Save The first time I made this smoothie was actually by accident—I had meant to make a bowl of oatmeal but realized I was out of milk. There sat a bag of frozen tart cherries from my farmers market impulse buy, and half a jar of almond butter staring back at me. Five minutes later, I was drinking something that tasted like dessert for breakfast but felt virtuous enough for a Monday morning.
Last summer, my sister was recovering from surgery and could barely stomach solid food. I brought over a batch of these, and she actually smiled for the first time in days. Something about the creamy almond richness mixed with those bright tart cherries just hits different when you need comfort.
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen tart cherries: Frozen gives you that frosty texture and theyre usually picked at peak ripeness, unlike fresh cherries that might have traveled far
- 1 ripe banana: Frozen banana makes it thick like a milkshake, but fresh works too if thats what you have
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: The secret to making it feel substantial instead of just flavored milk—plant-based works if you need it dairy-free
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk: Lets the cherries shine without competing flavors, though any milk will do
- 2 tablespoons almond butter: This is what transforms it from fruit slushy into something that actually keeps you full until lunch
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup: Tart cherries need a little help, but start here and add more only if you truly need it
Instructions
- Pile everything into your blender:
- There is no wrong order here, though I like putting liquids first so the blades catch everything easily
- Blend until completely smooth:
- Start on low to break up the frozen fruit, then crank it to high for about a minute until you cannot see any chunks
- Taste and adjust:
- Cherries vary in tartness, so take a tiny sip and add more maple syrup only if it makes your mouth pucker
- Pour and enjoy immediately:
- This smoothie does not sit well—it separates and loses that dreamy texture, so drink it while it is frothy and cold
Save My three year old nephew calls this the pink drink and asks for it every time he visits. Watching him hold the glass with both hands, mustache and all, reminds me that sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that stick around.
Make It Thicker Or Thinner
I have learned that everyone has a different opinion on what constitutes drinkable. My husband likes his thin enough to gulp down before work, while I prefer something closer to soft serve. The frozen banana is your main knob here, but ice can help too without watering things down too much.
Mix Up Your Proteins
Sometimes after a morning workout, I will stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder and suddenly this becomes recovery fuel. Other days, a tablespoon of hemp hearts or chia seeds gives it a little nutty crunch that keeps me satisfied. Do not be afraid to make it yours.
When To Make A Double Batch
Smoothies are notoriously annoying to make one at a time, especially if you are feeding a family. I have started making enough for two days at once, though the second day never tastes quite as fresh. If you go this route, give it a vigorous shake or a quick reblend before serving.
- Pour any leftovers into ice cube trays and blend with fresh liquid tomorrow for a zero waste smoothie
- Mason jars with tight lids work better than regular glasses if you are taking this to go
- A quick stir with a spoon can fix minor separation, but a 10 second reblend is even better
Save There is something almost meditative about watching the swirl of pink and white come together in the blender. Hope this becomes your go-to for mornings that need a little extra color.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Best enjoyed fresh immediately after blending for optimal texture and flavor. If storing, keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 24 hours and give it a quick stir or shake before drinking.
- → What can I substitute for almond butter?
Cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or peanut butter work well as alternatives. Each brings its own distinct flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture and protein content.
- → How do I make it thicker?
Use frozen banana instead of fresh, add a handful of ice cubes before blending, or include an extra tablespoon of almond butter. These methods naturally create a richer, more substantial consistency.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
While possible to prepare in advance, the texture is best when freshly blended. For busy mornings, pre-measure ingredients into individual bags and freeze, then simply dump into the blender with liquid when ready.
- → Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Fresh cherries work but will yield a thinner consistency. Add ice cubes or reduce liquid slightly to compensate. Frozen cherries also provide a natural chilling effect and are available year-round.
- → How can I increase the protein content?
Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder, use Greek yogurt with higher protein content, or include an extra tablespoon of almond butter. These additions boost protein while maintaining the smooth texture.