Hydrating Cherry Smoothie

This cherry smoothie is a sweet, tart, creamy blend of dark cherries, hemp seeds, honey, coconut water, and yogurt. Ultra-refreshing and ultra-satisfying, this hydrating healthy cherry smoothie is great for breakfast or a snack. (This recipe is gluten-free, vegetarian, and can easily be made dairy-free.)

For more hydrating, nutrient-dense drinks, check out our Spirulina Chia Fresca or Cherimoya Smoothie next!

Cherry smoothies are sweet without bananas and creamy without the need for dairy. With a vibrant red color and a frosty consistency, this is the perfect summertime treat! Enjoy the best cherry smoothie poolside on a hot summer day and you’ll know true bliss.

Reasons This Cherry Smoothie Recipe Works

• Quick & Easy! This takes less than 10 minutes and just 6 ingredients to prepare.
• A Healthy Snack! This is a nutritious alternative to sugary cereals. Each smoothie is filled with electrolytes, protein, and minerals.
• Family Friendly! Kids and adults alike will enjoy these sweet cherry smoothies.

Cherry Benefits

Cherries are a superfood, with plenty of health benefits. Here are a few:

An Excellent Source of Antioxidants

They combat chronic diseases like diabetes by lowering blood pressure levels. They maintain liver health and aid in freeing the body of toxins.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

They help reduce inflammation with their anti-inflammatory properties. This assists with muscle recovery and relieves soreness post-workout. Cherries can also improve inflammatory conditions like arthritis and gout.

Contains Natural Melatonin

Consuming cherries improves overall sleep quality. Melatonin regulates the sleep cycle for a better night’s rest.

Improves Brain Health

The anthocyanins that give the cherries that distinct red hue are also linked to brain health and improved memory.

Vitamin Rich

Cherries contain Vitamins C, A, & K. Vitamin C protects cells from free radicals, preventing cell damage which leads to illness and aging. Vitamin A protects the immune system and Vitamin K promotes healthy bones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Frozen Dark Cherries: Dark cherries are sweeter than regular cherries, which tend to be more tart. Whether you prefer sweet cherries or tart cherries, I suggest using frozen cherries. You can enjoy smoothies year-round and they also provide a better texture. If using fresh cherries, ensure they are pitted.
• Yogurt of Choice: I use dairy-free cashew yogurt for a creamy texture. This is a great source of good bacteria or probiotics, which promote gut health. Probiotics prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Aside from being beneficial to overall health, probiotics are also responsible for the tangy taste most people associate with yogurt. If you prefer dairy, try vanilla Greek yogurt instead.
• Hemp Seeds: This healthy fat includes omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and provides fiber.
• Coconut Water: This beverage is loaded with electrolytes and has hydrating qualities.
• Honey: This is a healthy alternative to sugar because it’s better for blood sugar levels.
• Ice Cubes: Use as desired to thicken the smoothie.

How to Make a Cherry Smoothie

BLEND. Combine all the ingredients in a high-powered blender and blend until smooth.

ADJUST AS NECESSARY. If your smoothie is thicker than you’d like, add more liquid. If you would like your smoothie thicker, add ice or more frozen fruit, until you reach your desired consistency.

Tips To Nail this Cherry Smoothie Recipe

• If your cherry smoothie is too thick, add more coconut water. If it’s too thin, try adding more ice cubes until you reach your desired consistency.
• Use a high-powered blender for the best results.
• Garnish with fresh cherries for a pretty presentation.
• Never blend cherries with the pits still inside. They contain cyanide which is poisonous.

Variations

• VEGGIES. Add spinach or kale. It will alter the color but you’ll barely taste it, and have even more nutrients.
• FRUIT. Many cherry smoothie recipes include frozen bananas or berries.
• JUICE. For a sweeter smoothie, use a splash of apple juice or cherry juice.
• MILK. If using milk, try a non-dairy alternative like unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
• OTHER ADD-INS. Try adding other ingredients for added flavor, texture, and nutrition. I suggest ingredients like almond extract, rolled oats, chia seeds, almond butter, protein powder, pitted dates, nut butter, flaxseed, cocoa powder, or avocados.

Storage

Store the leftover cherry smoothie in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 days. When you want to drink it, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes then reblend, adding some liquid.

FAQs

Can I put cherries in a blender?

You can definitely place pitted cherries in a blender. The pits contain cyanide which is poisonous, so always make sure to remove them.

Are cherry smoothies good for you?

Absolutely! Cherries are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Are cherry smoothies better with milk or juice?

This recipe contains neither. I use non-dairy yogurt instead. Adding juice to smoothies results in a sugary drink so for health benefits, milk is the better choice.

I Hope You Enjoy This Cherry Smoothie Recipe!

If you try the recipe, don’t forget to rate the recipe and let me know what you think in the comments. Leave a quick review & star rating ★ below!