Growing up in a suburb outside of Atlanta, my free time was often spent hanging out at Perimeter Mall with my friends. Checking out black light posters and other stupid stuff at Spencer’s gifts; and on a good day, getting an Orange Julius. Making this little smoothie takes me back to that time. I can still picture it all.

I don’t really know what was in an Orange Julius. Probably some things I wouldn’t want to have now. But what I put together today is simple, yummy and perfect for a summer afternoon by the pool. I started with some toasted coconut almond milk from Califia Farms. This is my new favorite brand. I get it at Whole Foods. Check it out.

Next I peeled and chopped a beautiful, large Cara Cara orange. I zested some of the peel, too.

Everything went into the blender with some unsweetened coconut cream (from Whole Foods, also), pure vanilla extract and a little agave nectar. I generously shared some with my son, who had no idea what Orange Julius is/was or a Creamsicle for that matter. Well, now he knows that magical combination of orange, cream and vanilla. Maybe someday it will bring back special memories for him too.

Creamy Orange-Vanilla Smoothie

Makes 2 servings

1 cup coconut almond milk

1 large Cara Cara orange, peeled and chopped

1 Tbsp orange zest

2 Tbsp unsweetened coconut cream

1/2 tsp pure vanilla

1 cup ice

agave nectar

Using a microplane grater, zest orange. Add almond/coconut milk, chopped orange segments, zest, coconut cream and vanilla to a high powered blender and blend until smooth. Add ice and blend again. Taste and add agave to your liking. Have some sunny thoughts as you enjoy this on a sunny afternoon. 🙂