Prepare your fruit by removing the stems from fresh strawberries and chopping them, or letting frozen strawberries sit for one minute to soften.

Slice the banana into 1/2-inch thick chunks to ensure quick, even blending.

Add the milk to the blender, followed by the vanilla yogurt to prevent fruit from sticking at the bottom.

Layer the strawberries and banana chunks on top of the liquids, then sprinkle the sugar and vanilla extract over the fruit.

Add the ice cubes last to help push the ingredients toward the blades and achieve a thick, frosty texture.

Blend on high speed for 45 to 60 seconds, stopping to scrape down the sides if the blender struggles to maintain momentum.

Check the consistency by pouring a small amount into a glass; add more milk and blend briefly if too thick, or add more ice and blend again if too thin.

Pour the smoothie into two tall glasses and serve immediately to enjoy the cold, creamy texture before it separates.