Description
This Cherry Banana Smoothie is a refreshing blend of sweet bananas and tart cherries, perfect for breakfast or a snack. Packed with vitamins and customizable to your taste, it’s a nutritious drink that can be enjoyed any time of the day!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (for added nutrition)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ice cubes (optional, for a thicker smoothie)
Instructions
- Gather Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Ensure your cherries are pitted, especially if using fresh cherries.
- Banana Preparation: Peel the ripe banana and break it into chunks. A ripe banana adds natural sweetness and creaminess.
- Measure the Almond Milk: Pour 1 cup of almond milk into a measuring cup. You can substitute with any other plant-based milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk.
- Chia Seeds: Measure out 1 tablespoon of chia seeds for added nutrition and texture.
- Maple Syrup: If desired, measure out 1 tablespoon of maple syrup for sweetness. Adjust based on the sweetness of your cherries.
- Add Ingredients to Blender: In a high-speed blender, combine the pitted cherries, banana chunks, almond milk, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and maple syrup (if using). Add ice cubes for a thicker smoothie.
- Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid and blend on high speed for 30-60 seconds, starting on a lower speed to combine. Add more almond milk if the mixture is too thick.
- Check Consistency and Taste: Stop the blender and taste the smoothie. Adjust sweetness with more maple syrup if needed, or add almond milk for a thinner consistency.
- Pour into Glasses: Pour the smoothie into tall glasses, showcasing its beautiful color. This recipe typically makes about two servings.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with whole cherries, a sprinkle of chia seeds, or a mint leaf for added flair.
- Enjoy Immediately: Smoothies are best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge for a few hours, but note that the texture may change.
Notes
- Add Greens: Sneak in some spinach or kale for extra nutrients without altering the flavor.
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of plant-based protein powder for a meal replacement or post-workout snack.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding other fruits like peaches or strawberries for variety.
- Storage Tips: Freeze leftover smoothie in an ice cube tray for future use.
- Make it a Bowl: Pour into a bowl and top with granola, sliced fruits, or nuts for a smoothie bowl.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes