This Cherry Supreme Smoothie Shake is a thick, frosty, and naturally sweet treat that tastes like a cherry pie in a glass. It combines frozen cherries, banana, yogurt, and a touch of almond extract for a smoothie that is both satisfying and refreshing. The recipe is endlessly adaptable, uses simple ingredients, and comes together in under five minutes—perfect for a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or a healthier dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (about 140 g) frozen sweet cherries, pitted
- 1 medium ripe banana, peeled and sliced (about 100 g)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, or soy)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional but recommended)
- 1/2 cup (about 70 g) ice cubes (optional, for a thicker shake)
Instructions
- Place the frozen cherries, banana slices, Greek yogurt, milk, honey (if using), and almond extract into a blender. If you prefer a colder, thicker shake, add the ice cubes now.
- Blend on low for 15 seconds, then increase to high and blend for 30–60 seconds until completely smooth. Stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula if needed.
- Check the consistency: if it is too thick, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time and blend again. If it is too thin, add a few more frozen cherries or ice cubes and blend until thick.
- Taste and adjust sweetness with additional honey or maple syrup if desired. Blend briefly to combine.
- Pour into two glasses and serve immediately with a straw or spoon. Enjoy while cold.
Tips
- Use frozen fruit for the best texture: Frozen cherries are key; they create a thick, creamy shake without needing lots of ice. If you only have fresh cherries, freeze them for at least 2 hours before blending, and add a few ice cubes to compensate.
- Ripe bananas add natural sweetness: A spotty banana is sweeter and blends more smoothly. If your banana is not ripe, you may want to increase the honey or maple syrup.
- Don’t skip the almond extract: It enhances the cherry flavor and gives the shake a “cherry pie” depth. Use just 1/4 teaspoon—it’s potent. If you don’t have it, a drop of vanilla extract works too.
- Adjust the liquid to your blender: If your blender struggles with frozen fruit, start with less milk (1/4 cup) and add more as it blends. This prevents the blade from getting stuck and helps achieve a smooth consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cherry Supreme Smoothie Shake immediately after blending, as it separates upon standing. Pour it into chilled glasses and garnish with a fresh cherry or a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings for a dessert-like presentation. It also works well as a breakfast on the go—pour into a travel cup and top with a handful of granola for crunch. For a fun weekend treat, swirl a spoonful of chocolate sauce around the inside of the glass before pouring the smoothie.
Variations
- Chocolate Cherry Shake: Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder and an extra tablespoon of milk to the blender. This turns it into a black forest–style shake.
- Green Cherry Smoothie: Add a handful of fresh spinach (about 1 cup) along with the other ingredients. The cherries and banana mask the taste, and you get extra nutrients.
- Protein-Packed Version: Add 1 scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder (about 30 g). You may need to add 2–3 tablespoons more milk to keep it smooth.
- Dairy-Free / Vegan: Use a plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond) and a non-dairy milk. Replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar.
- Spiced Cherry Shake: Add a pinch of cinnamon and a tiny pinch of nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor. This is especially good in the fall.
Storage and Reheating
This smoothie is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The texture will thin as the ice melts and the fruit oxidizes, so stir well before drinking. If it separates, give it a vigorous shake or re-blend for 15 seconds. For longer storage, pour the smoothie into an ice cube tray and freeze for up to 3 months; blend the cubes with a splash of milk when ready to enjoy. Do not reheat the smoothie—it is meant to be served cold, and warming it will alter the flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen? Yes, but you’ll need to add about 1/2 cup of ice cubes to achieve the same thick and frosty texture. Fresh cherries are less sweet, so you may want to add an extra teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
What if I don’t have Greek yogurt? Use regular plain yogurt, kefir, or even cottage cheese for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, use a thick plant-based yogurt or a spoonful of nut butter (like almond butter) to add creaminess.
Why is my smoothie too thin? This usually happens when the fruit is not fully frozen or when you add too much liquid. Add more frozen cherries, a handful of ice, or a few tablespoons of rolled oats (blend briefly) to thicken it.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the ingredients in a freezer bag (cherries, banana slices, and yogurt) and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready, dump the contents into the blender, add milk, and blend. This saves time and keeps the shake cold.
Is this smoothie suitable for kids? Absolutely. It’s naturally sweet, and you can omit the almond extract if you prefer a simple cherry flavor. For a fun twist, freeze the smoothie in popsicle molds for a healthy frozen treat.
Can I use cherry pie filling instead of frozen cherries? You can, but it will be much sweeter and higher in added sugar. Reduce or omit the honey, and add ice to thicken. Note that the texture will be less creamy and more syrupy.