Caramelized Pineapple Smoothie

This vegan fruit smoothie is made with sweet, caramelized pineapple blended with fragrant ginger and thick and creamy coconut milk. 

Caramelized Pineapple Smoothie

If you know me personally, have been reading this blog for any amount of time or follow me on Instagram, you’ve probably figured out by now that I begin every day with a smoothie.

pouring smoothie into a glass

In fact, I probably have close to 100 smoothie recipes on this website made with all sorts of ingredients including coffee, blueberrieschocolate, cherries, peanut butter and more.

Carving a Pineapple

While you’d think I would run out of ideas for changing up my morning smoothie, I find that I am constantly inspired. Whether it’s a visit to the farmers market, a trip to a new destination or a walk through an ethnic grocery store, inspiration is always around if you keep your eyes open to it.

Liz Slicing Pineapple

Most recently I was inspired by my friend Bert who works at a locally owned Jamaican restaurant. The owner, Vince, invited me into their kitchen to film a cooking video which is when I witnessed Bert sautéing pineapple before placing it in the freezer to turn into bite-sized frozen pineapple pops.

Liz Roasting Pineapple

After just one bite I knew I had to go home and turn that caramelized pineapple into a smoothie. Roasting the pineapple produces the same caramelized result without having to stand around and monitor a hot pan but of course you can always sauté it if you prefer.

Pineapple Smoothie Recipe

As the pineapple roasts, the natural sugars caramelize and begin to ooze into candy. I’m not kidding – just when you thought pineapple couldn’t get any more delicious it turns into caramel.

Roasted Pineapple Smoothie Recipe

To add creaminess and a velvety texture I blend the caramelized pineapple with full fat, Thai style coconut milk. Since Vince doesn’t like ice in his smoothies I decided to use a frozen banana which adds thickness without needing ice.

Pineapple Smoothie Recipe

Right before serving I sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes and chia seeds for crunch and texture.

Liz Drinking Smoothie

You won’t believe how insanely delicious this smoothie tastes. There’s only one thing left for you to do: try it for yourself and report back! Be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make it at home so I can see!

Caramelized Pineapple Smoothie

Your straw is waiting.

Roasted Pineapple Smoothie Recipe

Caramelized Pineapple Smoothie

5 stars average
This vegan fruit smoothie is made with sweet, caramelized pineapple blended with fragrant ginger and thick and creamy coconut milk. 
PREP: 5 minutes
COOK: 20 minutes
TOTAL: 25 minutes
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Servings: 4

Ingredients
 

  • 4 cups pineapple (peeled and sliced in strips)
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
  • 1 banana (frozen, cut in chunks)
  • 14 ounces full-fat coconut milk (Thai style)
  • 4 inches ginger root (peeled, sliced)
  • ¼ cup flax seed meal
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 cups spinach (optional)

Optional Garnishes

Instructions
 

  • Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees and spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
  • In a large bowl, toss together pineapple strips with oil and cayenne. Spread pineapple out in a single layer on baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, or until golden brown and caramelized. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. 
  • Place caramelized pineapple, frozen banana, coconut milk, ginger, flax seed meal, nutmeg and spinach (if using) in a high speed blender and puree until smooth. You can add ice to make a thicker smoothie if you wish.
  • Divide mixture between four glasses and garnish with chia seeds and toasted coconut flakes if you wish. 

Notes

Time Saving Tip: Roasted pineapple pieces can be prepped ahead and stashed in freezer in air-tight container for up to three months. 
 
Calorie Saving Tip: Use half a can of coconut milk and add 1 cup water. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1glassCalories: 401kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 5gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 30mgPotassium: 697mgFiber: 6gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 1625IUVitamin C: 87mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 4.8mg

Need some new smoothie ideas? Check out my Pinterest board!

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