This Cherry Smoothie is rich, creamy, and full of cherry flavor. Made with fresh or frozen cherries, ripe banana, and Greek yogurt, it’s naturally sweet and provides protein, calcium, and antioxidants. Enjoy it for a quick breakfast, a post-workout boost, or a wholesome snack.
My Favorite Cherry Smoothie
If you want a smoothie that feels indulgent but is made from wholesome ingredients, this cherry smoothie is a great choice. It’s like cherry crumb pie in drinkable form—without the extra sugar and butter. It’s naturally sweet, high in protein, and loaded with nutrients, making it ideal for busy mornings or a satisfying snack.
Happy cooking! xo Kristen
Cherry Smoothie Ingredients
- Cherries: Fresh or frozen sweet cherries both work. Frozen cherries are convenient year-round, already pitted, and give the smoothie a frosty texture. If using fresh cherries, consider adding frozen banana chunks to thicken and chill the drink.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and boosts protein and calcium.
- Banana: Ripe banana naturally sweetens and complements the cherries.
- Milk: Any milk or non-dairy alternative works—use what you prefer.
- Vanilla Extract: A little vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
- Ground Flaxseed (optional): Blends in smoothly while adding fiber and omega-3s.
Tips for Making a Cherry Smoothie
Making this cherry smoothie is simple—add ingredients and blend—but a couple of tips will ensure a perfect result.
- Start with liquids. Pour the milk into the blender first so the blades move freely and the mixture blends evenly.
- Serve immediately. Smoothies are at their best right after blending for optimal texture and flavor.
Put Your Own Spin on It
This recipe is very adaptable—try these variations to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Adjust sweetness: Add 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, or 1–2 pitted dates. Use vanilla-flavored yogurt for extra sweetness.
- Dairy-free: Use almond, oat, or other plant milk and non-dairy yogurt.
- Cherry boost: Replace part or all of the milk with tart cherry juice for a more intense cherry flavor.
- Tart cherries: If using tart cherries, add a touch of honey or maple syrup to balance acidity.
- Add nut butter: 1–2 tablespoons of almond or peanut butter adds richness and healthy fats.
- Swap yogurt for cottage cheese: Cottage cheese creates a slightly tangy, cheesecake-like flavor while keeping protein high.
- Cherry almond smoothie: Use almond milk, omit vanilla, add 1/8 teaspoon almond extract, and up to 1 tablespoon almond butter.
- Chocolate cherry smoothie: Add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder and a tablespoon of honey to balance the cocoa’s bitterness.
- Toppings: Sprinkle with granola, a dollop of whipped cream, or a few chocolate shavings and top with a cherry for presentation.
More Fruit Smoothie Recipes
- Pina Colada Smoothie
- Tropical Kale Smoothie
- Blueberry Smoothie
- Mango Smoothie
- Mixed Berry Smoothie
Did you make this recipe?
If you enjoyed it, please leave a comment and a rating at the bottom of the post. Thank you!
Cherry Smoothie
Ingredients
- ½ cup milk, any variety
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pitted dark cherries, frozen
- 1 large ripe banana, in large chunks
- 1 teaspoon ground flaxseed (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Place milk into a blender. Add yogurt, flaxseed (if using), honey or maple syrup (if using), and cherries in that order. Blend until smooth.
- Pour into glasses, top with granola if desired, and serve immediately.
Equipment
- Blender
Notes
Dairy-Free: Use almond or other non-dairy milk and non-dairy plain yogurt.
Fresh cherries: Pit them before blending and use frozen banana chunks to achieve a thick, frosty texture.
Cherry Almond variation: Use almond milk, add 1/8 teaspoon almond extract, and omit the vanilla.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Originally published in 2016 and updated in 2025.