The NutriBullet is a popular high-powered blender that pulverizes fruits, vegetables, and seeds into smooth and nutritious drinks. Unlike regular blenders, the NutriBullet extracts nutrients and breaks down tough ingredients like kale, nuts, and frozen fruit into a smooth consistency. But a common question many have is – can the NutriBullet actually blend frozen fruit? In this comprehensive 5000 word guide, we’ll examine if and how well the NutriBullet can blend frozen fruit based on its blade technology, wattage power, and real-world user testing. We’ll also provide tips and tricks for getting the best results when making smoothies with frozen ingredients in a NutriBullet.
NutriBullet Blending Capabilities
The NutriBullet is designed specifically for making nutrient extracted beverages by pulverizing ingredients via cyclonic action into a smooth texture. Here are some key features that allow it to blend frozen fruit:
Strong Motor Base
The motor base contains a powerful 600-watt motor in a compact size. This gives it a high torque to RPM ratio that spins the blades fast enough to break down tough frozen fruit. Models like the Pro 900 have up to 2.3 horsepower, providing even more blending power.
High-Speed Cyclonic Blades
The NutriBullet uses strong stainless steel blades that are designed in a cyclonic pattern to pull ingredients down into the path of the blades. The high RPM the blades spin at allows them to create enough friction to pulverize frozen ingredients like fruit.
Small Capacity Cups
The blending vessels have a small capacity of usually 24-32 ounces. The smaller vessel allows for proper mixing and leverage for the blades to blend thick frozen ingredients versus a large regular blender pitcher.
High-Performance Low-Profile Pitchers (select models)
Some models like the NutriBullet Pro with the pitcher has a low-profile square shape and large blades to pull down and puree frozen fruits and veggies in larger batches.
So in summary, the NutriBullet is engineered with a powerful motor, specialized blades, and right-sized containers to allow it to blend frozen ingredients like fruit into smoothies and purees.
NutriBullet Power and Speed
Two key factors that determine how well a blender can process frozen ingredients are its power and speed:
Wattage Power
NutriBullet blenders range from 600 to 1700 Watts of power. The higher the Watts, the more blending power. 600 Watts is sufficient for most blending tasks, while 900+ Watts provides extra power to puree thick frozen fruit easily.
Blade Speed
NutriBullet blades can spin between 20,000 to 30,000 RPMs. The faster the blade speed, the smoother the consistency when blending frozen ingredients. Higher RPM blenders create more friction and mingling to break down ice crystals and fiberous fruit.
Most NutriBullets have enough power and speed to blend moderate amounts of frozen fruit into smoothies and purees without issue. The higher-end models allow you to blend more cups of frozen fruit in a batch into very smooth textures.
NutriBullet User Reviews on Blending Frozen Fruit
Looking at user reviews and tests is helpful to get a real-world sense of how well the NutriBullet can blend up frozen fruit. Here are some key findings:
Smooth Single Servings
Many users highlight that the NutriBullet does an excellent job blending up single serving amounts of frozen fruit into a smoothie consistency. The cyclonic action pulverizes frozen berries, mangos, bananas and more into a drinkable texture.
Can Handle Some Ice and Frozenness
Reviewers note the NutriBullet can handle and pulverize a few ice cubes plus moderate amounts of frozen fruits/veggies without issue. Too much can strain the motor. Allowing ingredients to soften up some first helps.
May Struggle With All Frozen
Users warn that trying to blend a batch made up of only frozen ingredients can easily stall or burn out the motor, especially for the lower wattage models. Allowing some fresh fruit helps compensate for all frozen.
Does Better with Some Liquid
Adding some liquid like milk, juice, yogurt, nut milk or water helps frozen ingredients blend more smoothly. The liquid provides needed consistency for the cyclonic blades to process solid frozen fruit.
Caution With Fibrous Frozen Produce
Tough frozen produce like pineapple, mango, broccoli, kale may not blend up as smoothly compared to softer berries and bananas. Partially thawing them first improves results.
Overall, user experiences reflect that the NutriBullet can successfully blend frozen fruit in normal use cases, with some caveats around all frozen loads and certain produce textures.
Tips for Blending Frozen Fruit in the NutriBullet
Based on NutriBullet blender capabilities and real-world user reviews, here are some tips for getting the best results when making frozen fruit smoothies:
Use Ripe, Soft Fruit
Frozen ripe bananas, mangos, berries, peach, pineapple and other softer fruits blend up easier than unripe, fibrous options. Avoid freezer burned fruit as well.
Partially Thaw Fruit First
Allowing frozen fruit to soften on the counter for 10-20 minutes cuts down on strain for the motor and blades.
Cut Fruit into Smaller Pieces
Cutting up frozen bananas, mangos, pineapple and other fruit into smaller pieces before freezing allows for easier blending.
Add Some Fresh Fruit
Adding a portion of fresh ripe banana, berries, or other fruits compensates for all frozen ingredients to improve blendability.
Add Liquid to the Mix
Use a liquid base like juice, plant milk, yogurt or water to get a smooth frozen fruit puree texture.
Pulse and Shake While Blending
Periodically pulse and stop the NutriBullet to shake up contents and dislodge frozen chunks during blending.
Let Motor Rest if Straining
If the motor is laboring, stop blending periodically to let it rest and avoid overheating or damage.
Use High Power NutriBullet Models
Choose a model with 900W or higher power if blending large amounts of frozen produce on a regular basis.
Make Smaller Batches
Fill the container only half to 2/3rds full with ingredients to allow for proper blending room.
By following these tips, the NutriBullet can easily create thick, creamy fruit smoothies from frozen ingredients.
Nutribullet Frozen Fruit Recipes
Here are some tasty and nutritious frozen fruit smoothie recipes that are tested and recommended for the NutriBullet:
Mixed Berry Protein Smoothie
– 1 Banana
– 1 Cup Mixed Frozen Berries
– 1 Cup Unsweetened Almond Milk
– 2 Tbsp Greek Yogurt
– 2 Tbsp Protein Powder
– 1 Tbsp Chia Seeds
– 1 Tbsp Peanut Butter
– Blend all ingredients together in a NutriBullet until smooth.
Mango Pineapple Smoothie
– 1 Cup Frozen Mango Chunks
– 1/2 Cup Frozen Pineapple
– 1/2 Cup Orange Juice
– 1/3 Cup Coconut Milk
– 1 Tbsp Honey
– Dash Cinnamon
– Blend all ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
Green Detox Smoothie
– 1 Frozen Banana
– 1 Cup Baby Spinach
– 1/2 Cup Frozen Pineapple
– 1/4 Avocado
– 1 Tbsp Fresh Ginger
– 1 Cup Coconut Water
– Blend all ingredients in a NutriBullet until fully pureed.
PB & Banana Smoothie
– 2 Frozen Bananas
– 2 Tbsp Peanut Butter
– 1 1/2 Cups Almond Milk
– 1 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
– 1 Tbsp Honey
– Add all ingredients into NutriBullet cup. Blend until smooth consistency.
Acai Berry Smoothie Bowl
– 1 Pack Sambazon Organic Acai Smoothie Pack
– 1 Frozen Banana
– 1/2 Cup Frozen Strawberries
– 1/2 Cup Frozen Blueberries
– 1/2 Cup Coconut Milk
– Toppings: Granola, banana slices, blueberries
Blend smoothie ingredients in NutriBullet until thick and creamy texture. Pour into a bowl and add desired toppings.
Does a NutriBullet or Magic Bullet Blend Frozen Fruit Better?
The NutriBullet and Magic Bullet are both personal blenders made by the same company. However, there are some key differences:
Motor Power
– NutriBullet: 600-1700W
– Magic Bullet: 250W
Blade Design
– NutriBullet: Cyclonic with sharp blades
– Magic Bullet: Cross blade
Capacity
– NutriBullet: 24-32oz blending cup
– Magic Bullet: Shorter 18oz cup
Performance
– NutriBullet better blends frozen produce
– Magic Bullet better for chopping, mixing, light blending
The more powerful NutriBullet with cyclonic blades and larger capacity is better equipped to handle frozen fruits and veggies overall. The lower powered Magic Bullet works but is best for lighter blending tasks.
NutriBullet vs Vitamix Blending Frozen Fruit
Vitamix is another high-performance blender that competes with the NutriBullet for making frozen smoothies. Here’s how they compare:
Motor Power
– NutriBullet: 600-1700W
– Vitamix: 1400-1500W
Blade Design
– NutriBullet: Cyclonic
– Vitamix: Flat
Capacity
– NutriBullet: 24-32oz Small cups
– Vitamix: 64oz pitcher
Frozen Blending Ability
– NutriBullet: Good for personal batches
– Vitamix: Excellent for large batches
While the NutriBullet holds its own for blending frozen fruit in single servings, the more powerful Vitamix is better equipped to blend multiple servings of rock-hard frozen ingredients.
NutriBullet vs Ninja Blending Frozen Produce
Ninja is another popular blender brand known for its frozen blending capabilities. Here is how it matches up with the NutriBullet:
Motor Power
– NutriBullet: 600-1700W
– Ninja: 1000-1500W
Blade Types
– NutriBullet: Cyclonic blades
– Ninja: Stacked blade assembly
Pitcher Size
– NutriBullet: 24-32oz cups
– Ninja: 72oz pitcher
Frozen Blending
– NutriBullet: Good for personal batches
– Ninja: Excellent for larger batches
While the NutriBullet can blend frozen ingredients in smaller amounts, the more powerful Ninja with its specialized blades and larger pitchers is better equipped for large quantities of frozen produce.
NutriBullet Frozen Fruit Smoothie FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making smoothies with frozen fruit in the NutriBullet:
How much frozen fruit can I blend in a NutriBullet?
1 to 2 cups of frozen fruit is a safe amount for most NutriBullet models so as not to overburden the motor. Add some fresh fruit and liquid to complement the frozen.
Should frozen fruit be partially thawed before blending?
Yes, allowing frozen fruit to partially thaw for 10-20 minutes helps it blend easier. The ice crystals will soften up to allow the NutriBullet blades process it more smoothly.
Can I just add water to blend frozen fruit in a NutriBullet?
For best consistency, a liquid like juice, milk, yogurt or nut milk is recommended over just water. The extra viscosity helps bind the drink. But water can work in a pinch.
How do I fix a NutriBullet frozen fruit smoothie that is still chunky?
Try adding more fresh fruit and liquid to the mixture. You can also pulse, stir and shake the NutriBullet cup intermittently to help dislodge chunks. Letting it blend a minute or two longer may help as well.
What are some good frozen fruits to use in a NutriBullet?
Bananas, berries, mango, pineapple, peaches and cherries are all good options. Avoid tougher, fibrous choices like broccoli, kale or oranges. Stick to ripe, soft frozen fruits.
Conclusion
In summary, while the NutriBullet may not blend pounds of rock-hard frozen produce as well as a Vitamix or Ninja, it certainly can blend moderate amounts of frozen fruit into smoothies quite effectively. Focus on using ripe, soft frozen fruits. Partially thaw them first and add some fresh fruit and liquid to complement the frozen. With the proper techniques, you can easily make delicious frozen fruit smoothies and purees in a NutriBullet.
