A luscious, creamy blend of ripe dark cherries, bananas, and rich cocoa, these Dark Cherry Chocolate Smoothie Jars offer a naturally sweet, indulgent treat. Perfectly chilled and elegantly served in glass jars, this smoothie makes for a refreshing breakfast, post-workout snack, or healthy dessert that feels like a chocolate-covered cherry in smoothie form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This smoothie is both delicious and nourishing, blending antioxidant-rich dark cherries with the natural sweetness of banana and the decadent flavor of cocoa. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and made without refined sugar, yet still tastes like dessert. The optional almond butter adds a silky richness, and the whole recipe comes together in minutes—ideal for busy mornings or healthy cravings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 ripe bananas, frozen
1 1/2 cups frozen dark cherries (plus extra for topping)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
1 tablespoon almond butter (optional for richness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
1–2 teaspoons maple syrup (optional, to taste)
Directions
- In a high-speed blender, combine frozen bananas, frozen cherries, cocoa powder, almond milk, almond butter (if using), vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Add more milk one tablespoon at a time if needed to adjust consistency.
- Taste and adjust sweetness with maple syrup, if desired.
- Pour into jars or glasses, smoothing the tops.
- Garnish with halved fresh cherries or additional frozen cherries.
- Serve immediately with a spoon or a thick straw.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Blend Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 7 minutes
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder.
- Nut-Free Option: Skip almond butter or replace with sunflower seed butter.
- Creamier Texture: Use coconut milk or add a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt.
- Extra Greens: Add a handful of baby spinach or kale for a nutrition boost—flavor stays sweet.
- Dessert Style: Top with a dollop of whipped coconut cream and dark chocolate shavings.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a warming twist.
Storage/Reheating
This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately for the freshest flavor and texture.
However, you can store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Stir well before serving.
Freezing is not recommended, as it alters the texture when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Yes, but for best texture and chill, use frozen bananas if using fresh cherries to maintain thickness.
Do I need a high-speed blender?
A standard blender works, but a high-speed blender ensures a smoother, creamier texture.
Is this smoothie vegan?
Yes, it is naturally vegan if you use plant-based milk and skip dairy toppings.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It can be stored for up to 24 hours in the fridge, but it’s best consumed fresh.
Can I omit the cocoa powder?
Yes, though it changes the flavor significantly. You’ll get more of a fruity cherry-banana profile.
Is it sweet enough without maple syrup?
Most likely, yes. Taste before adding any sweetener; the bananas and cherries usually provide sufficient sweetness.
What can I use instead of almond butter?
You can use peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter, or omit it entirely.
Can I add oats to this smoothie?
Yes, a couple tablespoons of rolled oats will thicken it and add fiber.
Will this smoothie keep me full?
With banana, cherries, almond butter, and optional protein additions, it can be quite satisfying for several hours.
How do I make it more chocolatey?
Add more cocoa powder or use chocolate almond milk for an extra chocolaty experience.
Conclusion
Dark Cherry Chocolate Smoothie Jars are a delightfully healthy way to indulge your chocolate cravings while nourishing your body. Quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this smoothie recipe is one you’ll return to again and again. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, after a workout, or as a light dessert, it’s a jar full of refreshing satisfaction.
Print
Dark Cherry Chocolate Smoothie Jars
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A luscious, creamy blend of ripe dark cherries, bananas, and cocoa swirled into a rich smoothie, served in glass jars and topped with juicy fresh cherries for a naturally sweet and indulgent treat.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, frozen
- 1 1/2 cups frozen dark cherries (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tablespoon almond butter (optional for richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup (optional, to taste)
Instructions
- In a high-speed blender, combine the frozen bananas, frozen cherries, cocoa powder, almond milk, almond butter (if using), vanilla extract, and sea salt.
- Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Add more milk a tablespoon at a time if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust sweetness with maple syrup, if desired.
- Pour into serving jars or glasses, smoothing the tops.
- Garnish generously with halved fresh cherries or more frozen cherries.
- Serve immediately with a spoon or thick straw.
Notes
- Use frozen fruit for a thick, creamy texture.
- Adjust sweetness to taste using maple syrup or other natural sweeteners.
- Top with granola or coconut flakes for added texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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