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Cherry Vanilla Protein Smoothie - A Creamy, Bright, and Satisfying Blend

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Frozen dark sweet cherries: About 1 to 1 1/2 cups. Frozen works best for thickness and chill.
  • Frozen banana: Half of a medium banana, sliced before freezing. Adds body and natural sweetness.
  • Vanilla protein powder: Whey, pea, or a blend—choose what you like and digest well.
  • Plain or vanilla Greek yogurt: 1/2 cup for creaminess and extra protein. Use dairy-free yogurt if needed.
  • Unsweetened milk of choice: About 3/4 to 1 cup. Almond, oat, dairy, or soy all work.
  • Pure vanilla extract: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon to boost the vanilla profile.
  • Optional sweetener: 1–2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or 1 Medjool date if you prefer it sweeter.
  • Optional add-ins: Pinch of cinnamon, a few cacao nibs, 1 tablespoon chia or ground flax for fiber, or a handful of spinach.
  • Ice (optional): A few cubes if you want it extra thick and frosty.

Method
 

  1. Start with liquids: Add milk to the blender first. This helps the blades catch and blend smoothly.
  2. Layer in the creamy base: Spoon in the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract.
  3. Add the fruit: Drop in the frozen cherries and frozen banana slices.
  4. Protein time: Add the scoop of vanilla protein powder on top of the fruit to prevent sticking to the bottom.
  5. Optional boosters: Add sweetener if desired, plus any extras like chia, flax, or cinnamon.
  6. Blend until silky: Start on low, then move to high for 30–45 seconds, or until smooth and thick. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk. If it’s too thin, add a few ice cubes or more frozen cherries.
  7. Taste and tweak: Adjust sweetness and vanilla. Blend again for a few seconds if you add anything.
  8. Serve right away: Pour into a chilled glass and, if you like, top with a few extra cherries or a sprinkle of cacao nibs.