If you’ve ever used a personal blender like a Magic Bullet or Nutribullet, you’ve likely wondered what the official name is for those handy little blender cups that twist onto the base. While they go by several common names, the technical term for these blender vessels is “blender cup” or “blender jar.”
Why Are They Called Blender Cups?
These vessels are specifically designed for use with personal blenders, which operate differently than standard upright blenders. Personal blenders are compact devices with a motorized base that blends contents inside small, individual-sized containers. This contrasts with larger blenders which require blending pitchers.
Since the personal blender cups twist directly onto the blender base, they are integrated blender components rather than separate pitchers. Hence, the term “blender cup” refers to the fact that these vessels function as cups that attach to the blender.
Other Common Names
While blender cup is the official name, these vessels are also referred to by other common terms including:
- Blender jars
- Blender vessels
- Cups
- Containers
- Canisters
- Vessels
- Nutri cups (for Nutribullet blenders)
- Bullet cups (for Magic Bullet blenders)
The term blender “cup” or “jar” is most common since these vessels screw into the blender base and function as a cup or jar for blending. But many people simply refer to them informally as cups, containers, canisters, or vessels.
Names Specific to Popular Blender Brands
Some blenders use their own branded names for these blender cups:
| Blender Brand | Branded Name for Cups |
|---|---|
| Nutribullet | Nutri cups |
| Magic Bullet | Bullet cups |
| Ninja | Ninja cups |
| Oster | MyBlend cups |
While not the official generic name, these branded terms are frequently used to refer to the cups that go with each specific blender brand.
What Are Blender Cups Made Of?
Blender cups are made from different types of durable, shatter-resistant materials including:
- Plastic – This is the most common material used. Plastic cups are affordable and lightweight while still being fairly durable for daily blending.
- Glass – Some brands offer glass blender cups, which are heavier than plastic but non-porous and can handle hot contents. However, they are more prone to breaking.
- Stainless steel – A small number of brands make stainless steel cups, which have the advantages of being shatter-proof and able to blend hot liquids. However, they are more expensive than plastic or glass.
- Tritan plastic – Made from BPA-free, dishwasher-safe co-polyester, some plastic Nutribullet cups are made from Tritan.
By far, standard BPA-free plastic is the most common material used to make single-serve blender cups due to its balance of affordability, durability, and functionality.
Typical Sizes of Blender Cups
Blender cup sizes vary between brands but typically range between:
- 14-24 oz – For individual use
- 32-64 oz – For making 2-3 servings
Smaller cups in the 14-18 oz range are designed for single serving use, often for smoothies, juices, or sauces. Larger 32-64 oz cups have the capacity to blend 2-3 portions at once.
Common Blender Cup Sizes
| Cup Size | Best Uses |
|---|---|
| 14-18 oz | Single serve smoothies, juices, dips, etc. |
| 24-32 oz | Larger single servings or smaller multi-servings |
| 40-64 oz | Making 2-3 servings at once |
The smaller cups are intended for whipping up a quick blended drink or sauce just for yourself. The larger capacities allow you to blend multiple servings together when cooking for family or guests.
Unique Features of Blender Cups
While basic blender cups just need to safely and effectively hold ingredients for blending, some come with special features including:
- Leak-proof lids – Many cups include tight sealing lids so you can take blended drinks on the go without spilling.
- Handle – Some have an ergonomic handle for easy gripping and pouring.
- Measurement markings – Cups often have liquid measurement markings printed on the side to easily track the volume.
- Spout lids – Lids with spouts make it easy to drink directly from the blender cup.
- Storage lids – Airtight lids allow you to store leftovers in the cup.
- Mixing blades – Blades are built into the cups for chopping and blending.
Thanks to features like leak-proof lids and built-in blades, blender cups allow you to blend and take drinks, sauces, and other items with you on the go.
Popular Brands of Blender Cups
Some of the top brands making blender cups include:
- Nutribullet – Offers plastic and stainless steel cups in a range of sizes to go with their personal blenders.
- Magic Bullet – Known for durable plastic bullet cups in standard and mini sizes.
- Ninja – Makes BPA-free plastic cups to match their blender models and capacities.
- Oster – Provides plastic MyBlend cups that are shatter and scratch-resistant.
- Hamilton Beach – Markets plastic and glass jars for single serve and multi-serve blending.
Third party companies also make replacement cups that are compatible with leading blender brands. This gives you even more options when selecting the right cups.
Tips for Using Blender Cups
To get the most out of your blender cups:
- Always place liquids and soft ingredients in first, then add any solid or frozen items on top. This prevents splashing.
- Don’t overfill the cup, especially when blending hot liquids that can expand. Leave at least 1-2 inches of space at the top.
- Make sure the blade assembly is securely tightened before blending to prevent leakage.
- Don’t blend for longer than the manufacturer’s recommended time, usually 1 minute or less for small cups. Extended blending can damage the motor.
- Wash cups thoroughly after each use and inspect for damage. Replace any cups with cracks.
By following best practices when using your blender cups, you’ll get great results and extend the life of your blender.
Purchasing Replacement Cups
With regular use, blender cups will eventually wear out or get damaged. Here are some tips when it’s time to buy replacement cups:
- Look for the same size and type of cup that originally came with your blender model.
- Search for your blender brand name and cup size/capacity to find compatible options.
- Look on the blender maker’s website which will have replacement parts available.
- Check third party sites like Amazon for cheaper alternatives labeled as compatible.
- Buy a multi-pack so you always have clean backup cups ready.
Investing in a quality set of replacement blender cups ensures you get the same great performance as your original cups over the long run.
Maintaining Blender Cups Properly
To maximize the life of your blender cups:
- Avoid dropping or harshly impacting the cups, as this can cause cracks and leakage.
- Don’t blend extremely hot ingredients that can warp or melt plastic cups.
- Wash cups by hand or dishwasher on low heat to prevent warping.
- Replace cups that develop cracks, cloudiness, or other signs of wear.
- Lubricate rubber gaskets as needed to maintain a tight seal.
- Ensure the blade assembly stays screwed in tightly during cleaning and storage.
With regular maintenance and care, blender cups can provide many years of reliable blending performance.
Conclusion
While commonly called blender cups, jars, containers, or vessels, the official name for those handy little mixing canisters that come with personal blenders is “blender cup.” Made of durable plastic, glass, or steel, these cups twist directly onto the blender base to allow fast, mess-free blending and on-the-go portability. As a vital part of a personal blender, choosing the right blender cups and properly maintaining them will keep your blending smooth and delicious for years to come.