Banana Cherry Smoothie

Banana Cherry Smoothie – This easy smoothie recipe is packed full of goodness and flavor!  Frozen dark cherries come together with banana, yogurt, and almond extract for an unforgettable breakfast treat or snack!

So, if you follow me on Instagram, you already knew this cherry smoothie was coming and that I am obnoxiously excited to share it with you!  My kids and I love smoothies, easily our breakfast of choice around here.

I love that my kids prefer a smoothie in the morning.  I know that not only is it healthier than whatever is in that box-o-sugar-cereal that’s in the cabinet, it’s also just as easy for me to make in no time flat!

One of my favorite things about making a smoothie is that you really can do no wrong.  You can customize it any way you please, and the variations are practically endless.

Cherry and banana is my go-to combo for sure.  I’ve loved anything cherry since I was a kid myself.  You can beat that rich, sweet, flavor – and it helps that it makes for a gorgeous looking smoothie as well!  Bananas also lend a sweetness and really help to make that smoothie super creamy.  It almost feels like dessert!

I think the biggest thing I’ve noticed is that people get really particular about what kind of yogurt they like.  I typically use Greek vanilla.  You can really use any kind of yogurt you’d like in this smoothie and it will turn out great.  I have used plain yogurt, regular old vanilla or cherry (not Greek style) or you can leave the yogurt out altogether too!

The almond extract is kind of my “secret ingredient” here.  It just adds another level of flavor that makes the smoothie feel anything but plain.  Again, the sky is the limit.  If you hate almond extract, leave it out, or substitute with vanilla instead!

This cherry smoothie is very basic, so, let’s chat about how to make a smoothie in general.  That way you can play around with flavor combinations of your own!

How to make a smoothie:

• Use at least one frozen fruit to make your smoothie nice and frosty.  I like to use frozen cherries (or berries) and then two bananas that are not frozen.

• Add a good amount of liquid into the blender first, that will be the base of your smoothie.  I use vanilla almond milk.  You can use any kind of milk, juice, or even water.

• Add your frozen cherries, sliced banana chunks, and then yogurt if desired for extra creaminess right into the blender on top of the milk.

• If desired, add in a few drops of almond or vanilla extract for extra flavor!

• Extra:  If you like your smoothies sweeter, add 1-2 Tablespoons of honey or pure maple syrup!

Looking for other tasty breakfast recipes?  Try these:

• Tater Tot Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
• Overnight Blueberry French Toast 
• Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake