Cherry Vanilla Smoothie Recipe
An easy and delicious recipe for a creamy Cherry Vanilla Smoothie, blending sweet cherries with aromatic vanilla for a perfect, healthy, and refreshing treat.
Equipment
- Blender: A good quality blender is key for a smooth, creamy texture, especially when using frozen fruit.
- Cherry Pitter (Optional but recommended for fresh cherries): Makes pitting fresh cherries much faster and cleaner.
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving glass
Ingredients
- 1 - 1.5 cups pitted cherries fresh or frozen, sweet varieties recommended
- 1/2 - 1 frozen banana peeled and chunked
- 1/2 - 1 cup milk of choice dairy or non-dairy
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract or 1/2 vanilla bean seeds / 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste
Optional:
- 1/4 cup plain/Greek yogurt
- sweetener to taste maple syrup, honey,
- one scoop protein powder
- 1 tbsp nut butter
- a handful of spinach.
Instructions
- If using fresh cherries, wash, stem, and pit them. Freeze if desired for a thicker smoothie.
- Combine cherries, frozen banana, milk, vanilla extract, and any optional ingredients in a blender.
- Blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy (30-60 seconds), adding more milk if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or vanilla if necessary.
- Pour into a glass and serve immediately. Garnish as desired.
Notes
Tips for Success:
- Use frozen fruit (cherries and/or bananas) for the best creamy, cold texture without diluting flavor with ice.
- Start with less liquid and add more as needed to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Good quality vanilla makes a big difference.
- Taste and adjust before serving.
- Garnish with a fresh cherry, a sprinkle of cocoa, or chopped nuts.
- Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a healthy dessert.
- Pairs well with granola or a light pastry.