Description
Creamy and delicious Chocolate Cherry Almond Smoothie! This healthy treat is packed with antioxidants, protein, and fiber, making it the perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup frozen sweet cherries, pitted
- 1/2 frozen banana, sliced
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup almond butter (creamy or crunchy, your preference!)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk you like)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess and protein)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for added fiber and omega-3s)
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 pitted Medjool dates (optional, for extra sweetness)
- A few slivered almonds, for garnish (optional)
- Ice cubes (optional, if you want a thicker smoothie)
Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients: Make sure you have everything ready. Double-check your cherry supply and make sure your banana is frozen.
- Combine Ingredients in Blender: Add all the ingredients to your blender. Start with the almond milk at the bottom. Then, add the frozen cherries, frozen banana, cocoa powder, almond butter, Greek yogurt (if using), chia seeds (if using), almond extract, vanilla extract, and Medjool dates (if using).
- Blending Time! Secure the lid on your blender and start blending on low speed, gradually increasing to high speed. Blend until everything is completely smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes, depending on your blender. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a few ice cubes and blend again.
- Taste and Adjust: Give your smoothie a taste! If it’s not sweet enough for you, add another Medjool date or a drizzle of maple syrup. If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, add a little more cocoa powder. If you want a stronger almond flavor, add a tiny bit more almond extract but be careful, a little goes a long way!
- Pour and Garnish: Once you’re happy with the taste and consistency, pour the smoothie into a glass. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a few slivered almonds.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your delicious and healthy Chocolate Cherry Almond Smoothie right away! It’s best when it’s fresh and cold.
Notes
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder. Chocolate or vanilla protein powder would work well.
- Greens Addition: Sneak in some extra greens by adding a handful of spinach or kale.
- Nut Butter Swap: If you’re not a fan of almond butter, you can substitute it with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter.
- Sweetener Options: If you don’t have Medjool dates, you can use other natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and cozy flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: For an extra decadent treat, add a tablespoon of mini chocolate chips to the blender.
- Coffee Kick: Add a shot of espresso or a tablespoon of instant coffee for a mocha-inspired smoothie.
- Make it Vegan: Ensure all ingredients are vegan-friendly. Use plant-based yogurt alternatives and sweeteners like maple syrup or agave.
- Thickening Options: If you want an extra thick smoothie bowl consistency, add more frozen fruit or a tablespoon of rolled oats.
- Thinning Options: If your smoothie is too thick, add more liquid, such as water, coconut water, or juice.
- Storage: While this smoothie is best enjoyed immediately, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly as it sits. You may need to add a little more liquid and blend again before drinking. You can also freeze the smoothie in ice cube trays for later use. When you’re ready to drink it, simply blend the frozen smoothie cubes with a little almond milk or water.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes