Easy Pineapple Smoothie

This Pineapple Smoothie is cold, creamy, tropical and made in just a couple minutes. It’s one of my favorite quick breakfast and snack recipes because it tastes like a mini vacation, but it’s also packed with protein, fiber and feel-good ingredients that actually keep you going.

There are some recipes I make because they’re practical, and then there are recipes I make because they instantly make my day better. This Pineapple Smoothie falls into both categories.

Ingredients For Pineapple Smoothie

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to make this smoothie thick, creamy and refreshing.

• Frozen pineapple: The star of the show. It gives the smoothie its sweet, tropical flavor and thick, frosty texture. Fresh pineapple works too, but frozen gives you the best consistency. You can also swap in mango for a slightly sweeter twist.
• Frozen banana: Adds natural sweetness and makes the smoothie extra creamy. If you don’t want to use banana, try frozen mango, peach or a little avocado instead.
• Coconut milk: This gives the smoothie that creamy, tropical, piña colada-style flavor. Canned coconut milk is richer, while carton coconut milk is a little lighter. Almond milk, oat milk or regular milk all work well, too.
• Cottage cheese: Adds protein and makes the smoothie super creamy. Greek yogurt is a great swap, or use coconut yogurt to keep it dairy-free.
• Plain protein powder: Helps make the smoothie more filling and breakfast-worthy. You can leave it out if you want, or add a little extra yogurt or cottage cheese for body.
• Unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds extra coconut flavor and makes the smoothie taste even more tropical. Totally optional, but a nice addition.
• Lime juice and zest: Optional, but they brighten up the flavor and make everything taste fresher. A splash of orange juice works nicely, too.
• Honey or maple syrup: Only if needed. Depending on how sweet your fruit is, you may not need any extra sweetener at all.

How to Make a Pineapple Smoothie

1. Add the coconut milk to the blender first so everything blends smoothly.
2. Top with the frozen pineapple, frozen banana, cottage cheese, protein powder and any extras you’re using.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy. The smoothie should look thick, pale golden and completely silky with no big chunks left.
4. If it seems too thick, add a splash more coconut milk and blend again.
5. If it’s thinner than you like, add a little more frozen pineapple or a handful of ice to thicken it up.
6. Taste and adjust as needed. Add lime for brightness or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if you want it a little sweeter.
7. Pour into a glass and serve right away while it’s cold and creamy.

How to Store Leftovers

Smoothies are always best right after blending, but leftovers can absolutely be saved.

• Pour any extra into a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Give it a really good shake or stir before drinking, since it will naturally separate as it sits.
• If you want to save it longer, freeze it in an ice cube tray or freezer-safe container. Then just re-blend with a splash of milk when you’re ready to drink it again.
• If the smoothie thickens too much in the fridge, stir in a little milk until it’s back to the consistency you like.

Pineapple Smoothie Variations

• Green Pineapple Smoothie: Add a handful of spinach. It changes the color more than the flavor.
• Pineapple Mango Smoothie: Swap part of the pineapple for frozen mango for an even sweeter tropical flavor.
• Pineapple Banana Smoothie: Lean into the classic combo by adding a little extra banana and keeping the lime out.
• Piña Colada Smoothie: Add extra shredded coconut and lime zest for more of that cocktail-inspired flavor.
• Dairy-Free Pineapple Smoothie: Use coconut yogurt instead of cottage cheese or Greek yogurt and make sure your protein powder is dairy-free.