This dairy-free Orange Julius is made with a boozy twist! Plenty of orange flavor, luxuriously creamy, and even has some protein in it, all while being soy-free and nut-free.

It’s almost Memorial Day, can you believe it? Each year, I feel like time flies by faster and faster and this year is no different. It has been quite a whirlwind and here we are, nearly half way through 2016! Now, it’s getting to be BBQ and backyard party season; pretty much my favorite (right after Fall). I’ve got the perfect adult beverage for you to enjoy at all of these shindigs: Spiked Orange Julius!

Some of you may be familiar with mall food courts and those stands that provide (provided?) frosty treats by the name of Orange Julius. These things are essentially blended up orange creamsicles! Sweet, citrusy, hints of creamy vanilla and refreshingly cold.

What better way to cool down in the coming summer months that with a drink like that? I have a boozy, and admittedly slightly more wholesome version for you. Imagine a more refreshing, slightly lighter, non-dairy version of and orange Julius, but with a lil’ surprise.😂

Under the guise of making this “healthier”, I’ve added hemp seeds to the Spiked Orange Julius for their creamy-ness when blended, as well as being rich in omega-3/6, and full of plant-based protein. I used agave nectar as a sweetener, as opposed to sugar, but you can test out making this with coconut sugar or stevia as alternatives. To go all out, I topped it off with some rice whip, and I regret nothing!

Substitutions + Tips:

• Orange juice + Zest – fresh squeezed is always great, but pretty much any store-bought juice will also work. But, you’ll need a fresh orange for the zest (don’t forget to zest BEFORE juicing), so may as well use fresh juice. 😉
• Non-dairy milk – I like one on the creamier/fuller side, so soy, pea, or certain oat milks can work here. Almond tends to be a bit watery.
• Vanilla vodka – just have regular vodka on hand? Add a teaspoon of vanilla to the mix, to replace the flavored version. If making a non-alcoholic version, just add the extract.
• Cointreau – this does double duty, as it adds some alcohol but also a wonderful citrus flavor. If omitting alcohol, add 1/2 teaspoon orange extract instead.
• Hemp seeds – if you don’t have these on hand, some raw cashews or a nice, plain protein powder will work.
• Agave nectar – maple syrup will also work, or your preferred liquid sweetener.

Two years: Cauliflower Scramble // Three years: Spicy Vodka Lemonade // Four years: Creamy Greek Summer Salad

This post has been sponsored by Silk, with all opinions being honest and my own. Collaborations with companies make it easier for me to keep the free content coming to you!