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If you love smoothies that taste bright and refreshing, this cranberry orange smoothie is one to add to your blend list. It combines tart cranberries, sweet citrus, and creamy frozen banana into a vibrant drink that feels both crisp and smooth. The spinach blends in seamlessly, making this an easy way to add greens without changing the flavor.
I still remember the first time I tried cranberries in a smoothie—right after Thanksgiving, staring down a bag of leftover fresh cranberries I wasn’t sure what to do with. On a whim, I tossed them in the blender with a banana, a handful of spinach, and a juicy orange… and wow. That tart-sweet combo instantly woke up my taste buds and made me feel good about what I was putting in my body. Here’s why:
- Spinach adds fiber, iron, and a gentle green boost without overpowering the flavor.
- Cranberries are antioxidant powerhouses that support immune health and reduce inflammation.
- Orange brings vitamin C, hydration, and a citrusy brightness that balances the tartness of cranberries.
- Banana offers natural sweetness, potassium, and a creamy texture that ties everything together.
Fresh cranberries vs. Frozen Cranberries
Fresh or frozen cranberries both work fine in this recipe. If you use frozen cranberries, then they will help chill your smoothie. And freezing doesn’t greatly affect the nutrient content of the fruit, though fresh will give you the most nutrients.
If you find yourself with extra cranberries after the holidays, there are plenty of delicious ways to use them up. Try my pomegranate cranberry relish for a classic, versatile staple that works well with both savory and sweet dishes. For a fresh, energizing option, blend up an Orange Cranberry Smoothie that balances tart berries with bright citrus.
NOVEMBER 9-13, 2026
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Cranberry Spinach Smoothie
Jen HansardIngredients
- 1 cup spinach
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup cranberries
- 1 orange peeled
- ½ banana frozen
Instructions
- Pour the water into a blender. Add the spinach and blend until smooth.
- Add the cranberries, orange and banana. Blend on high until smooth, 45 to 60 seconds, adding a splash more liquid if it’s too thick. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
- Cranberry Tip: Fresh or frozen cranberries both work; frozen make the smoothie colder and thicker. Cranberries are tart, so add the other half of the banana if you want it sweeter.
- Greens Swap: Baby kale, romaine or any mild leafy green can replace the spinach.
- Protein Boost: Add a serving of protein powder, such as my homemade protein powder, to make it more filling.
- Storing: Best fresh, but it keeps in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake before drinking.
One of my favorite smoothies. Full of flavor and nutrients. I often gravitate toward this one when I have a cold because it tastes so fresh, ever so slightly tart, and is filling. I added some flax seeds, pea protein, and spirulina as well.
Thank you for the review. So glad that you love this one. Yes, the extra ingredients can really uplevel it.
I’ve signed up for this yesterday. And I’ve been reading through the recipes and suggestions right now… I have received no notifications or recipes I asked to be sent to my email. So all I wanted to do was sign up for the challenge.
Someone should be emailing you with the Challenge. Thank you for reaching out.
I thought this was really good! I followed the recipe exactly and it turned out perfect. Will def make again since I have more cranberries in the fridge.
Love that you liked it so much. And it’s the perfect season for fresh cranberries.