This cherry banana smoothie with vanilla yogurt is rich, creamy, and beautifully berry-red, with a sweet-tart cherry flavor and a soft banana finish. A tiny spoonful of cocoa gives it a dessert-like twist without making it heavy, so it works just as well for a quick breakfast as it does for an easy afternoon snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen pitted cherries
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 3/4 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk, dairy or non-dairy
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
- 1/2 cup ice, optional for a thicker smoothie
How To Make It
Add the milk to the blender first. This helps the blades move smoothly and keeps the frozen cherries from sticking at the bottom.
Add the frozen cherries, banana, vanilla Greek yogurt, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract if using. Blend on high until the smoothie looks silky and the cherry skins are fully blended in, about 30 to 60 seconds depending on your blender.
Check the texture before pouring. If the smoothie is too thick, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk and blend again. If you want it thicker and frostier, add the ice and blend until smooth.
Pour into a chilled glass and serve right away while it is cold, creamy, and bright.
Tips
Use frozen cherries for the best thick smoothie texture. If you only have fresh cherries, pit them first and add extra ice to help chill and thicken the drink.
Choose a very ripe banana for natural sweetness and a smoother blend. If your banana is still firm, the smoothie will taste more tart, so you may want to add a small drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Vanilla Greek yogurt makes this smoothie extra creamy and adds a sweet vanilla flavor. Regular vanilla yogurt also works, but the smoothie may be a little thinner.
Keep the cocoa light. One teaspoon adds a gentle chocolate note that pairs beautifully with cherry and banana without overpowering the fruit.
For a smoothie bowl, reduce the milk to 1/4 cup, blend until thick, and top with sliced banana, chopped cherries, granola, or mini chocolate chips.
Blend it up and enjoy every cherry-chocolate sip!