Blueberry Almond Smoothie

This blueberry almond smoothie bowl is designed for IDDSI Level 3, where texture and flow matter as much as flavor. Fully liquidized and slow moving, it offers a spoonable texture that’s easier to control in the mouth while still feeling like a familiar breakfast or snack.

Blueberries do more than add sweetness and color. Their deep blue hue comes from anthocyanins, naturally occurring compounds associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. For some caregivers, the presence of blueberry skins or tiny seeds can feel intimidating, and these fruits are often removed from menus entirely. When fully blended and strained, blueberries can remain on the table without compromising safety, allowing people to keep both the nutrition and the visual appeal they offer.

Almond flavor is handled with the same care. Rather than relying on nuts or nut butters that introduce particles, almond extract provides aroma and warmth without altering texture. Small swaps preserve the sensory experience while keeping the consistency predictable and safe.

Achieving consistent textures

Unlike traditional smoothies built around frozen fruit, thick bases, or toppings, this version is intentionally fluid. The goal isn’t firmness or structure, but cohesion. It should briefly hold its shape on the spoon, then pour slowly when tilted, supporting easier swallowing without feeling thin or fragile. Frozen berries will release thin liquids as they melt, changing into a challenging mix of different liquid consistencies, that flow at different speeds. This could make it harder to manage and therefore it is recommended to start with fresh berries.

Color also matters more than people realize. A deep blueberry color signals richness and sweetness before the first bite, which can increase appetite and confidence. That visual cue is important for people who have had repeated difficult eating experiences.

Amy Listermann, MS, CCC-SLP

Blueberry Almond Smoothie Recipe

A smooth, spoonable blueberry smoothie bowl with gentle almond flavor. Designed to meet IDDSI Level 3 (Liquidized / Moderately Thick) guidelines: cohesive, slow-flowing, and no chewing required.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Course: Beverages, Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: Comfort, Gluten Free

Calories: 260

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ¾ cup blueberries fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen
• ½ cup milk or fortified almond milk
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or silken tofu
• ½ tsp almond extract not almond pieces
• 1 –2 tsp maple syrup or honey to taste
• Pinch salt
• Thickener only if needed (IDDSI-approved)

Equipment

• High-power blender
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Spoon/ 10mL syringe plunger

Method

 

1. Add all ingredients to a high-power blender. Blend 45–60 seconds until completely smooth.
2. Let sit for 1–2 minutes, then assess thickness. Adjust as needed: Too thick → add milk 1 tbsp at a time. Too thin → add a small amount of thickener or more yogurt. Re-blend briefly and recheck texture.

SLP Notes

Testing Methods: drips freely through fork prongs, doesn’t leave a pattern when surface is pressed with a fork, pours from a tilted spoon without sticking, 8+ml left in 10mL syringe after 10 seconds (syringe flow testing).

Adjusting Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add small amounts of liquid, one tsp at a time. If too thin, blend further with more solids or a thickening agent like xantham gum, being sure to retest at time of serving. 

Temperature Caution: The viscosity of purees changes with temperature. Always test after reheating or chilling, as thinner or thicker consistencies may alter the IDDSI level.

Storage & Reheating: Refrigerate promptly and reheat gently, stirring between intervals. Always retest consistency before serving.

This is a useful option for people who want something that feels substantial without requiring chewing. It can be served as a light meal, a high energy snack, or a transition food when moving between thinner liquids and purées. As with all Level 3 foods, blending time and temperature matter. Recheck the texture before serving. Small adjustments make a big difference, and consistency is key for safety and confidence at the table.

This recipe is also easy to scale. Portions can be increased for higher calorie needs, or adjusted downward for smaller appetites, without changing the underlying texture. That flexibility makes it useful across different stages of recovery or progression.

For caregivers, smoothies like this can simplify mealtimes. They’re quick to prepare, consistent when made correctly, and easy to serve alongside other versions of the same meal. One base recipe can support multiple textures at the same table.

As with all Level 3 foods, consistency is key. Even small changes in ingredients, temperature, or blending time can affect flow. Taking a moment to recheck texture before serving helps keep eating safer and more predictable.

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