Cherry Vanilla Smoothie Recipe

Cherry Vanilla Smoothie Recipe

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy

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Ingredients

• Smoothie Base:
  • 1 1/2 cups frozen cherries (pitted)
  • 1 frozen banana, sliced
  • 1 cup vanilla almond milk (or any preferred milk)
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (can be substituted with a dairy-free alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for a hint of nuttiness)
  • 1/2 cup ice cubes
• Garnishes:
  • Fresh cherries, pitted and halved
  • Shaved dark chocolate
  • Chopped almonds
  • Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

1. Preparation:
   • Ensure all ingredients are ready: measure out the frozen cherries, slice the frozen banana, and measure the remaining ingredients.
   • Optionally, pit and halve a few fresh cherries for garnish and prepare the shaved dark chocolate and chopped almonds.
2. Blending:
   • In a high-speed blender, combine the frozen cherries, frozen banana slices, vanilla almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and ice cubes.
   • Blend on high until smooth and creamy. This should take about 1-2 minutes depending on the power of your blender. If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more almond milk to reach your desired consistency.
3. Texture and Consistency Tips:
   • For a thicker smoothie, use more frozen banana or add extra ice cubes.
   • For a thinner consistency, increase the amount of almond milk or blend in a splash of water.
   • To achieve a velvety smooth texture, blend the mixture in intervals, pausing to scrape down the sides of the blender jar as needed.
4. Serving:
   • Pour the smoothie into two chilled glasses.
   • Garnish with fresh cherry halves, a sprinkle of shaved dark chocolate, a few chopped almonds, and a couple of fresh mint leaves.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Smoothie Bowls: Pour the smoothie into bowls and top with fresh cherries, granola, sliced banana, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings for a more substantial meal.
• Layered Smoothie: Create a layered effect by blending half of the smoothie ingredients with strawberries or raspberries for a red layer and the other half with vanilla protein powder for a creamy layer. Layer them in the glass for a visually appealing twist.
• Dessert Smoothie: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt to the blender for a decadent treat. Serve in a sundae glass with whipped cream, a cherry on top, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

• Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• Nut-Free: Use regular milk or a nut-free milk alternative, such as oat milk, and omit the almond extract.
• Lower Sugar: Skip the honey or maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet smoothie, relying on the natural sweetness of the cherries and banana.