If you are on the lookout for a drink that is refreshing, packed with vibrant flavors, and also incredibly nourishing, you have to try this Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius Recipe. This delightful blend combines the natural sweetness of oranges and bananas with the zing of fresh ginger and turmeric, creating a luscious smoothie that feels like sunshine in a glass. Whether you’re craving a bright morning boost or a midday refresher, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for its perfect balance of health and indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together in the most magical way in this recipe. Each element plays a key role, contributing to the creamy texture, vibrant color, or that subtle kick of freshness that makes this drink so special.
- Fresh squeezed orange juice (1.5 cups): The juicy, citrusy base that delivers refreshing vitamin C and a naturally sweet flavor.
- Organic almond milk (0.5 cups): Adds a smooth, nutty creaminess without overpowering the brightness of the orange.
- Frozen bananas (2 medium): Essential for that luscious, velvety texture and natural sweetness—freeze them to get the perfect thick shake feel.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 tsp): Brings a subtle warmth that balances the tangy and spicy notes beautifully.
- Fresh turmeric (1 tbsp) or ground (1 tsp): The golden spice that gives the drink anti-inflammatory power and a lovely earthy undertone.
- Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp): Adds a sharp, tangy brightness that elevates all the flavors.
- Vegan sugar (1 tbsp): Or agave nectar for a touch of sweetness, customizable to your taste preferences.
- Fresh ginger root (1 tbsp) or ground (1 tsp): The zesty kick that awakens your senses and complements the citrus beautifully.
- Orange rind (0.5 tsp, grated): Adds a fragrant, aromatic citrus burst that intensifies the overall orange flavor.
How to Make Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Frozen Bananas
Peeling and freezing two medium bananas ahead of time is key to getting that creamy, milkshake-like texture. If you prefer an even creamier drink, freeze just one banana and use the other fresh. The cold bananas also keep the drink chilled and refreshing without needing any ice that could dilute the flavors.
Step 2: Combine All Ingredients
Grab a high-speed blender and toss in 1.5 cups of fresh squeezed orange juice, half a cup of organic almond milk, your frozen bananas, vanilla extract, turmeric, lemon juice, vegan sugar, fresh ginger, and grated orange rind. Each ingredient works in harmony to build a vibrant, healthful drink.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth and Creamy
Blend everything for one to two minutes until the bananas are fully creamy and all ingredients are well incorporated. You want a thick, velvety consistency that glides down easily but feels rich and satisfying.
Step 4: Pour and Garnish
Pour the luscious smoothie into two glasses. For an extra touch of elegance and a peek at the fresh ginger’s zing, garnish with a small piece of peeled ginger root. Serve immediately to enjoy the freshest flavors and the perfect chilled temperature.
How to Serve Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little something extra on top makes your Orange Julius not just delicious but also visually inviting. Try a thin slice of fresh ginger or a sprinkle of turmeric powder on the surface for a beautiful and aromatic finish. A small twist of orange rind on the rim of your glass elevates the citrusy vibe beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius Recipe pairs wonderfully with light breakfasts or snacks. Consider serving it alongside crunchy granola, fresh fruit salad, or your favorite vegan muffins. It also makes a fantastic palate cleanser after a flavorful meal, thanks to its bright and refreshing qualities.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering your Orange Julius with a bit of chia pudding or vegan yogurt in a clear glass to create an eye-catching parfait. Another idea is serving it in chilled mason jars with colorful reusable straws for an Instagram-worthy presentation that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, keep them sealed tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 24 hours to maintain the freshest flavor and creaminess. Give it a quick stir or shake before drinking to recombine any settling ingredients.
Freezing
You can freeze your Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius Recipe in portioned containers or ice cube trays. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator or blend the frozen cubes with a splash of almond milk for an instant creamy smoothie.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed cold, so reheating is not recommended. However, if you prefer a warm version, gently heat it on the stove but avoid boiling, which can alter the bright fresh flavors and reduce the vitamin content of the oranges and turmeric.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought orange juice for this recipe?
Absolutely! While fresh squeezed orange juice provides the most vibrant flavor, quality store-bought orange juice works perfectly well and makes the recipe even faster to prepare.
What can I substitute for almond milk if I have allergies?
You can swap almond milk for any other plant-based milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk, depending on your preference and dietary needs. Each will slightly change the flavor and creaminess but will still keep your drink delicious.
Is the turmeric flavor very strong in this Orange Julius?
The fresh turmeric adds a gentle earthy warmth without overpowering the drink. If you’re new to turmeric, feel free to reduce the amount until you become accustomed to the flavor.
Can I make this recipe without sweeteners?
Yes! The natural sweetness from ripe, frozen bananas and fresh orange juice often makes added sweeteners optional. Adjust to taste depending on your preference for sweetness.
How long does it take to prepare this Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius Recipe?
From start to finish, including freezing bananas, this recipe takes about 10 minutes to blend and prepare—a quick and easy way to enjoy a wholesome treat any time.
Final Thoughts
This Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius Recipe is more than just a drink; it’s a vibrant celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients that brighten your day. I genuinely hope you enjoy making and sipping this as much as I do. It’s simple, nourishing, and perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a personal moment of rejuvenation.
Print
Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Super Healthy Vegan Orange Julius is a refreshing and creamy plant-based smoothie packed with fresh citrus flavors, natural sweetness, and anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric and ginger. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a revitalizing snack, it’s blended to silky smoothness using frozen bananas and almond milk, offering a nutritious dairy-free and vegan treat in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Liquid Ingredients
- 1.5 cups fresh squeezed orange juice (store-bought works fine)
- 0.5 cups organic almond milk
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Fruits
- 2 medium frozen bananas (peeled and frozen for at least 1 hour; freeze only 1 banana for creamier texture)
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 tbsp fresh turmeric (or 1 tsp ground turmeric)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger root (peeled; or 1 tsp ground ginger)
- 0.5 tsp grated orange rind
- 1 tbsp vegan sugar (optional, can substitute with agave nectar or omit entirely)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Make sure the bananas are peeled, sliced, and frozen for at least an hour. Gather fresh squeezed orange juice, almond milk, lemon juice, vanilla extract, fresh turmeric and ginger, grated orange rind, and vegan sugar or sweetener.
- Combine in Blender: Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender, starting with the liquids followed by the frozen bananas and spices.
- Blend until Creamy: Blend on high for 1 to 2 minutes until the bananas achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, fully incorporating all flavors.
- Serve: Pour the smoothie evenly into two glasses. Garnish with a small piece of fresh ginger or grated orange rind if desired, and serve immediately for best freshness and flavor.
Notes
- For a creamier smoothie, freeze only one of the two bananas.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of vegan sugar or substituting with agave nectar.
- Fresh turmeric and ginger provide health benefits and a spicy kick, but powdered versions can be used if fresh is unavailable.
- Consume immediately for the best texture and taste as the drink can separate if left standing.