Smoothies have become a staple in many UK households thanks to their versatility, convenience, and ability to pack a punch of nutrients in one glass. While fresh fruit is often the star of the show, dried fruit—particularly dried apple—can add a unique twist. Not only does it provide natural sweetness, but it also delivers concentrated nutrients and a depth of flavour that fresh apples sometimes lack.
If you’re looking for inspiration, this guide will walk you through delicious smoothie recipes using dried apple, along with tips for preparation, serving, and making the most of this underrated ingredient.
Why Use Dried Apple in Smoothies?
Dried apples are often overlooked, yet they’re an excellent addition to smoothies. Here’s why:
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Convenience: Dried apples are easy to store, lightweight, and available year-round in the UK.
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Nutrient-Dense: They provide dietary fibre, antioxidants, and essential minerals like potassium and iron in a concentrated form.
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Natural Sweetness: Their subtle, caramel-like sweetness means you often don’t need added sugar.
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Long Shelf Life: Unlike fresh apples, dried varieties last for months when stored correctly.
By blending them into smoothies, you enjoy all these benefits without compromising on taste or texture.
Preparing Dried Apples for Smoothies
Before adding dried apples to your blender, it’s a good idea to soften them first. This step ensures a smoother texture and prevents strain on your blender blades. To prepare:
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Soak in Warm Water: Place the dried apple slices in warm water for 10–15 minutes.
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Drain and Pat Dry: Remove excess water before blending.
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Optional Flavour Boost: Soak them in warm apple juice or herbal tea for a richer taste.
3 Delicious Smoothie Recipes with Dried Apple
Here are three carefully crafted recipes that highlight the unique qualities of dried apple. Each recipe makes one large serving or two smaller ones.
1. Creamy Dried Apple & Cinnamon Smoothie
This recipe captures the comforting flavour of apple pie in a glass.
Ingredients:
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½ cup softened dried apple slices
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1 frozen banana
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1 cup oat milk (or milk of choice)
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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A small handful of oats
Method:
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Add all ingredients to a blender.
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Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Sprinkle extra cinnamon on top before serving.
Why it works: The banana gives natural creaminess, while cinnamon enhances the dried apple’s natural sweetness.
2. Green Energy Apple Smoothie
A refreshing smoothie that’s packed with nutrients, perfect for mornings or post-workouts.
Ingredients:
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½ cup softened dried apple slices
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1 handful of fresh spinach
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½ avocado
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1 small pear (fresh, chopped)
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1 cup coconut water
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Juice of half a lemon
Method:
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Place all ingredients in the blender.
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Blend until silky and green.
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Serve chilled for maximum refreshment.
Why it works: The dried apple balances the earthy spinach with natural sweetness, while avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
3. Spiced Apple & Date Smoothie
This one’s a naturally sweet, filling smoothie that doubles as a light meal.
Ingredients:
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½ cup softened dried apple slices
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3 soft dates (pitted)
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1 cup almond milk
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1 tsp ground nutmeg
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1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for extra fibre)
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A few ice cubes
Method:
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Combine all ingredients in a blender.
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Blend until completely smooth.
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Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Why it works: The combination of dates and dried apple creates a rich, caramel-like sweetness, while chia seeds give staying power.
Tips for Perfect Smoothies with Dried Apple
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Balance Flavours: Dried apple is sweet, so pair it with neutral or tangy ingredients like spinach, lemon, or yoghurt.
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Use a High-Power Blender: This ensures the dried fruit blends smoothly without gritty bits.
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Experiment with Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom all complement dried apple beautifully.
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Adjust Thickness: Add more liquid for a lighter smoothie or extra frozen fruit for a thicker texture.
Serving Suggestions
Smoothies with dried apple can be enjoyed straight from the glass or elevated into smoothie bowls. Pour your blend into a bowl and top with:
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Granola for crunch
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Fresh berries for colour
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A drizzle of nut butter for protein
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Seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower for extra nutrients
This makes for a more substantial breakfast or snack.
Storing Leftover Smoothies
If you make more than you can drink in one sitting, store leftovers in a sealed glass jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake well before drinking, as natural separation may occur.
Final Thoughts
Dried apple may not be the first ingredient you think of for smoothies, but it’s a game-changer. Offering natural sweetness, nutritional benefits, and a long shelf life, it’s perfect for busy UK households looking to make healthy eating easier.
From the warming notes of the Creamy Dried Apple & Cinnamon Smoothie to the refreshing zing of the Green Energy Apple Smoothie or the rich sweetness of the Spiced Apple & Date Smoothie, there’s a recipe here for every mood and time of day.