I first dreamed up this Bloody Berry Smoothie a few Halloweens ago when my kids were begging for something spooky and fun. I wanted to give them a treat that felt festive but was also packed with good-for-you ingredients. So, I snuck some beet juice into a berry smoothie—and the kids went wild!
This smoothie isn’t just for Halloween; it’s an easy and delicious breakfast or snack any time of year. It’s a quick way to sneak in a serving of fruits and vegetables, especially if you’re short on time in the mornings or have picky eaters to please. The vibrant color and tasty flavor are a bonus!
Why You’ll Love It
This Bloody Berry Smoothie isn’t just eye-catching; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The sweetness from the berries and honey, the tang of the yogurt, and the earthiness of the beet juice blend seamlessly into a unique flavor experience. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and protein, so you can feel good about enjoying this treat—whether it’s Halloween or any other day!
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Bloody Berry Smoothie
- Total Time: 7 mins
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
This vibrant Bloody Berry Smoothie is a fun and healthy treat for any occasion. Beet juice gives it a spooky Halloween hue while adding a boost of nutrients. It’s a quick and easy way to sneak in fruits and vegetables, perfect for busy mornings or picky eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 1/2 cup beet juice
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp honey
- Red sugar (optional, for rimming glasses)
Instructions
- Prep the Glasses: Wet the rims of two glasses and dip them in red sugar. Set aside.
- Blend the Smoothie: Combine all ingredients (berries, beet juice, yogurt, almond milk, and honey) in a blender. Blend on high until smooth (1–2 minutes).
- Serve: Pour the smoothie into the prepared glasses and serve immediately.
Notes
Frozen berries eliminate the need for ice and create a thicker smoothie. Adjust the honey according to the sweetness of your berries. Greek yogurt adds protein, but regular or plant-based yogurt works too. Experiment with different milk options like soy or coconut milk for varied flavors and textures.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 2 mins
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Blend
- Cuisine: American
What You’ll Need
This smoothie comes together with just a few simple ingredients, most of which you might already have at home. Let’s have a look:
- 1 cup mixed berries: This can be any combination of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and even blackberries. Fresh or frozen berries work equally well. I usually opt for whatever is in season (or whatever my kids haven’t devoured straight from the fridge yet!).
- 1/2 cup beet juice: Don’t be scared by the beet juice—it gives the smoothie a beautiful crimson hue and a boost of nutrients without a strong beet taste. You can usually find it in most grocery stores alongside other refrigerated juices.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt adds a creamy texture and a protein punch. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular plain yogurt will do just fine. You could also substitute a plant-based yogurt if you prefer.
- 1/2 cup almond milk: Almond milk adds a touch of sweetness and helps thin the smoothie to a perfect consistency. Feel free to use whatever milk you prefer. I’ve also used soy milk here, or even coconut milk for a thicker, creamier smoothie.
- 1 tbsp honey: Just a touch of honey balances the tartness of the berries. For a vegan smoothie, you can substitute maple syrup or agave.
- Red sugar for rimming the glasses: This is optional but so fun, especially for Halloween. It’s an easy way to make the drinks extra festive. You can find colored sugars in most baking aisles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Glasses
Rim two glasses with red sugar. To do this, wet the rim of each glass with a little water, then dip it into a shallow dish of red sugar. Set the prepared glasses aside.
Step 2: Blend the Smoothie
Add all ingredients—mixed berries, beet juice, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and honey—to a blender. Blend on high speed until completely smooth, about 1–2 minutes.
Step 3: Serve
Carefully pour the smoothie into your prepared glasses and serve immediately.
Better-Than-Grandma Tips
- For an extra icy smoothie, use frozen berries. There’s no need to add extra ice, which can water down the flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness: If your berries are particularly sweet, you might want to reduce the honey. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the smoothie ahead of time and store it in the fridge. See the FAQs below for tips on storing. Want to change up your breakfast routine? Explore our delicious breakfast recipes for more inspiration!
Switch-Ups & Swaps
- Tropical Twist: Swap the mixed berries for frozen mango chunks and the beet juice for pineapple juice for a sunny and tropical version.
- Green Goodness: Add a handful of spinach to the mix for a nutrient boost. Trust me, the berries mask the spinach flavor, so even picky eaters won’t notice it. Check out more ideas for healthy additions in the FAQs below. Looking for lunch recipes? Try our easy and delicious Korean Lunch Bowls!
What gives this smoothie its bloody red color?
The vibrant red hue comes primarily from the beet juice. Beets are a nutritional powerhouse, packing antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. You won’t taste much beet flavor, just the sweetness and that gorgeous color.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Feel free to swap out the almond milk for any milk you prefer – dairy or non-dairy both work well! Coconut milk, cashew milk, or even plain old cow’s milk will give you a creamy and satisfying result. I’ve even used soy milk before with good results.
Can I add other ingredients to boost the nutritional value?
Absolutely! Add a handful of spinach or kale for an extra boost of greens, or some chia seeds or flaxseed for added fiber and omega-3s. A dollop of nut butter (like peanut butter or almond butter) adds a creamy, protein-rich element.
Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
While this smoothie is delicious served immediately, you can also make it ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Be aware that the color may deepen slightly as the beet juice sits. Give it a good shake or stir before enjoying.
How to Serve
This Bloody Berry Smoothie is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few simple additions. For a more decadent treat, top it with whipped cream (coconut whipped cream for vegan) and a few extra berries. Add a reusable straw to make it kid-friendly and a tiny plastic vampire fang on the rim of the glass for an extra spooky touch. Serve alongside some Halloween treats like these spooky cookies for a party.
That’s a Wrap
This Bloody Berry Smoothie is more than just a spooky sip—it’s a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy a vibrant, berry-packed breakfast or snack. It’s easy to whip up, fun to customize, and sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Feel free to share your spooky creations using #BloodyBerrySmoothie. I’d love to see them!
Looking for other breakfast ideas? Try our pancakes. I think you’ll love them! Don’t forget to check us out on Pinterest and Facebook! For quick video tutorials and behind-the-scenes kitchen fun, our Instagram and YouTube channels are the places to be!
