Cherry Almond Smoothie Blend

This cherry almond smoothie perfectly balances sweet cherries with nutty almond flavors for a protein-packed breakfast that feels like dessert. I created this recipe during cherry season last summer and have been making it almost weekly since discovering how energized it leaves me feeling throughout the morning.

I originally developed this recipe when training for a half marathon and needed something substantial yet easy to digest before my morning runs. The protein keeps me full while the fruit provides quick energy.

Ingredients

• Frozen cherries: the star of this smoothie providing natural sweetness and antioxidants
• Frozen banana: adds creaminess and natural sweetness without needing added sugar
• Ice cubes: help thicken the smoothie for that perfect consistency
• Vanilla protein powder: boosts the protein content while complementing the cherry flavor
• Plain Greek yogurt: adds protein and tangy creaminess
• Almond butter: delivers healthy fats and intensifies the almond flavor profile
• Almond extract: just a small amount brings out the cherry flavor and enhances the almond notes
• Almond milk: creates the perfect pourable consistency while continuing the almond theme

How To Make Cherry Almond Smoothie

Layer Ingredients:

Add everything to your blender in the order listed with heavier items on top. This technique helps create a vortex during blending that pulls everything down toward the blades for the smoothest result.

Blend to Perfection:

Start on low speed for about 15 seconds to break down the frozen fruit then gradually increase to high speed. Continue blending for approximately 45 seconds until completely smooth with no visible chunks remaining.

Check Consistency:

If your smoothie seems too thick, add an extra splash of almond milk. If it seems too thin, add a few more ice cubes and blend again briefly.

Serve Immediately:

Pour into glasses and enjoy right away while the texture is at its creamiest and most delightful.

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The combination of cherries and almonds has always fascinated me because they share similar flavor compounds despite being completely different plants. My grandmother used to make cherry almond cookies every Christmas, and this smoothie brings back those warm holiday memories but in a nutritious breakfast form.

Make Ahead Options

This smoothie can be prepared the night before and stored in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator. The texture will thicken slightly overnight, so you may want to give it a quick stir or brief blend in the morning. For meal prep, you can also create smoothie packs by dividing all ingredients except the liquid into freezer bags, then simply dump into the blender with almond milk when ready to enjoy.

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Ingredient Substitutions

If cherries are unavailable, mixed berries make an excellent substitute while maintaining the beautiful color. For those with nut allergies, sunflower seed butter can replace almond butter, and oat milk works wonderfully instead of almond milk. The almond extract can be swapped for vanilla extract, though you will lose some of the signature almond flavor. For a tropical twist, try coconut milk instead of almond milk and add a quarter cup of pineapple chunks.

Nutrition Boost Ideas

Transform this already nutritious smoothie into a complete superfood meal by adding a handful of spinach which disappears flavor wise but adds substantial nutrients. A tablespoon of chia seeds will increase the omega fatty acids and add fiber. For those looking for additional antioxidants, a tablespoon of cacao powder complements the cherry flavor beautifully while adding a chocolate note to the smoothie.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh cherries work well in this smoothie. Add a few extra ice cubes to achieve the chilled consistency.

→ What can I use instead of almond butter?

Peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter are great alternatives that maintain creamy texture and flavor.

→ Is there a substitute for almond milk?

Feel free to use any milk alternative, such as oat milk, soy milk, or regular dairy milk, depending on your preference.

→ Can I make this smoothie vegan?

Use a vegan protein powder, swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based version, and choose non-dairy milk options for a vegan-friendly smoothie.

→ How can I adjust the sweetness level?

For more sweetness, add a teaspoon of honey or a date. For less, omit banana or choose unsweetened almond milk.

→ Can I add additional ingredients?

Absolutely! Try adding spinach for extra greens, chia seeds for fiber, or cocoa powder for a richer flavor.