This High-Protein Cherry Almond Smoothie blends sweet cherries, creamy Greek yogurt, almond butter, banana, and vanilla protein powder into a thick, dessert-inspired smoothie that still feels breakfast-friendly. It’s a quick pick for busy mornings, an after-workout blender win, or an easy snack when you want something cold, creamy, and satisfying. The cherry-almond combo gives it a cheerful pink color and a nutty bakery-style flavor without needing anything complicated.
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen pitted cherries
- 1/2 medium banana, frozen if possible
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk, plus more as needed
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract, optional
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, optional
- 1/2 cup ice, optional for a thicker smoothie
This makes one large smoothie or two smaller snack-size servings. Frozen cherries work best because they add both flavor and thickness, while the Greek yogurt and protein powder help create a creamy, filling texture.
How To Make It
Add the almond milk to the blender first. This helps the blades move smoothly and makes the smoothie easier to blend. Add the Greek yogurt, protein powder, almond butter, banana, cherries, and almond extract if using.
Blend on high until smooth and creamy, about 30 to 60 seconds. If the smoothie is too thick, add another splash of almond milk and blend again. If you want it thicker, add the ice and blend until frosty.
Taste before serving. If your cherries are very tart or your protein powder is not very sweet, add a small drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy right away while it is cold and thick.
Tips
- Use frozen cherries for the best texture. Fresh cherries taste great, but they make a thinner smoothie unless you add ice.
- Choose a protein powder you already like. Vanilla pairs beautifully with cherry and almond, but unflavored protein also works.
- For an extra-creamy sip, use a frozen banana and full-fat or 2% Greek yogurt.
- If the almond flavor is too light, add the optional almond extract a little at a time. A tiny amount goes a long way.
- To prep ahead, portion the cherries and banana into freezer bags. In the morning, add them to the blender with yogurt, almond butter, protein powder, and almond milk.
- Turn it into a smoothie bowl by reducing the almond milk to 1/2 cup and topping with granola, sliced almonds, or extra cherries.
Blend it up and enjoy a bright, creamy cherry-almond treat!