My aunt Lily’s twist on orange juice is a really simple and really delicious addition to any breakfast! Made with just four simple ingredients, this blended frozen orange juice has the slightest hint of vanilla for a great variation. And as a bonus, it’s quick and easy to make!

Table of Contents
- Vanilla Orange Juice
- An easy breakfast drink
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- How To Make Blended Orange Juice
- What’s in Aunt Lily’s Orange Juice?
- Can you make this ahead of time?
- Can you use fresh orange juice instead of frozen concentrate?
- More Drink Recipes
- Aunt Lily’s Orange Juice
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Nutrition Information
Vanilla Orange Juice
My dad’s Aunt Lily used to make this, and I remember it well. These are the kinds of recipes that make you feel at home!
The beauty of something like this is its simplicity. Vanilla-infused frozen orange juice doesn’t sound too crazy, and it isn’t. It’s very simple and it’s surprisingly good! It may even remind you of the famous Orange Julius drinks.
It’s the perfect accompaniment to Skillet Breakfast Casserole, One-Pan BLT Skillet Frittata, or my Breakfast Muffins.
An easy breakfast drink
We love serving this as part of a family breakfast or brunch. It takes minutes to make a big batch and the added vanilla really elevates it. It makes a great non-alcoholic substitute for a brunch mimosa and makes a great punch for a baby shower.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: This recipe is about as simple as it gets, but it amps up a breakfast standard.
- A tradition in the making: Once you introduce this vanilla OJ smoothie to your family, they’ll ask for it over and over.
- It’s not just for breakfast: This is such a refreshing drink. On a hot summer day? You can’t beat Aunt Lily’s Orange Juice!
How To Make Blended Orange Juice
Simply blend all of the ingredients together and serve frozen. So easy!

What’s in Aunt Lily’s Orange Juice?
- Frozen orange juice concentrate: Use your favorite brand.
- Water and ice: Use these to dilute the juice. Ice helps keep it frozen.
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla adds a wonderful flavor – don’t skip it!
- Milk: Just a splash of milk helps to balance out the acidity of the orange juice.
Can you make this ahead of time?
This drink is best served while it is still frozen, but you can use it within 24 hours. If you are not planning to drink it right away, be sure to cover the juice with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge.
Can you use fresh orange juice instead of frozen concentrate?
The frozen concentrate is what contributes to the zestiness of this drink. Fresh OJ won’t be quite as strong, but you can use it if you prefer.
The concentrate and ice work together to contribute to the thick smoothie-like consistency–if you use fresh juice, skip the extra added water.


More Drink Recipes
- How to Make Homemade Sweet Tea
- French Vanilla Iced Coffee with Homemade Vanilla Syrup
- Thai Iced Coffee
- Homemade Malted Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe
If you make this recipe be sure to upload a photo in the comment section below or leave a rating. Enjoy!