Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a vibrant and nutritious breakfast or snack, the Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie is about to shake up your smoothie routine in the best way possible! This delightful blend brings together the deep richness of cocoa with the bright tang of tart cherries, all mellowed out with a creamy frozen banana and a splash of plant-based milk. It’s luscious, chocolatey, fruity, and absolutely satisfying—perfect for anyone craving a treat that happens to love you back with every sip.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie is a joy thanks to its straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients. Each one plays a pivotal role, whether it’s building body, amping up flavor, or giving the smoothie its signature hue. Here’s what you’ll need and why each addition matters:

• Red tart pitted cherries (1 cup, canned in water): The heart of this smoothie—these tart beauties give the drink its zingy flavor and pretty color.
• Canning liquid from cherries (1/2 cup): Don’t toss the liquid! It adds extra cherry punch and thins out the smoothie for perfect sipping consistency.
• Frozen banana (1, sliced, about 3/4 cup): For creamy texture and natural sweetness that smooths out the tartness of the cherries.
• Cocoa powder (2 tablespoons): Deepens the smoothie with rich chocolate notes, making every sip feel indulgent.
• Unsweetened soymilk (1/2 cup): The plant-based milk that binds everything together, adding a subtle nutty undertone without overpowering the flavors.
• Maple syrup (1 teaspoon): Just a touch adds extra warmth and rounds out the tart and chocolatey elements beautifully.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances both the chocolate and cherry with fragrant, bakery-fresh undertones.
• Ice cubes (2-4): For that refreshing chill and extra-thick texture—add more or less to reach your preferred thickness.
• Pinch of salt: A small but mighty team player, the salt brings all the flavors into vivid focus and smooths out any bitterness.

How to Make Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie

Step 1: Load Up the Blender

Start by placing your tart cherries, canning liquid, frozen banana slices, cocoa powder, soymilk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ice cubes, and that crucial pinch of salt into your blender. Layering the liquids and soft fruits at the bottom will help everything blend smoothly—no chunky surprises!

Step 2: Blend Until Velvety

Secure your blender lid and blend on high speed until everything is perfectly smooth and creamy. Don’t be afraid to stop halfway and scrape down the sides to make sure those sneaky bits of cocoa or banana don’t get left behind. Your Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie should look rich, thick, and deeply chocolatey with flashes of cherry pink.

Step 3: Adjust for Perfection

Give your smoothie a quick taste. Craving a thicker texture? Toss in another ice cube or two and blend again. Want it thinner or more cherry-forward? Add a splash more canning liquid. This step lets you customize it to your exact preference, making your Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie truly your own!

How to Serve Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie

Garnishes

The finishing touches make this smoothie feel truly special. Top with a sprinkle of extra cocoa powder, a few whole cherries, vegan chocolate shavings, or even a swirl of dairy-free whipped cream. These simple garnishes elevate the experience—sometimes it’s the little details that turn an everyday treat into something magical!

Side Dishes

Pair your Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie with a slice of hearty whole-grain toast, a crunchy granola bar, or a small bowl of fresh fruit. If you’re enjoying this as part of a brunch spread, try adding a little bowl of mixed nuts or a mini yogurt parfait on the side to round things out.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions or just a bit of fun, serve your smoothie in chilled mason jars, tall parfait glasses, or even mini shot glasses for a playful brunch bar setup. Swirl a little cherry syrup down the inside of each glass before pouring for a gorgeous marbled look. The rich colors of the Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie really shine in clear glassware!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra smoothie, pour it into a jar with a tight-fitting lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavors mellow beautifully, though you might need to give it a quick shake or stir before enjoying, as some separation can occur.

Freezing

For a make-ahead ultra-cool treat, freeze the smoothie in ice cube trays. Once solid, transfer the cubes to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready for another Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie, just blend the cubes with a splash of soymilk for instant refreshment!

Reheating

While smoothies are best enjoyed cold, you can let refrigerated or frozen portions stand at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to take off the chill. A quick spin in the blender will restore that dreamy, creamy texture if things have thickened up too much.

FAQs

Can I use fresh or frozen cherries instead of canned?

Absolutely! Both fresh and frozen tart cherries work well. If using frozen, simply substitute an equal amount and add a little water or cherry juice to replace the canning liquid. Fresh cherries may need to be pitted first, but they’re fantastic when in season.

Is it possible to make this smoothie without banana?

Yes! If bananas aren’t your thing, try swapping in half an avocado for creaminess, or use a few tablespoons of silken tofu. The flavor will change a bit, but the smoothie will stay rich and satisfying.

What can I use instead of soymilk?

Any unsweetened plant-based milk is a welcome swap—try almond, oat, or coconut milk for slightly different accents. Each one brings a subtle new twist to the classic Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie.

How do I make this smoothie sweeter?

If you have a serious sweet tooth, just add a bit more maple syrup, a pitted date, or a drizzle of agave. Taste as you go so you don’t overpower the bright cherry and cocoa flavors.

Can kids enjoy this smoothie?

Definitely! The Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie is a fantastic, nutrient-packed option for kids. They’ll love the chocolatey taste and fun color, and you’ll love how sneaky-healthy it is.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to fall in love with smoothies all over again, make this Chocolate and Tart Cherry Smoothie your next kitchen adventure. It’s bold, crave-worthy, and packed with ingredients that will make you feel amazing. Go ahead—blend up a glass, share with a friend, and let the flavor surprise you!

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