Pin
When I need a fast drink that actually keeps me full through a crazy morning or afternoon, this Light Cherry Banana Smoothie does the trick. It’s bursting with cherries and creamy banana, plus it’s loaded with protein and comes together in moments.
After a sweat session one morning, I threw this together and couldn’t believe how it held me over compared to other shakes I’ve made. It’s now our quick breakfast fix whenever we want something tasty but healthy.
Essential Ingredients
- Vanilla protein powder: brings a hint of vanilla flavor and makes the smoothie filling Pick one that’s naturally sweetened so it mixes in smoothly
- Fat free milk: makes things creamy but keeps it light Use cold milk so it blends up nice and thick
- Plain Greek yogurt: adds some tangy flavor and lots of protein Grab a thick, strained type for the creamiest results
- Frozen banana: thickens things up and brings sweetness Ripe and spotty bananas are best for flavor
- Frozen dark sweet cherries: fill your cup with bold color and that classic cherry zing Deep red cherries bring the best taste
Simple How-To
- Time to Serve:
- Pour your thick smoothie into two chilled cups. Tastes best icy cold and fresh from the blender.
- Give It a Taste Test:
- Try your smoothie—if you need more sweetness, toss in another piece of banana. If it’s too thick, a splash more milk will help.
- Blend It Up Smooth:
- Turn your blender up high for a full minute until it’s totally creamy and there are no fruit bits left. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides if things stick.
- Load Blender with Ingredients:
- Drop the protein powder, banana, frozen cherries, fat free milk, and Greek yogurt into your blender. Put the softest stuff on the bottom so it blends easier.
Pin
I love the slight tang from the cherries matched with the creamy yogurt, and whenever I whip it up my kid tries to sneak cherries before I blend them. Honestly, it reminds me that simple, fresh stuff is always best when you want something quick and yummy.
Keep It Fresh
Fresh from the blender is when this smoothie is at its best—ice cold and smooth. If you can’t finish it, stash leftovers in a lidded jar in the fridge and shake well before drinking, but use it up within half a day.
Swaps and Changes
No cherries on hand? Frozen mixed berries stand in great for a tart twist. No protein powder? Up your Greek yogurt for creaminess and staying power. Dairy free options for milk and yogurt also work fine if you want plant-based.
Fun Ways to Eat
Pour the smoothie into a bowl, then pile on granola, some spare cherries, or sprinkle coconut flakes for a treat. Or for a snack, pour into ice pop molds, freeze, and snack later.
Pin
Background & Origins
Fruit smoothies date back centuries in South America where blending fruit’s a tradition. Cherries and bananas are one of my favorite pairs since they’re bright and smooth together every time.
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Could I swap in fresh cherries for frozen ones?
Definitely. Just toss in a few ice cubes so you still get that chilly, thick texture when blending.
- → Can I go dairy-free with this?
For sure! Just reach for almond or oat milk and your favorite plant yogurt instead of dairy versions.
- → Will the protein powder change the taste?
Vanilla protein blends right in and gives light sweetness. You can skip it if you want—the smoothie turns out just fine.
- → How do I make this sweeter?
Want a sweeter sip? Throw in some honey or a soft date before you blend. Taste and tweak as you go.
- → Can I blend it ahead and chill it?
You’ll get the best flavor fresh, but you can pop it in the fridge for a bit. Give it a good shake or stir before drinking.
- → What can I pile on top for fun?
Top it with extra cherries, banana slices, or even some crunchy granola for more bite.