Smoothies are my go-to when I want to break a streak of unhealthy choices. After a season of cookies and rich holiday food, I always appreciate a fresh, bright reset. If you feel the same, this recipe might be right up your alley.
This is a new creamsicle-inspired smoothie I’ve been enjoying, made with cara cara oranges—the variety that looks like a regular orange on the outside but has a pink interior. It’s balanced between a super-green health smoothie and something more indulgent: creamy and satisfying without feeling heavy. Below is a simple, limited-ingredient recipe so you can make it at home.
Cara Cara Orange Creamsicle Smoothie (makes 1 serving)
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cara cara orange, peeled
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk or coconut cream
- A splash of vanilla extract
Tip: Peel, slice, and freeze a ripe banana ahead of time. I usually cut bananas into quarters before freezing so they blend more easily.
To prepare the smoothie, add the frozen banana and the peeled cara cara orange to your blender, then pour in the coconut milk and add a splash of vanilla. For easier blending, place the frozen banana in first, then the orange, and add the liquid last. Blend until smooth. Pour into a glass and garnish with an orange slice if you like. You can also swap in similar citrus fruits—kumquats, tangerines, or blood oranges work well.
Recipe: Cori Maass / Photography: Brittni Mehlhoff
Are you trying to eat a bit healthier this year? If so, this smoothie is an easy, delicious way to start the day or enjoy a light snack. It’s naturally sweet from fruit, creamy without added sugar, and bright with citrus flavor—perfect when you want something that feels both wholesome and indulgent.