (try my Strawberries & Creme Milkshake!).
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 50 calories, 3 grams fiber, 7 grams sugar, 160% RDA of vitamin C - Blackberries
Containing more antioxidants than any other fruit, blackberries are a rockstar addition to your smoothie. This means that consuming frozen blackberries can help prevent cancer, memory loss, and heart disease.
Smoothie tip: Blend frozen blackberries with lemon zest, walnuts, frozen banana, and coconut water for a refreshing shake reminiscent of blackberry pie.
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 62 calories, 8 grams fiber, 7 grams sugar, 50% RDA of vitamin C - Raspberries
Proven to fight type 2 diabetes and obesity, raspberries are another antioxidant-rich addition to your diet. Grown in a variety of colors, this berry ranks third in worldwide popularity behind strawberries and blueberries.
Smoothie tip: For a pink powerhouse shake, combine frozen raspberries with raw beet, a tangerine, almond milk, chia seeds, and vanilla.
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 52 calories, 7 grams fiber, 4 grams sugar, 44% RDA of vitamin C - Blueberries
The original superfood, blueberries have been shown to improve memory and slow down the aging process. Native to North America, the US grows 275 million pounds of blueberries every year.
Smoothie tip: Whirl frozen blueberries with spinach, fresh ginger, frozen strawberries, and coconut water for an anti-depression remedy. Don’t miss my signature Best Superfood Smoothie recipe, packed with blueberries!
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 84 calories, 2 grams fiber, 10 grams sugar, 32% RDA of vitamin K - Pomegranates
One of the oldest known fruits in the world, research shows that pomegranates strengthen the heart and blood vessels. Long revered for health and fertility, frozen pomegranate seeds have become readily available in recent years.
Smoothie tip: Create an aphrodisiacal smoothie with frozen pomegranate seeds, frozen cherries, figs, vanilla, and coconut water.
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 83 calories, 4 grams fiber, 14 grams sugar, 16% RDA of vitamin C - Peaches
Peaches are great for the skin and can reduce wrinkles, fight sun damage, and improve overall skin texture. Native to China, adding the sweet fruit to your smoothies can make it
feel like summer all year long.
Smoothie tip: Blend up frozen peaches with chai spices, almond milk, and a few dates for a heavenly peaches ‘n’ creme shake.
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 60 calories, 2 grams fiber, 13 grams sugar, 17% RDA of vitamin C - Cherries
One of the few natural sources of melatonin, cherries can help insomnia. Full of potassium, the stone fruit makes smoothies extra special—especially when combined with chocolate.
Smoothie tip: Who needs Ben & Jerry’s when you can create your own Cherry Garcia blend with frozen cherries, frozen banana, cacao nibs, and coconut milk? Or whirl up my Black Forest Smoothie for delish cherry goodness.
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 71 calories, 2 grams fiber, 14 grams sugar, 27% RDA of vitamin A - Pineapple
Another superstar source of vitamin C, pineapple is also loaded with the enzyme bromelain, which is effective in aiding digestion. Sipping on a smoothie with pineapple is like being transported to a tropical island.
Smoothie tip: Don’t miss my Kale Colada with kale, coconut water, frozen pineapple, frozen banana, and shredded coconut.
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 82 calories, 2 grams fiber, 16 grams sugar, 131% RDA of vitamin C - Mango
Great for the eyes, mangoes can also normalize insulin levels in the blood. With more than 1,000 varieties, mango is a close relative to cashews and pistachios.
Smoothie tip: Mango is so luscious on its own that a simple blend of frozen mango, coconut water, and fresh mint is sheer perfection.
Nutritional stats: 1 cup = 99 calories, 3 grams fiber, 23 grams sugar, 100% RDA of vitamin C - Banana
Full of potassium, vitamin B6, and manganese, bananas originated in Malaysia about 4,000 years ago. A frozen banana is the secret to creamy, sweet smoothies, and I keep my freezer fully stocked.
Smoothie tip: Blend a frozen banana with cacao nibs, frozen strawberries, vanilla, and almond milk for the ultimate banana split shake.
Nutritional stats: 1 banana = 105 calories, 3 grams fiber, 14 grams sugar, 25% RDA of vitamin B6
The 9 Best Frozen Fruits For Smoothies
You can do so many various things to create a wonderful smoothie when it comes to preparing smoothies. Juice or milk is sometimes combined with fresh fruits and vegetables by some people.
Other people choose to keep things straightforward and use frozen foods because doing so is simple and frequently more affordable.
Smoothie recipes benefit more from some frozen fruits than others. The fruit’s tastes, shape, texture, and nutritional content all matter.
The nine greatest frozen fruits for smoothies are listed in this guide.
We’ll discuss various flavor options and perhaps even suggest some combos for you. These choices have been focused on flavors as well as nutritional value.
Continue reading to learn more about the top 9 frozen fruits for smoothies.
1. Strawberry
One of the frozen fruits that is possibly easier to find and undoubtedly a popular among consumers are frozen strawberries.
Because frozen strawberries are healthful, you should be good to go as long as you select a brand or choice that doesn’t include additional sugar.
Frozen strawberries typically have 77 calories per cup when served.
Strawberries are completely lipid-free.
They do include some naturally occurring sugars, but not a lot.
Including frozen strawberries, strawberries are a fantastic source of folate, manganese, and vitamin K.
Strawberries do contain natural sugars when it comes to sugar. Keep in mind that there is a significant difference between natural sugars and added sweeteners.
Each cup of frozen strawberries without added sugar will have roughly 10 grams of sugar (natural sugars, that is).
Strawberries in the freezer have a strong flavor. They are often frozen as soon as they are harvested to preserve their freshness and flavor.
2. Blueberry
Another well-liked frozen fruit for smoothies is blueberries. Blueberries that have been frozen are a delicious delicacy that is also quite healthy.
Many of the health advantages of blueberries are preserved when they are frozen.
Once more, you should search for solutions without added sugar as doing so merely adds extra sugar to the mixture.
One cup of blueberries constitutes one serving. About 79 calories and 1 gram of fat are included in 1 cup of blueberries.
When you utilize blueberries that have not been sweetened, they contain no additional sugar. Blueberries are low in natural sugars, despite the modest quantity they may contain.
In addition, frozen blueberries are a rich source of vitamins K, C, and B6. Additionally, they contain manganese and some fiber.
If you didn’t know, antioxidants like those found in blueberries exist. They therefore promote intestinal health.
3. Banana
Additionally, frozen bananas are typically rather simple to locate. In fact, because freezing helps to keep their nutrients, you might be better off using frozen bananas than fresh ones.
Since bananas have a rather short shelf life, freezing them will give you the greatest advantages.
If you choose to utilize bananas, be sure to opt for unsweetened varieties, just like you would with any other fruit. Compared to fresh bananas, frozen bananas typically taste sweeter. This has to do with the thawing or defrosting procedure that occurs.
After bananas are frozen, it actually causes some of the starches to change into sugars, giving the fruit a sweeter flavor.
Compared to many other fruits, bananas typically have fewer calories. They include a lot of antioxidants as well.
Bananas have higher-than-average natural sugar levels, but as long as there is no additional sugar, you should be good. This is one thing we want to make clear.
4. Acai Berry
Try including frozen acai berries in your smoothies if you’re really looking for something with a reputation for being healthy. Acai berries are a popular food for good health and nutrition. It frequently comes with weight loss advantages recommendations.
Acai berries are a great source of fiber and good fats. They have their own inherently delicious natural sugars and are naturally sweet.
These are regarded as both a superfood and a naturally occurring antioxidant. Choose an unsweetened acai berry and beware of any added sweeteners.
5. Dragon Fruit
You should absolutely try it if you can locate frozen dragon fruit! Dragon fruit has incredible health advantages and is incredibly sweet, tasting almost like a cross between a strawberry and a pear.
Because of how it looks and because they are unsure of what to expect, many individuals are put off by dragon fruit.
We’re here to let you know that you can anticipate awesomeness. Although it might not be as simple to obtain in every store’s freezer department, this is growing in popularity.
Although dragon fruit has somewhat more calories per serving, it’s still not too bad. Additionally, bear in mind that they contain fewer calories than foods like potato chips.
There are 136 calories in a serving. They include 29 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of protein. Additionally, they are a good source of magnesium, fiber, iron, and vitamins C and E.
6. Pineapple
Tropicalize your smoothie! Pineapple is a really fantastic option if you enjoy the sweet flavors of tropical fruits. The sweetness of frozen pineapple is unmatched, and it is also less acidic than fresh pineapple.
Pineapple is frequently forgotten. Although many people dislike the sweet and acidic flavor of pineapple, it has some seriously fantastic advantages.
Pineapple juice can assist to clear the mucus causing cold symptoms, such as a scratchy throat, and cold-like symptoms.
Additionally antioxidant-rich and excellent for your digestion are pineapples.
With each serving having roughly 2.3 grams of fiber, they are rich in both water and fiber.
In addition to being good for your joints and immune system, as we just discussed, pineapple has other health benefits.
You can’t really go wrong with pineapple because it is nutrient-dense and low in calories. Consider combining pineapple with another fruit if the fruit’s sweet qualities are too much for you.
7. Mango
You can also choose from other tropical fruits like mangoes, which are a bit less sweet than pineapple. Try a pineapple-mango smoothie if you’re looking for the ideal tropical pairing. You won’t be sorry!
Mangos are well known for helping to keep blood sugar levels stable. They do have some natural sugars of their own, but they are very little. They are a tasty, nutritious alternative because they can lower blood sugar levels.
Mangoes are rich in vitamin C, which makes them beneficial for both your immune and nervous systems. In addition to maintaining the strength of your bones, blood vessels, and even skin, mangoes can help with circulation.
8. Strawberry Banana
Strawberries and bananas are a tried-and-true combo for those who enjoy blending fruits to create the ideal concoction.
Why not utilize frozen fruit to create a delectable smoothie? This combination has long been a favorite among smoothie makers.
These are excellent for your health as long as the frozen kind is unsweetened. Because strawberries and bananas each have unique health advantages over the other, they complement one another well in a smoothie.
Bananas’ mild sweetness aids in somewhat mellowing strawberries. With this option, you receive a lot of nourishment together with smooth and sweetness.
9. Mixed Berries
Mixed berries are another preferred selection among frozen fruits. Typically, these bundles include some combination of blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries.
The combination is tasty and healthy and offers a variety of flavors.
The tastes of a mixed berry smoothie made with frozen mixed berries are amazing and are simple to make.
All berries offer excellent nutritional advantages.
They do have some naturally occurring sugars of their own, but as long as you buy a blend without added sugar, everything should be alright.
The BEST Frozen Fruit for Smoothies
Using high-quality ingredients is the secret to making a delicious smoothie. Making smoothies whenever you want is so simple when you have frozen fruit on hand. Although frozen fruit can also be used, it gives your smoothie a lovely, thick, icy texture.
Although packs of frozen fruit are available to purchase, I prefer to freeze my own whenever I can. When the fruit reaches just the right level of ripeness, you may freeze it to preserve its sweet, mouthwatering flavor and utilize it in smoothies. Additionally, you might get a better deal on produce while it is in season.
Flash Freezing Fruit and Veggies
My method of freezing fruit is known as flash freezing. Technically speaking, flash freezing is the process of rapidly freezing food at very low temperatures. Foods are flash frozen to preserve as many nutrients as possible while also ensuring that they are as delicious and fresh as feasible. However, you can simulate flash freezing at home.
- 1) Wash and/or peel your fruit/vegetable thoroughly.
- 2) Place flat on a baking tray. It’s best if your product isn’t touching, but it isn’t the end of the world if it is.
- 3) Freeze.
Yes, it is really that easy. Look at how flawless it seems after being frozen. I kept some of the stems on so that I may use them when I prepare a green smoothie (pardon the strangely squarish-looking strawberry). Our preferred frozen fruit selections for smoothies are:
- Strawberries
- Bananas
- Cherries (pitted)
- Grapes
- & peaches!
I then portion it out into bags the size of smoothies. Perfecto. I’ve got the blender all set to go. This method also works with vegetables. For smoothies, spinach is a fantastic vegetable to freeze.
For more produce freezing tips and smoothie ideas:
- Sweet and Sour Grape Smoothie
- Cherry Freeze
Seriously who needs those smoothie bag mixes when you can make your own!