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Pear Smoothie Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Pear Smoothie Recipe

I made this pear smoothie on a morning when I had nothing in the fridge except a ripe pear and half a banana, and it turned out to be one of the best accidents in my kitchen. The pear gives it this soft, almost dessert-like sweetness that milk and banana alone never quite reach. I blend it up whenever I need something quick that still feels like a treat
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small ripe pear – this is the star of the smoothie so pick one that gives slightly when pressed
  • 1/2 frozen banana – adds natural sweetness and a thick creamy texture
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder or collagen peptides – boosts protein and keeps you full longer
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon – warms up the flavor and pairs beautifully with pear
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom optional – adds a subtle, slightly floral depth
  • 1/2 cup milk of choice – almond dairy, or oat milk all work well here
  • 1/2 cup ice – helps chill the smoothie and thickens it up
  • 1/8 teaspoon xanthan gum optional – a pinch is enough to make the texture extra thick

Method
 

  1. Wash the pear well and slice it into quarters, removing the core and seeds. I usually leave the skin on since it blends smooth and adds extra fiber. If your pear is very firm, let it ripen on the counter for a day or two first for the best flavor.
  2. Place the pear, frozen banana, protein powder, cinnamon, and cardamom into your blender. Pour in the milk next so the blades have enough liquid to move everything around freely. This order helps the blender work through the fruit without straining the motor.
  3. Add the ice and blend on high for about 30 to 45 seconds, or until everything looks silky and thick. Stop halfway through to scrape down the sides if needed. You want no chunks of pear left, just a uniform, creamy consistency.
  4. Take a quick look at the texture before pouring. If it feels too thick to sip comfortably, splash in a little more milk and blend again briefly. If it feels too thin, toss in a few extra ice cubes and blend once more.
  5. Pour the smoothie into your favorite glass right away, since it tastes best fresh and cold. I like to give it one last stir with a straw before the first sip. Enjoy it as a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.

Notes

  • I always use a pear that is ripe but not mushy, since a rock-hard pear leaves the smoothie gritty instead of smooth.
  • I keep peeled, chopped pear pieces in the freezer so I can skip the ice and get an even thicker smoothie.
  • I add the cardamom sparingly at first, then taste and add more, since it can overpower the pear if I get heavy-handed.
  • I blend the liquid and soft ingredients first before adding ice, which keeps my blender from struggling.
  • I taste before pouring, since pears vary in sweetness and I sometimes need a touch of honey to balance things out.