There are a few reasons you might want to substitute something for yogurt in smoothies. Maybe you’re allergic to dairy or vegan. Or maybe you’re trying to cut back on sugar and yogurt is just too sweet for your taste.
Whatever the reason, there are plenty of substitutes for yogurt that will give you the same creamy texture and consistency without the dairy. There really are so many great options out there.
Yogurt is by no means an absolute necessity to any smoothie recipe. As you can see after you read the following substitutes for yogurt in your favorite smoothie recipe, there are plenty of other ingredients that will provide the same consistency, if not something even creamier and smoother than when you use your classic yogurt.
There are also other alternatives with plenty of health benefits so feel free to jump into this list without any hesitation or fear of losing the health element to your fantastic smoothie.
Easy and Delicious Subs for Yogurt in a Smoothie
Now let’s look at some simple and delicious swaps for yogurt in a smoothie. Chances are you already have some of these items on hand!
Non dairy yogurt
If you’re looking for an alternative to yogurt in smoothies, non dairy yogurt is always an option, however it can be somewhat expensive and not everyone likes the taste. There are far better options out there.
Almond milk
Almond milk is a great healthy choice when it comes to replacing yogurt in smoothies. It adds a protein boost to your smoothie too!
Coconut cream
If you’re looking for a super thick creamy texture to your smoothie, coconut cream is a great way to get it.
Coconut water
Coconut water is a refreshing way to add some extra electrolytes to your smoothie without adding any dairy.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds are a fantastic source of vegan protein and make a great addition to any smoothie in place of yogurt.
Coconut milk
Coconut milk makes a delicious and creamy substitute for yogurt in smoothies.
Cashew milk
Cashew milk is another excellent dairy-free substitute for yogurt in smoothies. It has a slightly sweet flavor that goes well with fruit smoothies.
Soy milk
Soy milk is a popular plant-based milk that can be used in place of yogurt in smoothies. It has a creamy texture and neutral flavor that makes it versatile for any type of smoothie.
Hemp milk
Hemp milk is another excellent plant-based substitute for yogurt in smoothies. It’s high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutrient-rich option.
Flax milk
Flax milk is a nut-free substitute for yogurt in smoothies that is high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Oat milk
Oat milk is a creamy, dairy-free substitute for yogurt that is perfect for use in smoothies. It has a slightly sweet flavor that goes well with fruit smoothies.
Rice milk
Rice milk is a light and sweet substitute for yogurt in smoothies. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a non-dairy alternative that is lower in calories.
Avocado
Avocado is a great substitute for yogurt if you’re looking for a nutrient-rich, creamy smoothie. Just add half of an avocado to your smoothie and blend until smooth.
Banana
Banana is another fruit that makes a great substitute for yogurt in smoothies. It adds sweetness and creaminess to any smoothie without the need for dairy products. Mix it with other fruits to make a fruity banana smoothie. If your recipe says to add ice cubes, you can even ditch the ice cubes for chunks of frozen ripe bananas- it’s a great way to use the ripe bananas you have stowed away in the freezer.
Mango
Mango is a delicious and creamy fruit that makes a great substitute for yogurt in smoothies. It’s high in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a nutrient-rich option to add to any of your favorite recipes.
Papaya
Papaya is another sweet and creamy fruit that makes a great substitute for yogurt in smoothies. It’s high in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutrient-rich option to add to your favorite smoothie recipe.
Pineapple
Pineapple is a sweet and juicy fruit that makes a great substitute for yogurt in smoothies. It’s high in Vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a nutrient-rich option to use in place of yogurt in your smoothie recipe. Smoothie may make it extra thick so start off small increments and add anymore as necessary to get it to your desired thickness.
Prunes
Prunes are a great substitute for yogurt if you’re looking for a smoothie with a bit of extra fiber. Just add a handful of prunes to your smoothie and blend until smooth.
Dates
Dates are another great substitute for yogurt if you’re looking for a smoothie with a bit of extra sweetness.
Figs
Figs are a great substitute for yogurt if you’re looking for a smoothie with a bit of extra sweetness and fiber. Just add a handful of figs to your smoothie and blend until smooth.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a great substitute for yogurt if you’re looking for a nutrient-rich, creamy smoothie. Using a sweet potato usually creates yummy, thick smoothies. If you’re going to use this as an alternative to yogurt, make sure you’re using cooked sweet potato that has cooled down to room temperature before adding it to the rest of your ingredients.
Pumpkin puree
Pumpkin puree is another great substitute for yogurt if you’re looking for a nutrient-rich, creamy smoothie. Just add a half cup of pumpkin puree to your smoothie and blend until smooth.
Tofu
Tofu is a great substitute for yogurt if you’re looking for a protein-rich, creamy smoothie. Just add a half cup of tofu to your smoothie and blend until smooth.
Silken tofu is also high in protein but has a thinner texture that works well when blended with other ingredients.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and brings a boost of protein to your smoothie recipes without the need for added protein powder.
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is an excellent source of calcium and can be used to thicken as well.
Nut butters
Nut butter, like peanut butter, hazelnut butter, or almond butter, will add richness to your smoothie.
Experiment with these great alternatives to find the perfect substitution for your smoothie recipe! Feel free to share with us in the comments below what you think the best substitute is for your delicious smoothie!
Buttermilk
This cultured milk is another great thing to add to your favorite smoothies. It will bring a slightly tangy flavor, but it also provides plenty of probiotics which is great for improving your gut health.
Tips and tricks for replacing yogurt and smoothies
If this is your first time replacing regular yogurt in a smoothie, it may take some trial and error to find the best yogurt substitute for your smoothie and to get it to the perfect consistency. Here are some tips to help you along with your yogurt substitutes.
First, consider the type of smoothie you are making when you choose your substitute and try to pick a complimentary flavor.
Next, add your yogurt replacement to your smoothie in small increments and blend in between. This helps you get the perfect consistency.
Finally, feel free to experiment and try a few different substitutes!
How can I thicken my smoothie without yogurt?
It’s really easy to thicken a smoothie. We like to add frozen fruit, so any of the fruit options above like pineapple, papaya, banana, etc will help thicken a smoothie. It also gives your smoothie that creamy texture. Adding a frozen fruit is a great option for making a thicker smoothie and is an easy way to sweeten up the smoothie if you have other not so sweet ingredients.
How can I thin out my sleeve?
if you find your smoothie too thick to sip through a straw, or just too thick in general, there are a few things you can add. Here are some options to add to your smoothie to thin it out some:
- Water
- Coconut water
- Juice
- Tea (green tea, chamomile, or matcha tea are common options)
With so many ways to make your delicious smoothie drinks without yogurt, there’s no reason to not make one now. We have shared plenty of non-dairy options if you’re avoiding dairy in your smoothies altogether. And, we have shared a couple of dairy containing ingredients if you’re looking for the added nutrient rich benefit of using some form of dairy in your delicious drink, but you’re out of your usual yogurt choice.