📖 Instructions

1. Gather your ingredients. Make sure your oranges are ripe and juicy for the best flavor. If using frozen fruit, allow it to soften slightly at room temperature before blending.
2. If using fresh oranges, juice them. A hand juicer can work well or you can simply cut the oranges in half and squeeze out the juice manually. Set aside.
3. If you're using the zest, remove a small amount of zest using a zester or fine grater. Be careful not to get any of the white pith, as it can make the zest bitter. Place the orange zest in a small bowl.
4. In your blender, combine the orange juice (or concentrate), milk (or yogurt), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Add in the sugar (or honey or maple syrup) to taste depending on the sweetness of your oranges.
5. Add the frozen orange segments to the blender. Don't overfill the blender, leaving enough space to blend thoroughly.
6. Start blending on a low speed, gradually increasing to high. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the blender as needed.
7. Once your smoothie is perfectly blended, pour it into a glass. Give it a taste test to see if any additional sweetness or vanilla is desired.
8. Garnish with a sprinkle of orange zest, if using. A thin orange slice or a few fresh mint leaves also work well as garnishes.
9. Enjoy your refreshing Orange Creamsicle Smoothie immediately!