Blueberry Cinnamon Roll
Blueberries with vanilla, cinnamon, cream cheese, and maple syrup for a dessert-inspired treat

Blueberry Cinnamon Roll
Introduction
The Blueberry Cinnamon Roll smoothie transforms the beloved breakfast pastry into a nutritious, sippable treat that satisfies sweet cravings while delivering impressive health benefits.
This indulgent smoothie combines the natural sweetness of blueberries with warm notes of cinnamon, the tanginess of cream cheese, and the rich flavor of maple syrup to create a dessert-inspired experience without the guilt.
Creamy, comforting, and perfectly spiced, this smoothie offers the nostalgic flavor of fresh-baked cinnamon rolls in a convenient, nutrient-dense format that works any time of day.
Whether you're looking for a special breakfast option, a satisfying snack, or a healthier alternative to dessert, the Blueberry Cinnamon Roll smoothie delivers bakery-inspired decadence while supporting your wellness goals.
Health Highlights
- Rich in antioxidants from blueberries that support brain health and combat oxidative stress
- Contains anti-inflammatory compounds from cinnamon that may help regulate blood sugar
- Provides calcium and protein from cream cheese for bone and muscle health
- Offers natural energy from maple syrup without refined sugar crashes
- Delivers dietary fiber that supports digestive health and promotes satiety
Ingredients
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnish
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon rolled oats
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup ice cubes (omit if using frozen blueberries)
Optional: 1 tablespoon crushed graham crackers for "crust" element
Health
Benefits by Ingredient
Blueberries: Exceptional source of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins that support brain function and heart health. High in vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. May help reduce inflammation and improve memory.
Cream cheese: Provides calcium for bone health, protein for muscle maintenance, and vitamin A for eye and immune health. The fat content helps with absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Greek yogurt: Excellent source of high-quality protein and probiotics that support gut health. Contains calcium, B vitamins, and potassium for muscle function and recovery.
Almond milk: Low in calories while providing vitamin E, an antioxidant that supports skin health. Often fortified with calcium and vitamin D for bone health.
Vanilla extract: Contains small amounts of antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory properties. Adds flavor depth without added sugar.
Cinnamon: Powerful anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity. Rich in antioxidants and may support heart health.
Maple syrup: Contains minerals including zinc, manganese, and calcium. Offers antioxidants and a lower glycemic impact than refined sugar.
Rolled oats: Provides soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which may help lower cholesterol and improve gut health. Adds satisfying texture and sustained energy.
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 340
Protein: 12g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 6g
Fat: 14g
Key vitamins and minerals: Vitamins A, C, K, calcium, potassium, manganese
Antioxidants: Anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, cinnamaldehyde
Equipment
Needed
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Small microwave-safe bowl (if cream cheese needs softening)
Preparation Instructions
1. If using refrigerated cream cheese, soften it by leaving it at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwaving for 10-15 seconds.
2. Add almond milk to the blender first, followed by the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt.
3. Blend until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
4. Add blueberries, vanilla extract, cinnamon, maple syrup, rolled oats, and salt.
5. Add ice if using fresh blueberries (omit if using frozen).
6. Blend on low speed first, then increase to high until smooth and creamy, about 45-60 seconds.
7. If using optional graham crackers, pulse them in at the very end for just a few seconds to maintain some texture.
8. Taste and adjust sweetness with additional maple syrup if desired, or add more cinnamon for a stronger spice flavor.
Total preparation time: 10 minutes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a tall glass with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few fresh blueberries on top
- For a dessert presentation, drizzle with a small amount of maple syrup and add a dollop of Greek yogurt
- Rim the glass with crushed graham crackers for an extra "crust" element
- Serve with a cinnamon stick as both garnish and stirrer
- For a breakfast version, top with a small handful of granola for added crunch
Storage Information
- Best consumed immediately after preparation for optimal flavor and texture
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours
- If storing, the smoothie will thicken; thin with a small amount of milk before consuming
- Stir or shake well before drinking if separation occurs
- Not recommended for freezing due to the cream cheese content, which can separate when thawed
Customization Options
Dairy-free version: Substitute cream cheese and Greek yogurt with dairy-free versions and use plant-based milk
Higher protein: Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder or 2 tablespoons of nut butter
Gluten-free: Ensure oats are certified gluten-free or substitute with 1 tablespoon of chia seeds
Lower sugar: Reduce maple syrup to 1 tablespoon and add 5 drops of liquid stevia
Mixed berry variation: Replace half the blueberries with strawberries or blackberries
Nutty twist: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped pecans or walnuts for a "sticky bun" flavor
When to Consume
- Perfect as a special weekend breakfast when you're craving something sweet but nutritious
- Excellent as an afternoon pick-me-up when energy levels dip
- Ideal as a healthier dessert alternative to satisfy sweet cravings
- Great post-workout option that balances protein and carbohydrates for recovery
- Wonderful as a bedtime snack, as the carbohydrates and protein support overnight muscle repair
Potential
Health Benefits
Brain health support: The anthocyanins in blueberries have been linked to improved cognitive function, including better memory and delayed brain aging. Regular consumption may help protect against oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the brain.
Blood sugar regulation: Cinnamon contains compounds that may mimic insulin and increase insulin sensitivity, potentially helping to stabilize blood sugar levels. The fiber and protein in this smoothie also help slow the absorption of sugars.
Digestive health improvement: The probiotics in Greek yogurt support a healthy gut microbiome, while the fiber from blueberries and oats promotes regular digestion and feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
Heart health promotion: Blueberries have been shown to help reduce blood pressure and oxidative stress. The antioxidants in cinnamon may help reduce levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, potentially reducing heart disease risk.
Anti-inflammatory action: Both blueberries and cinnamon contain powerful anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce chronic inflammation, which is associated with many chronic diseases.
Immune system support: The vitamin C in blueberries, along with other antioxidants and the probiotics in Greek yogurt, help strengthen immune function and protect against infections.
Precautions
- Those watching their calorie or fat intake may want to use light cream cheese and reduce the amount
- Individuals with dairy sensitivities should opt for the dairy-free substitutions mentioned in customization options
- Those with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar response to maple syrup and consider the lower sugar option
- People taking blood-thinning medications should consult their healthcare provider about regular cinnamon consumption
- Those with specific berry allergies should substitute accordingly
Personal Tips
- For the creamiest texture, make sure the cream cheese is fully softened before blending
- Wild blueberries (often available frozen) contain even more antioxidants than cultivated varieties
- Freshly ground cinnamon has a more potent flavor than pre-ground; consider investing in whole cinnamon sticks and a spice grinder
- Lightly toasting the oats before adding them enhances their flavor and adds a subtle nuttiness
- For an extra-cold smoothie without dilution, freeze Greek yogurt in an ice cube tray and use instead of regular ice cubes
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring Version: Add 1/4 cup fresh strawberries as they come into season and a few leaves of fresh mint for brightness. Consider using honey instead of maple syrup for a lighter spring flavor profile.
Summer Version: Use fresh, in-season blueberries at their peak sweetness. Add 1/4 teaspoon of lemon zest for brightness and consider adding 1/4 cup of peaches for a summer fruit twist.
Fall Version: Add 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree, increase cinnamon to 1 1/2 teaspoons, and add 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg for a fall-spiced variation. Consider a tablespoon of chopped pecans for seasonal crunch.
Winter Version: Add warming spices by including 1/8 teaspoon each of nutmeg and cardamom. Incorporate 1 tablespoon of almond butter for added richness and warming properties. Serve slightly warmer (room temperature berries instead of frozen).
Health-Specific Variations
Heart Health: Use low-fat cream cheese, add 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed for omega-3 fatty acids, and a little extra cinnamon, which has been shown to support healthy cholesterol levels.
Cognitive Function: Add 1/4 cup of walnuts for omega-3 fatty acids and 1 teaspoon of MCT oil, both of which support brain health. Consider adding 1/2 teaspoon of maca powder for additional cognitive benefits.
Digestive Support: Add 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed, increase Greek yogurt to 3/4 cup for more probiotics, and add 1/4 teaspoon of ginger which works alongside cinnamon to support healthy digestion.
Immune Boost: Add 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric with a pinch of black pepper (to enhance absorption), 1 tablespoon of manuka honey instead of some of the maple syrup, and an extra 1/4 cup of blueberries for additional antioxidants.
Energy Enhancement: Add 1 teaspoon of maca powder, substitute half the almond milk with cold brew coffee (for a coffee cake flavor), and add 1 tablespoon of almond butter for sustained energy from healthy fats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare components of this smoothie in advance to save morning time?
A: Yes! You can create freezer packs by placing measured blueberries, sliced and softened cream cheese, and oats in small freezer bags. You can also pre-measure the dry ingredients (cinnamon and optional graham crackers) in a small container. In the morning, simply add the frozen package contents, Greek yogurt, almond milk, vanilla, and maple syrup to the blender.
Q: I don't have maple syrup. What can I substitute?
A: Honey makes an excellent substitute for maple syrup, though it will change the flavor profile slightly. You could also use agave nectar, date syrup, or even a mashed ripe banana for natural sweetness. If you're watching sugar intake, a teaspoon of monk fruit sweetener or a few drops of stevia combined with a tablespoon of maple syrup can reduce sugar while maintaining flavor.
Q: Can I use frozen cream cheese in this recipe?
A: Freezing cream cheese changes its texture significantly, making it grainy when thawed. For this recipe, it's best to use fresh cream cheese that's been softened. If you only have frozen cream cheese, thaw it completely, then whip it with a fork before adding to help restore some of its creaminess. You may need to add a bit more to compensate for the texture change.
Q: How can I make this smoothie more filling as a meal replacement?
A: To make this smoothie more substantial, increase the protein and healthy fat content. Add 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder, increase the oats to 1/4 cup, and add 1 tablespoon of nut butter (almond or cashew works well with the flavor profile). You could also add 1/4 of an avocado for healthy fats that will keep you fuller longer without changing the flavor significantly.
Q: Why do my blueberries sometimes turn the smoothie an unappetizing gray-purple color instead of vibrant blue?
A: This color change typically happens when blueberries interact with alkaline ingredients or when oxidation occurs. To maintain a vibrant color: 1) Add a splash of lemon juice which helps preserve the anthocyanins that give blueberries their color, 2) Blend quickly and serve immediately, 3) Use frozen blueberries which tend to maintain their color better, and 4) Blend the blueberries separately with a bit of the liquid first, then add cream cheese and other ingredients.
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