Cherry Smoothie
Ingredients
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Frozen Sweet Cherries: 1.5 cups (pitted)
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Greek Yogurt: ½ cup (plain or vanilla for extra creaminess)
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Milk of Choice: 1 cup (almond, oat, or dairy milk all work well)
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Banana: 1 small, frozen (this provides the thick, velvety texture)
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Honey or Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon (optional, depending on fruit sweetness)
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Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon
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Optional Boost: 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds
Instructions
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Prep the Fruit: If you aren’t using pre-frozen cherries, pit them and freeze them for at least 2 hours. Using frozen fruit is the secret to getting that thick, frosty consistency without needing to add ice, which can water down the flavor.
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Layer the Blender: To protect your blender blades and ensure a smooth cycle, add your liquid (milk) first. Follow this with the yogurt, then the frozen cherries and banana.
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Blend: Start on a low speed to break up the large frozen chunks, then increase to high. Blend for about 45–60 seconds until the mixture is completely uniform and no fruit bits remain.
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Adjust Consistency: If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more milk. If you prefer it thicker, add a few more frozen cherries or a couple of ice cubes.
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Serve: Pour into a chilled glass. Garnish with a fresh cherry on top and a fun straw, just like in your photo!
Quick Tip: For an extra “dark chocolate cherry” flavor, add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the mix!