This chocolate cherry smoothie is nutrient-dense, extra creamy, and tastes just like a chocolate-covered cherry. It’s an energizing breakfast option or a satisfying snack any time of day.
5-Star Review
Sweet, creamy, and chocolatey! I have made this smoothie several times and it never disappoints. The chocolate and cherry combination is perfect. A phenomenal smoothie.
Cristin ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Why You’ll Love this Chocolate Cherry Protein Smoothie
This smoothie brings together leafy greens, fruit, healthy fats, and protein for a nourishing, well-rounded drink that’s also delicious. It’s smooth, creamy and delivers that classic chocolate-cherry flavour with each sip.
- Vegan and gluten-free; can be made nut-free and contains no added sugar if you choose.
- High in protein and fiber when using a quality protein powder and chia seeds.
- About 28 grams of protein per serving (depends on the protein powder you choose).
- Silky texture and rich chocolate-cherry taste thanks to frozen cherries, banana, and cocoa.
- Easy to prepare ahead and store in the fridge for a grab-and-go breakfast.
Ingredient Notes
Below are the ingredients used in this smoothie along with simple substitutions you can make to suit your dietary needs or pantry supplies.
The ingredient amounts and full recipe steps are listed in the recipe card below. Here are quick notes on each main component:
- Greens: Fresh or frozen spinach or kale both work well and add vitamins and fiber without overpowering the flavor.
- Cherries: Pitted frozen cherries are ideal for texture and temperature. Fresh cherries can be used if pitted first.
- Frozen Banana: Essential for natural sweetness and a creamy consistency. Peel, break into chunks, and freeze in a bag or container ahead of time. If your blender isn’t very powerful, slice the banana thinly before freezing to make blending easier.
- Cacao or Cocoa Powder: Raw cacao adds depth; unsweetened cocoa powder is a fine substitute if you don’t have cacao.
- Protein Powder: Use your preferred vegan protein—chocolate or vanilla both work. Adjust amount to meet your protein goals.
- Milk or Liquid: Almond milk is used here, but any plant milk, coconut water, or water will work to thin the smoothie to your preferred consistency.
- Chia Seeds: Optional. They thicken the drink and contribute fiber and healthy fats.
Variations
Customize this smoothie to your taste or to increase nutrition:
- Extra Veggies: Add up to 1 cup of mild-flavored cooked or frozen vegetables such as cauliflower, zucchini, sweet potato, or beet for more fiber and volume.
- Other Fruit: Peaches or strawberries pair nicely with cherries and cocoa.
- Healthy Fats: Add 1–2 tablespoons of hemp seeds, flaxseed, or nut butter for creaminess and satiety.
- Hydration: Swap plant milk for coconut water to lighten the texture and add electrolytes.
- Nutrition Boosters: A small amount (1–2 teaspoons) of superfood powders like maca, moringa, or mushroom blends can boost micronutrients. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the flavor.
- Smoothie Bowl: Use less liquid, blend on low until very thick and ice-cream-like, then top with granola, fresh fruit, or seeds.
Smoothie Tips
Small technique choices make a big difference in texture and flavor:
- Add the liquid to the blender first, then layer in the rest of the ingredients—this helps blades catch and blend more smoothly.
- Begin blending on low to combine ingredients, then increase to high briefly for a smooth finish.
- Avoid over-blending to prevent heat from the motor warming and thinning the smoothie.
- If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more liquid and blend briefly; if too thin, add a few ice cubes or more frozen fruit.
How to Prep and Store
- Make ahead: Smoothies can be made and stored in the refrigerator for 1–2 days. They may thin slightly but remain tasty.
- Freezer packs: Combine all solid ingredients (fruit, greens, seeds) in freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready, add liquid and blend.
- Freeze as cubes: Blend the smoothie, pour into ice cube trays, freeze, then transfer cubes to a bag. Blend several cubes with a splash of liquid for a quick single-serve smoothie or add to other blends for a flavor boost.
More Smoothies to Try
- Mango Pineapple Smoothie
- Kale Spinach Smoothie
- Lemon Blueberry Smoothie
- Chocolate Banana Smoothie
- Beet Orange Smoothie
- Strawberry Raspberry Protein Smoothie
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and a rating—feedback helps others and I love hearing how you enjoyed it. Thank you for trying the recipe!
Chocolate Cherry Protein Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups almond milk (375 mL)
- 1 1/2 cups frozen pitted cherries (210 g)
- 1 small frozen banana (about 100 g)
- 1 tbsp almond butter (15 g)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, 12 g)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder (16 g)
- 1 serving chocolate or vanilla vegan protein powder (30 g)
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (about 35 g)
Instructions
- Add the almond milk to a blender, then add the cherries, frozen banana, almond butter, chia seeds (if using), cocoa powder, protein powder, and greens.
- Start blending on low until ingredients begin to combine, then increase to high and blend briefly until completely smooth and creamy.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 smoothie
Calories: 386 kcal
Carbohydrates: 62 g
Protein: 28 g
Fat: 5 g
Fiber: 14 g