Name: Berry–Oat Smoothie
Total time: PLACEHOLDER
Ingredients: ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats , toasted; 1¾ cups frozen mixed berries; ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger; ½ cup plain dairy or plant-based yogurt; 1 cup water , plus extra as needed

Why This Recipe Works

To ensure an ideal mix of tart and sweet, we call for mixed berries. But despite the berries' star quality, it was the old-fashioned rolled oats that turned out to be the cornerstone of this smoothie, providing a thicker texture plus some good fiber. Though it may seem counterintuitive to toast the oats before blending them into a drink, the toasting helped create a nuttier, more intense flavor that leaned into that cobbler flavor profile. Adding yogurt to the mix made the smoothie creamier, and enhancing the smoothie with cinnamon, ginger, and bright lemon zest really emulated the baked dessert flavor that we aspired to. This recipe is flexible, so if you have a favorite cobbler, feel free to swap in whatever frozen berry you like best. Toast the oats in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 2 minutes), then remove the skillet from the heat so the oats won't scorch.

Before You Begin

If storing overnight, thin the smoothie with additional water as needed because the oats will absorb liquid as they sit.

Instructions

In order listed, add all ingredients to blender and process on low speed until mixture is combined but still coarse in texture, about 10 seconds, scraping down sides of blender jar as needed. Gradually increase speed to high and process until completely smooth, about 1 minute. Adjust consistency with water as needed. Serve.