Mulberry-Cream Smoothie

This is a delicious treat that tastes like a creamy, fruity milkshake. It is perfect for hot summer days and giving you an excuse to go outside, since mulberries often need to be hand-picked in June or July (though timing may vary per region)

It can easily be altered for weight loss plans, dietary needs, or taste preferences.

8 cubes of frozen milk (see notes for type of milk)

4 cups of frozen mulberries or mulberry jam

A half cup of whole milk yogurt: Any flavor works, but vanilla is my favorite

1 tablespoon of coffee creamer (Any flavor)

A spatula

A blender

Optional add-ins: Frozen strawberries, blueberries, canned fruit (any type), lemon juice, chia gel, and protein powder

Once you have gathered your ingredients, put them into your blender. I recommend starting with the solid, frozen ingredients, then doing the liquid ones. I've listed the ideal order below.

1. Mulberries
2. Milk cubes
3. Yogurt
4. Coffee creamer

Start the blender on low until you no longer hear the blades hitting large, solid pieces. Once it makes a consistent whirring sound, increase it to medium for 15 seconds, then to high for another fifteen seconds.

Stop the blender and scrape down the sides with your spatula, then mix the ingredients around. Turn the blender back on high for another 15 seconds, then medium for another 30 seconds, or until you no longer see any large pieces in the mixture.

The smoothie should be a rich fuchsia color and be sweet and creamy- like ice cream. If the fruity flavor is not strong enough, use the supplements I listed in the add-ins section.

1. Don't let the blender run for too long. The longer it runs, the more liquidy it will be. For a thicker smoothie, do it just until all of the solid chunks are gone
2. For a creamier smoothie you should use frozen cream or half and half instead of milk
3. If the smoothie seems too creamy then add more fruit 1 cup at a time until it is the desired flavor. My favorite add-ins are blueberries, strawberries, and canned fruit
4. An eighth cup of lemon juice will make the flavor pop
5. If the smoothie becomes too solid or is not creamy enough, add another tablespoon of coffee creamer
6. To make it healthier, use almond milk cubes and fat-free yogurt. You can also add in a tablespoon or two of chia seed gel to ensure you still get healthy fats
7. If you want a protein boost, add a scoop of protein powder
8. WARNING: Will stain your hands, face, and clothes a dark purple

Thank you Luke Chesser for making the background of the cover image.

https://unsplash.com/photos/dark-blue-to-purple-gradient-hQo6Uyo4nBg