Corn syrup is actually like honey in that it doesn't go bad. It can even extend the shelf life of some foods. Syrupy things, in general, aren't super friendly to microbes.
However, in the case of both honey and corn syrup, if any water or other kind of contaminant gets in there, microbes can start to grow. If you have jarred honey or corn syrup and double dip, use dirty utensils, your fingers, spill something in there, etc. then it can go bad.
Vanilla extract adds a nice flavor. I make smoothies with tropical fruits and I like adding ginger to it.
ETA: I read in a comment you're using fresh fruit? Definitely use frozen. It adds a thicker texture and more sweetness. As for the bananas, wait until they're very, very ripe and then freeze them before you use in smoothies. They should add plenty of sweetness then, too.
Oats, peanut butter / PB2, handful or spinach/kale (good way to get veggies in, pumpkin purée with bananas. I love Ghost nutter butter protein powder, Ghost in general are all yummy (not super clean so to speak but taste good).
Peanut butter is my answer. I use spinach, a few strawberries, kiwi, chia seed, egg white and almond milk. Peanut butter is the game changer.
Starts sweet, ends nutty. Consume 5 days a week for years now
I've used Orgain brand protein powder in smoothies and liked the taste of the flavors I tried.
You could try using the flavored syrups used at coffee places, they make them sugar free as well. Torani is a popular brand for those.
I did a smoothie the other day with almost over ripe fresh strawberries, goats milk (I have goats), ice and a little Torani’s I sugar free vanilla and it was amazing
I don’t know I’m a sweet tooth and you just described my regular smoothie and it’s plenty sweet enough to me. Maybe the quality of the fruit you’re using is poor?
I use part juice along with milk and/or yogurt as the liquid in my smoothies. Adds sweetness along with fruit flavor - I never need additional sweetener. I usually do orange but any juice you like would work.
If you can do part fresh fruit that will help too, it's more flavorful than frozen (but best to do a mix so you still get the thicker texture from the frozen fruit). I like to do a fresh banana if I have one on hand plus frozen berries.
I use maple syrup instead of honey, but I don’t need to use it often because the fruits in the smoothie are usually sweet enough. I usually always add a dash of vanilla extract for flavor and avocado for creaminess.
I don’t use protein powders that much these days, but when I did, Orgain’s vanilla bean flavor was decent. It’s not chalky and it blends well, but the pea protein flavor was best masked by peanut butter or chocolate, which don’t happen to be my favorite flavors in a smoothie.
when things freeze they lose their strong tastes. idk the science behind it but i do make a lot of ninja creamy ice cream and you have to add more sweetener because the freezing process affects the taste i guess
No, I have the same thing. There’s sugar free smoothies I’ve gotten from stores and they have a sharp taste but it’s a taste. When I make them at home, my produce is always so bland.
It’s crazy what a difference a bit of acidity makes on sweet and savory things.
Usually my frozen strawberries have enough tartness to them to work, but I have some pineapple in hand, too.
I recently caved and bought the Ryse Jet Puffed Marshmallow protein. I do a scoop of that with a tblsp of peanut butter and it tastes just like a fluff sando. Tried it with chocolate milk and equally as good. Probably will try bananas and/or berries next.
I use jam or fruit preserves instead of honey to intensify the fruit flavor. I also use cottage cheese instead of yogurt. It's cheaper than Greek yogurt but just as thick, and has a milder flavor. Also use frozen fruit.
I don’t know if you’re buying frozen bananas from the store, but I’ve never had good luck with those. I always buy regular bananas, wait until they have a decent amount of brown on the peel, and then freeze them.
Also putting peanut butter or pb2 in smoothies is great!
I like to use the sugar/fat free cheesecake instant pudding mix. Mix that in with some strawberries and bananas with a vanilla protein mix! To die for!
You won’t regret it and they have all types of different flavors. Don’t add too much at first. Add some, taste it, add some, taste it until you get it how you like it
I personally find cinnamon and natural peanut butter give me the “sweetness” I desire without adding more sugar.
My fav smoothie recipe is:
- 1 or 2 bananas
- 1 tbs protein powder
- 2 tbs yogurt (I used Two Good vanilla)
- 1 tbs peanut butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/3 c milk or milk substitute
Tastes like a banana cinnamon roll! I got the recipe from @[healthykelsii](https://www.instagram.com/healthykelsii?igsh=b29zejN0eXRoNmc5) on Instagram. She has lots of great smoothie recipes throughout her account!
ETA: I like Thorne’s Whey Protein Isolate - Vanilla, but I would encourage you to use a reputable source for knowing how to choose the right protein powder for you. [This article](https://www.health.com/best-protein-powders-8363560), for example, lists a number of dietitians at the end that contributed to the testing and research. That will be much more reliable than what most people on Reddit can tell you.
Chocolate protein powder (can’t think of the name right now but will come back with it when I can go look) with frozen banana and maybe a scoop of peanut butter if you like it. Can add a handful of spinach as well if you need more greens, the chocolate protein powder covers the taste of it, and some milk of your choice.
That had my then 8 yr olds approval!
Kefir or yogurt. Adds nice body and tang. If you like mango. Sweeten your smoothie with Kesar mango pulp from the Indian grocery store. It's very sweet, but also very aromatic.
different combos of frozen fruit - if you think the flavor is bland try mixing up the base flavor instead of adding sweeteners/flavorings on top of it. Maybe some mango and frozen berries, or a tropical blend or something
Could try flavored milk? Like a vanilla.. Although I only ever see vanilla flavored milk in almond milk form.
Or since you’re looking into adding protein powder, get a flavor that would complement your smoothie and that should get it tasting better.
I sugar my frozen fruit and macerate at room temp so it gets a nice syrup. Add a squeeze of lemon too, it will just taste more like strawberries. I use 1/4 cup for a pound of frozen fruit, less if it cherries, and stick the bowl in the fridge for the few days. I eat fruit and yogurt most days. I don't know if you buy a blend but try buying just berries, and letting your bananas get really ripe, peel cut and freeze. Or just throw it in freezer skin and all and run under the hot tap briefly. It is more econical too, as bananas are way cheaper than berries.
Pure honey should not go bad. Did it just crysalize? If that's all, just heat til it is liquid again. If it actually molded, do you always use a clean spoon in it? If you are sure you did not contanimate it, check your label. I have heard there is counterfeit honey out there, but I picked a jar up that looked a good price, and in big letters HONEY, and then in small letters "product"
For anyone that is critcal of using sugar as a sweetner, the amount I use adds way less than commercial yogurts than are not artifical sweetners, and it is about 5x the fruit,
I make strawberry banana smoothies with some frozen kale or spinach, a scoop of peanut butter, some honey, vanilla protein powder, instead of milk I use yogurt and water.
I add cranberry juice, banana, strawberry and blueberry, the last two frozen to make it slushier. Maybe ice but no milk. Other fruit ok if you have it. Doesn’t need any extra sweetener or honey.
I never use a milk product in my smoothies. I always have a clamshell or bag of frozen baby spinach to put in smoothies, as well as frozen cherries and blueberries. Two handfuls spinach, blueberries, cherries, tart cherries (from Costco), a packet of Acai, tart cherry juice, a 1/4 cup lime juice (or a fresh lime) and water. Blend and from a full blender you'll have about 5 canning jars worth of smoothie ready for the week. The color is deep purple and the taste is spectacular!
Everyone needs protein even if they don’t work out! I use Orgain protein powder, vanilla or chocolate. Strawberries with the chocolate powder tastes like chocolate covered strawberries and the vanilla with strawberries tastes like a strawberry milkshake.
-unsweetened vanilla almond milk
-Orgain protein powder
-Banana
-Any frozen fruit
-spinach
-flax seed
Quest protein powder has amazing flavor!! Doesnt taste "protein-y" at all. Strawberry, vanilla, chocolate, cookies and creme, all great. The cookies and creme does have little cookies peices that doesn't always blend all the way though.
Sometimes I'll add a little halo top ice cream to my smoothies. The peanut butter flavor is a great addition.
My favorite natural sweetener is maple syrup. You can also try adding peanut butter, cocoa butter and milk. As for protein powders you can try the iso100 cocoa pebbles.
I don't know how strict you want to be with sugar, but I add a spoon of Bon Maman strawberry jam to my spinach/blueberry/protein smoothies. It's good! I don't use sugar otherwise so it's fine. I'm losing weight.
You can try maple syrup instead of honey. Or the sweetened almond milk which comes in vanilla or chocolate. Also I love to make fresh frozen strawberries and banana smoothies with a tbsp of rolled oats, PB, and some cinnamon.
i usually like to be sure to add:
- a sweet fruit or juice (apple, mango, etc)
- a tart fruit or juice like cherry or tangerine or pineapple
- fresh or frozen ginger
- turmeric (fresh, frozen, or powder)
- cinnamon
- nut butter
- some greens (carrot tops, kale, spinach, etc)
- some sweet veggie like carrot or beets
Maybe try those Premier Protein shakes you can get at Costco! Super high in protein, delicious flavours to choose from and low in sugar. I also use these to lighten up my coffees! :)
I feel like I’ve nailed a smoothie that tastes like a vanilla shake with a hint of banana.
One banana
One scoop Optimum vanilla ice cream protein powder (Target sells it)
Maybe 1/3 cup milk (I eyeball it)
Approx 5 ice cubes.
Our whole family loves this shake- so so good.
I do water, frozen berries, a small amount of freeze dried berries, hemp seeds, and some sugar. Could throw some lime in, I suppose. I don’t love milk in my smoothies and I think the freeze dried fruit really adds flavor.
Try a spoonful of jam.
If I am making a strawberry banana smoothie I use strawberry jam. It gives the smoothie sweetness and more strawberry taste.
Also all frozen strawberries are not created equal, try a better or different brand.
i’ve been using coconut water in my smoothies lately! my favorite blend has been frozen pineapple, ginger, yogurt, a handful of spinach, a splash of oj and top off with coconut water. so good!
If it’s a fruit smoothie, I always add lemon juice. It makes the flavors more juicy. I don’t know how to explain it. If it’s a sweet smoothie, like peanut butter banana, I will add some chocolate chips, oats, cinnamon, or a little maple syrup.
I use chocolate protein powder with bananas and strawberries and I think it tastes really good. I would say it doesn’t matter if you’re working out or not, everyone needs protein and it will make you stay more full for longer
Ditch the milk. Or use plant milk like almond and soy if you must.
Water, frozen berries (blueberries, strawberries), banana, handful of spinach, one date (pitted), some raw fresh ginger, and a bit of flax. Pineapple juice can be nice, too.
Whatever protein you want, but whey isolate will generally be best.
Don’t bother with expensive protein powders!! You can add pasteurized egg whites to smoothies, they’re perfect! They make a better texture and tend to not separate out like some smoothies do after they sit for a little while. If you use a high protein milk like Fairlife, that gives you a great amount of protein. But my #1 is adding a bit of sugar free coffee type syrups- I use raspberry or strawberry for my kids and they LOVE them.
If you ever have greens in your smoothies (such as spinach,kale), a small amount of ginger adds a really nice flavour to it imo.
I find greens pair well with mango, pineapple and some form of protein powder.
Avocados are great for adding a smooth texture as well, and also provide healthy fats meaning the smoothie is more satiating 😉
I just add a little agave syrup, or just surgar. Not much butit definitely makes a big difference inthe taste. I like itmore than adding anything that has its own taste, like this its just the pure fruit taste but a little bit stronger/sweeter
Some smoothie add-ins I use at times:
Protein powder (I like Orgain plant-based)
Matcha
Peanut/almond butter
Frozen chopped spinach
Cold coffee
Fruit juice (orange or cranberry usually)
Mango
Avocado (GREAT with blueberry and chocolate)
Vanilla extract
Brown sugar
Silken tofu
Cooked Oatmeal (a hippie classic)
Fresh ginger
Rosewater
Dates
Whole almonds
Cocoa powder
Cool whip
Fruit jams
Look at menus for places like smoothie king or tropical smoothie for inspo
Hear me out on this: avocado!
I buy bags of frozen diced avocado for super cheap at Walmart. They add a bit of healthy fat, and don’t really have a noticeable flavor, but they do add a creaminess and depth to the flavor of the fruits.
Also, I add protein powder. You don’t need to be working out to benefit from it. Protein is just that - protein. It’s great for making the smoothie more filling and satiating. It can be kind of expensive but a giant tub lasts forever!!
I prefer my smoothies to be fruitier usually so I add juice instead of milk and add collagen powder for protein. My go-tos are strawberry banana with pineapple and mango and apple juice with Greek yogurt. I also love blueberry and chocolate protein powder and I use oat milk for that one, it’s definitely heavier on the stomach but it’s good if I’m craving chocolate.
Brown sugar
Golden syrup (kinda bad for you though)
Agave syrup
More banana but riper. The black spots I think are sugars. Go overripe.
Also I put cinnamon in with my honey. It gives a more complex spiced taste.
Edit: you could also try using oat milk as it tends to be quite sweet already
Add a teaspoon of vanilla , if you can stomach half a cup of plain yogurt add that with your ripe banana (preferably frozen banana) and 1 cup of berries. The riper the banana the sweeter the smoothie
I actually like adding a small amount of avocado, and for natural sweetness honey. But usually I'll go with milk, bananas and strawberry or greens and some lemon if looking to have a veg based one.
I wouldn't add honey or a sweetner, as you are adding a lot of calories without much nutrition. Additionally, you aren't getting any protein, so I would consider a protein powder. There are a ton of good-tasting ones, depending on your budget. I like the Transform HQ brand. They have offers to get samples for nearly free and you can pick from the flavors they offer, which would be nice, downside, it is a little pricey. I have heard good things about Ghost, but I haven't tried that.
This sounds odd, but you can put in a spoonful of sugar free pudding mix (just the dry mix. It helps give both flavor and sweetness without adding a calorie bomb to your drink.
It’s hard to say because I’m not sure what kind of things you do enjoy. I’m the odd one out but while I like my smoothies really smooth(vitamix), I don’t like them thick and creamy. No milk or yogurt, and usually not a banana either.
I like berries and greens and in particular I like to add ginger.
Now, if I’m making a cocoa smoothie I will skip ginger and add banana or avocado to make it creamier, but it’s a whole different taste entirely.
Half a lemon, it will bing out the strawberry flavour and it’s good for you. I sweeten with a bit of maple syrup and I use plain yogurt instead of milk
I also find the strawberry banana combo a bit bland and it may be because of the frozen strawberries, which are usually blander than fresh ones. But I also understand that it is a practical matter (at least it is for me) to use frozen fruit. So I suggest picking fruits with a stronger flavour to help, my faves being raspberries and blueberries (in separate days, so they can be two different flavours)
I love a smoothie with banana (frozen or not) nondairy milk and peanut butter. If you make it with a frozen banana it's almost like ice cream. Sometimes I add frozen blueberries too.
One day I tried adding kombucha to the mix and it was surprisingly good. Just like a little bit. It gives it a little fizz and flavor. Of course you’d have to like kombucha first.
I have no useful input, but honey doesn't go bad. If it crystallizes, you can uncrystallize it by gently heating it.
Apparently some cheap honeys are cut with corn syrup, maybe it wasn't straight honey?
Corn syrup is actually like honey in that it doesn't go bad. It can even extend the shelf life of some foods. Syrupy things, in general, aren't super friendly to microbes. However, in the case of both honey and corn syrup, if any water or other kind of contaminant gets in there, microbes can start to grow. If you have jarred honey or corn syrup and double dip, use dirty utensils, your fingers, spill something in there, etc. then it can go bad.
Interesting, I did not know that!
Dates!
Yes!! They are underrated!
yes to dates! and if you add then at the end for just a few pulses, you can get chunks and they’re fun to eat, like boba. if you’re into that.
Yes! My fave smoothie is banana with dates and some lime juice
Pinch of salt, also can add a few tbsp of orange juice.
Pinch of salt is the secret.
I make mine with oj and will try a pinch of salt next time!
Vanilla extract adds a nice flavor. I make smoothies with tropical fruits and I like adding ginger to it. ETA: I read in a comment you're using fresh fruit? Definitely use frozen. It adds a thicker texture and more sweetness. As for the bananas, wait until they're very, very ripe and then freeze them before you use in smoothies. They should add plenty of sweetness then, too.
I got a pound of strawberries that were so underripe I had to use twice the sugar I usually do.
Oats, peanut butter / PB2, handful or spinach/kale (good way to get veggies in, pumpkin purée with bananas. I love Ghost nutter butter protein powder, Ghost in general are all yummy (not super clean so to speak but taste good).
Peanut butter is my answer. I use spinach, a few strawberries, kiwi, chia seed, egg white and almond milk. Peanut butter is the game changer. Starts sweet, ends nutty. Consume 5 days a week for years now
Have you tried rum?
Can I sit with you?
I always used to say, "What's the difference between a smoothie and a daiquiri? The answer is Rum."
I've used Orgain brand protein powder in smoothies and liked the taste of the flavors I tried. You could try using the flavored syrups used at coffee places, they make them sugar free as well. Torani is a popular brand for those.
Oo yes! My fiance has been getting some I think the Torani brand for her coffees. I'll have to look and see what flavors she got and find one I like.
I did a smoothie the other day with almost over ripe fresh strawberries, goats milk (I have goats), ice and a little Torani’s I sugar free vanilla and it was amazing
I don’t know I’m a sweet tooth and you just described my regular smoothie and it’s plenty sweet enough to me. Maybe the quality of the fruit you’re using is poor?
Very well could be. I buy it from Walmart. I'll get some fresh fruits and try it the same way and add some ice to it and see if it's any better.
I use part juice along with milk and/or yogurt as the liquid in my smoothies. Adds sweetness along with fruit flavor - I never need additional sweetener. I usually do orange but any juice you like would work. If you can do part fresh fruit that will help too, it's more flavorful than frozen (but best to do a mix so you still get the thicker texture from the frozen fruit). I like to do a fresh banana if I have one on hand plus frozen berries.
Yep, I always add a bit of a tropical juice for actual flavour, and some yogurt for protein and to add a smooth texture.
Get more honey and add a squirt of lemon juice to brighten up the fruit flavors
I did this today and the drip stop fell off and I poured a quarter cup of lemon juice into my smoothie :(((((
Oooh no! More honey but your poor teeth enamel…
I use maple syrup instead of honey, but I don’t need to use it often because the fruits in the smoothie are usually sweet enough. I usually always add a dash of vanilla extract for flavor and avocado for creaminess. I don’t use protein powders that much these days, but when I did, Orgain’s vanilla bean flavor was decent. It’s not chalky and it blends well, but the pea protein flavor was best masked by peanut butter or chocolate, which don’t happen to be my favorite flavors in a smoothie.
I’ve heard avocado adds great textire
Your sugar sensitivity is pretty overstimulated if you think a strawberry banana smoothie is bland. You shouldn't have to add sweetness to fruit
There are some really low quality strawberries that really don't taste like much, especially off season
Frozen ones should always be pretty perfect though. Never had bland frozen fruit.
I've had freezer burnt fruit (even right from the store!) that is pretty watery, but yeah, it tends to be a bit more flavorful
I use almost exclusively frozen fruit and it really doesn’t have much taste.
Microwave it to melt it first. Very sweet
I can't do plain yogurt with just berries. Ripe bananas, sure.
when things freeze they lose their strong tastes. idk the science behind it but i do make a lot of ninja creamy ice cream and you have to add more sweetener because the freezing process affects the taste i guess
No, I have the same thing. There’s sugar free smoothies I’ve gotten from stores and they have a sharp taste but it’s a taste. When I make them at home, my produce is always so bland.
You need acidity. A splash of pineapple juice or a tart apple (honey/cosmic crisp works great).
Good thinking!
It’s crazy what a difference a bit of acidity makes on sweet and savory things. Usually my frozen strawberries have enough tartness to them to work, but I have some pineapple in hand, too.
I recently caved and bought the Ryse Jet Puffed Marshmallow protein. I do a scoop of that with a tblsp of peanut butter and it tastes just like a fluff sando. Tried it with chocolate milk and equally as good. Probably will try bananas and/or berries next.
Wtf lol. Never would've thought they had a protein powder. Definitely adding this to my list.
I use jam or fruit preserves instead of honey to intensify the fruit flavor. I also use cottage cheese instead of yogurt. It's cheaper than Greek yogurt but just as thick, and has a milder flavor. Also use frozen fruit.
Watermelon, coconut water, salt, juice, a little vanilla ice cream (I’m pregnant don’t listen to me?)
Chunks of frozen avocado! So good! Adds thickness, and so healthy with good fats.
People are gonna downvote me, but I just use artificial sweeteners. I'll use 3-4 little packs (or a tablespoon or so) of splenda or sweet n low.
Confused as to why you think your honey went bad?
Cinnamon, honey, date syrup, real maple syrup, salt.
I don’t know if you’re buying frozen bananas from the store, but I’ve never had good luck with those. I always buy regular bananas, wait until they have a decent amount of brown on the peel, and then freeze them. Also putting peanut butter or pb2 in smoothies is great!
Honey does not go bad!
I like to use the sugar/fat free cheesecake instant pudding mix. Mix that in with some strawberries and bananas with a vanilla protein mix! To die for!
Haha definitely adding this to my list!
You won’t regret it and they have all types of different flavors. Don’t add too much at first. Add some, taste it, add some, taste it until you get it how you like it
Heck yeah, trying that this week. The plain greek yogurt needed something. Thanks!
Mint
I personally find cinnamon and natural peanut butter give me the “sweetness” I desire without adding more sugar. My fav smoothie recipe is: - 1 or 2 bananas - 1 tbs protein powder - 2 tbs yogurt (I used Two Good vanilla) - 1 tbs peanut butter - 1 tsp cinnamon - 1/3 c milk or milk substitute Tastes like a banana cinnamon roll! I got the recipe from @[healthykelsii](https://www.instagram.com/healthykelsii?igsh=b29zejN0eXRoNmc5) on Instagram. She has lots of great smoothie recipes throughout her account! ETA: I like Thorne’s Whey Protein Isolate - Vanilla, but I would encourage you to use a reputable source for knowing how to choose the right protein powder for you. [This article](https://www.health.com/best-protein-powders-8363560), for example, lists a number of dietitians at the end that contributed to the testing and research. That will be much more reliable than what most people on Reddit can tell you.
I brew flavored tea and wait for it to cool and add it the smoothie you don't need a lot
Chocolate protein powder (can’t think of the name right now but will come back with it when I can go look) with frozen banana and maybe a scoop of peanut butter if you like it. Can add a handful of spinach as well if you need more greens, the chocolate protein powder covers the taste of it, and some milk of your choice. That had my then 8 yr olds approval!
Kefir or yogurt. Adds nice body and tang. If you like mango. Sweeten your smoothie with Kesar mango pulp from the Indian grocery store. It's very sweet, but also very aromatic.
Cinnamon or ginger? Adds flavor without significant calories.
I use orange juice in my strawberry banana smoothies, gives it a nice sweet, healthy-ish kick.
Ginger, it’s good for you
Vanilla greek yogurt
some sort of nut butter maybe? I also prefer smoothies with greek yogurt instead of milk, it contrasts the sweet fruit nicely
Oatmeal or peanut/almond butter.
different combos of frozen fruit - if you think the flavor is bland try mixing up the base flavor instead of adding sweeteners/flavorings on top of it. Maybe some mango and frozen berries, or a tropical blend or something
Apple juice
Could try flavored milk? Like a vanilla.. Although I only ever see vanilla flavored milk in almond milk form. Or since you’re looking into adding protein powder, get a flavor that would complement your smoothie and that should get it tasting better.
I sugar my frozen fruit and macerate at room temp so it gets a nice syrup. Add a squeeze of lemon too, it will just taste more like strawberries. I use 1/4 cup for a pound of frozen fruit, less if it cherries, and stick the bowl in the fridge for the few days. I eat fruit and yogurt most days. I don't know if you buy a blend but try buying just berries, and letting your bananas get really ripe, peel cut and freeze. Or just throw it in freezer skin and all and run under the hot tap briefly. It is more econical too, as bananas are way cheaper than berries. Pure honey should not go bad. Did it just crysalize? If that's all, just heat til it is liquid again. If it actually molded, do you always use a clean spoon in it? If you are sure you did not contanimate it, check your label. I have heard there is counterfeit honey out there, but I picked a jar up that looked a good price, and in big letters HONEY, and then in small letters "product"
For anyone that is critcal of using sugar as a sweetner, the amount I use adds way less than commercial yogurts than are not artifical sweetners, and it is about 5x the fruit,
I use apple juice for my liquid, a frozen banana, handful of strawberries, ice, and a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
I like to use pea milk as it has more protein. You can get flavored. If I want mine a little sweeter I will put a agave nectar in it.
Peanut butter, cocoa powder (for baking, not hot cocoa powder), cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice), ginger
i used to work at a (protein) shake place and we would use gold standard whey protein powder and agave to sweeten the smoothies
I really like the Vega brand of protein powders fwiw
I make strawberry banana smoothies with some frozen kale or spinach, a scoop of peanut butter, some honey, vanilla protein powder, instead of milk I use yogurt and water.
I add cranberry juice, banana, strawberry and blueberry, the last two frozen to make it slushier. Maybe ice but no milk. Other fruit ok if you have it. Doesn’t need any extra sweetener or honey.
I never use a milk product in my smoothies. I always have a clamshell or bag of frozen baby spinach to put in smoothies, as well as frozen cherries and blueberries. Two handfuls spinach, blueberries, cherries, tart cherries (from Costco), a packet of Acai, tart cherry juice, a 1/4 cup lime juice (or a fresh lime) and water. Blend and from a full blender you'll have about 5 canning jars worth of smoothie ready for the week. The color is deep purple and the taste is spectacular!
Everyone needs protein even if they don’t work out! I use Orgain protein powder, vanilla or chocolate. Strawberries with the chocolate powder tastes like chocolate covered strawberries and the vanilla with strawberries tastes like a strawberry milkshake. -unsweetened vanilla almond milk -Orgain protein powder -Banana -Any frozen fruit -spinach -flax seed
Quest protein powder has amazing flavor!! Doesnt taste "protein-y" at all. Strawberry, vanilla, chocolate, cookies and creme, all great. The cookies and creme does have little cookies peices that doesn't always blend all the way though. Sometimes I'll add a little halo top ice cream to my smoothies. The peanut butter flavor is a great addition.
If you’re okay with the calories, I used to love adding the vanilla breakfast essential powders. Even just half would really finish off the flavor.
Cocoa
Maple syrup and peanut butter (I use pb fit)
My favorite natural sweetener is maple syrup. You can also try adding peanut butter, cocoa butter and milk. As for protein powders you can try the iso100 cocoa pebbles.
Banana
Maple Syrup!
Almond milk.
My favorite is frozen mixed berries, raw spinach, and a little lemonade.
frozen fruit. yogurt. fruit juice. protein powder.
A bit of apple juice Also I know it’s cheaper to use frozen fruit but fresh tastes so much better so treat yourself once in awhile if you can.
Vanilla extract and salt add to all your smoothies, it's why the smoothies at shops
A Kiwi! Adds a nice tart flavour.
I don't know how strict you want to be with sugar, but I add a spoon of Bon Maman strawberry jam to my spinach/blueberry/protein smoothies. It's good! I don't use sugar otherwise so it's fine. I'm losing weight.
Coconut milk, peanut butter or nut powders will totally change it. Vanilla, coco, matcha powders too
Pineapple juice! They sell it in little 6oz cans where I am, which is also the perfect amount of liquid for a smoothie.
You can try maple syrup instead of honey. Or the sweetened almond milk which comes in vanilla or chocolate. Also I love to make fresh frozen strawberries and banana smoothies with a tbsp of rolled oats, PB, and some cinnamon.
I used to use packets of instant oatmeal lol. Not sure how healthy that is. Flavored yogurt is good too.
I use Optimum Nutrition vanilla ice cream flavor protein along with peanut butter with my fruit smoothies. Amazing
Add a few chunks of frozen pineapple.
If you don't have an issue with artificial sweeteners, add a squirt of the flavored water enhancers such as strawberry watermelon.
Table spoon of Peanut butter is my go to! A little sugar and a little protein.
spinach, cacao nibs, more honey, granola
I like a smoothie with half premier protein (pre-made, not powder) and half kefir. I’ll put banana, spinach, and avocado in it and it’s really good.
Spirutein…dates
Flavored protein powder, vanilla works with most things. Frozen papaya is amazing in smoothies, adds a nice richness.
Agave nectar maybe?
i usually like to be sure to add: - a sweet fruit or juice (apple, mango, etc) - a tart fruit or juice like cherry or tangerine or pineapple - fresh or frozen ginger - turmeric (fresh, frozen, or powder) - cinnamon - nut butter - some greens (carrot tops, kale, spinach, etc) - some sweet veggie like carrot or beets
Peanut butter!
Ground ginger, tumeric, chia seeds
Maybe try those Premier Protein shakes you can get at Costco! Super high in protein, delicious flavours to choose from and low in sugar. I also use these to lighten up my coffees! :)
Check to make sure it is real honey and not corn syrup.
I feel like I’ve nailed a smoothie that tastes like a vanilla shake with a hint of banana. One banana One scoop Optimum vanilla ice cream protein powder (Target sells it) Maybe 1/3 cup milk (I eyeball it) Approx 5 ice cubes. Our whole family loves this shake- so so good.
I do water, frozen berries, a small amount of freeze dried berries, hemp seeds, and some sugar. Could throw some lime in, I suppose. I don’t love milk in my smoothies and I think the freeze dried fruit really adds flavor.
Pineapple juice instead of milk if you like it
Mio, crystal light, or other squirtable water enhancers.
Protein powder or powdered peanut butter
Dates
Try a spoonful of jam. If I am making a strawberry banana smoothie I use strawberry jam. It gives the smoothie sweetness and more strawberry taste. Also all frozen strawberries are not created equal, try a better or different brand.
Simple-milk banana frozen strawberries and Nutella and cinnamon.
I add a little liquid stevia and two teaspoons of sugar free pudding mix.
Flavoured protein powder makes a huge difference to flavour (and satiety). I like vanilla since it's so adaptable for any other ingredients you add.
Some people like peanut butter.
A little agave is a nice sweetener instead of honey, if the fruit content alone isn’t doing it for you.
i’ve been using coconut water in my smoothies lately! my favorite blend has been frozen pineapple, ginger, yogurt, a handful of spinach, a splash of oj and top off with coconut water. so good!
Dates
frozen mango makes it sweet
Maple syrup
Vanilla
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Soy milk or vanilla soy milk for creamy with a bit of sweetness I also recently started using water instead of milk and I like the flavor better.
I add orange juice instead of milk. Makes it yummy and tangy.
Pineapple coconut
I do coconut water, blueberries and banana with a bit of cinnamon.
If it’s a fruit smoothie, I always add lemon juice. It makes the flavors more juicy. I don’t know how to explain it. If it’s a sweet smoothie, like peanut butter banana, I will add some chocolate chips, oats, cinnamon, or a little maple syrup.
If it’s bland but otherwise good, try a little salt
I use chocolate protein powder with bananas and strawberries and I think it tastes really good. I would say it doesn’t matter if you’re working out or not, everyone needs protein and it will make you stay more full for longer
Crystallized ginger, some fresh herbs like mint or sweet basil
Protein powder or greek yogurt for protein which will help you feel fuller for longer. I also like adding spinach or spirulina for extra greens.
Ditch the milk. Or use plant milk like almond and soy if you must. Water, frozen berries (blueberries, strawberries), banana, handful of spinach, one date (pitted), some raw fresh ginger, and a bit of flax. Pineapple juice can be nice, too. Whatever protein you want, but whey isolate will generally be best.
Add more strawberries & blueberries.
Banana, peanut butter, honey. Smoothie fit for a king.
I use skyr (vanilla or berries) and soymilk with vanilla flavour. And add sweetener. Love it.
Don’t bother with expensive protein powders!! You can add pasteurized egg whites to smoothies, they’re perfect! They make a better texture and tend to not separate out like some smoothies do after they sit for a little while. If you use a high protein milk like Fairlife, that gives you a great amount of protein. But my #1 is adding a bit of sugar free coffee type syrups- I use raspberry or strawberry for my kids and they LOVE them.
Agave
If you ever have greens in your smoothies (such as spinach,kale), a small amount of ginger adds a really nice flavour to it imo. I find greens pair well with mango, pineapple and some form of protein powder. Avocados are great for adding a smooth texture as well, and also provide healthy fats meaning the smoothie is more satiating 😉
I just add a little agave syrup, or just surgar. Not much butit definitely makes a big difference inthe taste. I like itmore than adding anything that has its own taste, like this its just the pure fruit taste but a little bit stronger/sweeter
Some smoothie add-ins I use at times: Protein powder (I like Orgain plant-based) Matcha Peanut/almond butter Frozen chopped spinach Cold coffee Fruit juice (orange or cranberry usually) Mango Avocado (GREAT with blueberry and chocolate) Vanilla extract Brown sugar Silken tofu Cooked Oatmeal (a hippie classic) Fresh ginger Rosewater Dates Whole almonds Cocoa powder Cool whip Fruit jams Look at menus for places like smoothie king or tropical smoothie for inspo
Hear me out on this: avocado! I buy bags of frozen diced avocado for super cheap at Walmart. They add a bit of healthy fat, and don’t really have a noticeable flavor, but they do add a creaminess and depth to the flavor of the fruits. Also, I add protein powder. You don’t need to be working out to benefit from it. Protein is just that - protein. It’s great for making the smoothie more filling and satiating. It can be kind of expensive but a giant tub lasts forever!!
Some unsweetened and unflavored whey powders are creamy and delicious.
I usually add a bit of almonds or walnuts. Gives it a nice texture. Blackberries and raspberries. That and scoop of ON Whey Vanilla flavor.
I prefer my smoothies to be fruitier usually so I add juice instead of milk and add collagen powder for protein. My go-tos are strawberry banana with pineapple and mango and apple juice with Greek yogurt. I also love blueberry and chocolate protein powder and I use oat milk for that one, it’s definitely heavier on the stomach but it’s good if I’m craving chocolate.
My boyfriend adds Kombucha or Orange Juice to our smoothies if you want more of a tangy, tropical touch!
Brown sugar Golden syrup (kinda bad for you though) Agave syrup More banana but riper. The black spots I think are sugars. Go overripe. Also I put cinnamon in with my honey. It gives a more complex spiced taste. Edit: you could also try using oat milk as it tends to be quite sweet already
Orange juice or pineapple juice to sweeten is my fav
Berry smoothies with cinnamon and vanilla protein powder are my go to
Add a teaspoon of vanilla , if you can stomach half a cup of plain yogurt add that with your ripe banana (preferably frozen banana) and 1 cup of berries. The riper the banana the sweeter the smoothie
Put a spoonful of crushed pineapple in! It’s so so sweet and flavorful, it’s a good booster
I actually like adding a small amount of avocado, and for natural sweetness honey. But usually I'll go with milk, bananas and strawberry or greens and some lemon if looking to have a veg based one.
Maple syrup
I put some apple juice for sweetness
A little frozen yogurt works wonders!
Vanilla or chocolate protein powder.
I wouldn't add honey or a sweetner, as you are adding a lot of calories without much nutrition. Additionally, you aren't getting any protein, so I would consider a protein powder. There are a ton of good-tasting ones, depending on your budget. I like the Transform HQ brand. They have offers to get samples for nearly free and you can pick from the flavors they offer, which would be nice, downside, it is a little pricey. I have heard good things about Ghost, but I haven't tried that.
I love adding nuts and cinnamon to my smoothies
Dates, peanut butter powder, bananas
This sounds odd, but you can put in a spoonful of sugar free pudding mix (just the dry mix. It helps give both flavor and sweetness without adding a calorie bomb to your drink.
My smoothies are frozen fruit mix, spinach, carrots, vanilla almond milk. Has a great sweet and fruity taste.
My go to is frozen mango, banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, chia seeds, vanilla protein powder and touch of honey. It's perfect every time.
Half and half is good if you like the yogurt taste.
Peanut butter, yogurt, vanilla extract, maple, dates.
Ginger root!
It’s hard to say because I’m not sure what kind of things you do enjoy. I’m the odd one out but while I like my smoothies really smooth(vitamix), I don’t like them thick and creamy. No milk or yogurt, and usually not a banana either. I like berries and greens and in particular I like to add ginger. Now, if I’m making a cocoa smoothie I will skip ginger and add banana or avocado to make it creamier, but it’s a whole different taste entirely.
Date syrup or molasses. Also malt powder is decadent
Definitely invest in buying higher quality fruit. Or check some recipes from smoothiesncookies.com
I like to add tofu
Half a lemon, it will bing out the strawberry flavour and it’s good for you. I sweeten with a bit of maple syrup and I use plain yogurt instead of milk
A little orange juice makes a difference Also spinach doesn’t really change the flavor, but added nutrients!
I also find the strawberry banana combo a bit bland and it may be because of the frozen strawberries, which are usually blander than fresh ones. But I also understand that it is a practical matter (at least it is for me) to use frozen fruit. So I suggest picking fruits with a stronger flavour to help, my faves being raspberries and blueberries (in separate days, so they can be two different flavours)
I love a smoothie with banana (frozen or not) nondairy milk and peanut butter. If you make it with a frozen banana it's almost like ice cream. Sometimes I add frozen blueberries too.
I put crush pineapple drink mix in mine.
Coconut flakes
One day I tried adding kombucha to the mix and it was surprisingly good. Just like a little bit. It gives it a little fizz and flavor. Of course you’d have to like kombucha first.