This Cherry Banana Almond Smoothie is creamy, sweet, and just a little nutty, with a cozy breakfast-style flavor that feels like a treat without being complicated. Frozen cherries bring bright fruitiness, banana adds natural sweetness, almond butter makes it silky, and a small spoonful of cocoa gives the whole smoothie a soft chocolate-cherry twist. It is perfect for busy mornings, after-school sipping, or an easy afternoon snack when you want something cool, filling, and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen pitted cherries
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk, plus more as needed
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, optional
- 1/2 cup ice, optional, for a thicker smoothie
How To Make It
Add the frozen cherries, banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, almond butter, cocoa powder, and optional sweetener to a blender. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and evenly combined.
If the smoothie is too thick, splash in a little more almond milk and blend again for a few seconds. If you want it frostier, add the ice and blend until thick and spoonable.
Taste before serving. Cherries and bananas can vary in sweetness, so add the honey or maple syrup only if you want a sweeter smoothie. Pour into one large glass or two smaller glasses and enjoy right away while it is cold and creamy.
For a prettier Pinterest-style finish, top with a few sliced cherries, a drizzle of almond butter, a dusting of cocoa, or a sprinkle of chopped almonds.
Tips
Use frozen cherries for the best thick texture and deep cherry flavor. If using fresh cherries, pit them first and add extra ice to help chill and thicken the smoothie.
A ripe banana works best because it blends smoothly and adds mellow sweetness. For an even creamier texture, use a frozen banana instead of a fresh one.
Plain Greek yogurt keeps the flavor balanced and adds a rich, creamy base. Vanilla Greek yogurt also works if you prefer a sweeter, dessert-like smoothie.
Start with just 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder. It should add a gentle chocolate note without overpowering the cherries and almond butter.
For a dairy-free version, swap the Greek yogurt for a thick dairy-free yogurt and use your favorite plant-based milk.
Blend, sip, and enjoy this cheerful cherry-almond treat!