Pin It My roommate in college used to make these every morning during finals week, swearing the tart cherries somehow helped her brain work better. I was skeptical until I tried one sip—this ridiculously simple drink somehow tasted like dessert masquerading as breakfast. Now I keep frozen cherries stocked in my freezer year-round, just in case a craving strikes at 7 AM.
Last summer, my niece was visiting and spotted the bright red frozen cherries in my freezer. She asked what they were for, and I made her this smoothie as an afternoon snack. She proceeded to demand one every single day for the rest of her stay, calling it 'the pink milkshake' and telling everyone who'd listen that her aunt makes the best drinks ever.
Ingredients
- Frozen tart cherries: These are the star of the show and give you that gorgeous pink color and tangy flavor that cuts through the creaminess
- Banana: Frozen makes it thicker and frostier, but fresh works perfectly fine if that is what you have on hand
- Greek yogurt: Adds protein and makes everything velvety smooth—plant-based yogurt works great if you need dairy-free
- Almond milk: Unsweetened keeps you in control of the sweetness level, though any milk you love will work here
- Almond butter: This is the secret ingredient that makes it taste rich and decadent instead of just fruity
- Maple syrup: Completely optional depending on how sweet your banana is and your personal taste
Instructions
- Load everything into the blender:
- Toss in those frozen cherries, sliced banana, yogurt, almond milk, almond butter, and maple syrup if you are using it
- Blend until completely smooth:
- Start on low speed to break everything down, then crank it up to high and let it run for about a full minute until it is silky and uniform
- Taste and tweak:
- Give it a quick taste—if it needs more sweetness, add another splash of maple syrup and blend again briefly
- Pour and enjoy:
- Divide between two glasses, maybe top with some sliced almonds or a few extra cherries if you are feeling fancy, and drink immediately
Pin It 
There is something about the way the sunlight hits a glass of this smoothie that makes even a Tuesday morning feel special. I have started making them for weekend brunch with friends, setting out a little bowl of toppings and letting everyone customize their own. It is become this tiny ritual that somehow turns an ordinary morning into something worth lingering over.
Making It Thicker
If you love that spoonable smoothie bowl texture, throw in a handful of ice cubes or use all frozen fruit instead of fresh. You can also add a spoonful of chia seeds and let it sit for a few minutes—they swell up and make everything incredibly creamy and pudding-like.
Changing Up The Flavor
Sometimes I swap in cashew butter or sunflower butter if I am out of almond butter, and each variation gives it a slightly different personality. A dash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon can completely transform the vibe too.
Batch Prep For Busy Mornings
On Sunday, I portion out all the frozen ingredients into little freezer bags so I can just dump one into the blender with the liquid ingredients and go. It has saved me so many mornings when I am running around like a headless chicken trying to get out the door.
- Double the recipe and keep the extra in a mason jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours
- If it separates, just give it a quick shake or a 10-second blend buzz
- Add a scoop of protein powder if you need it to carry you through a long morning
Pin It Here is to mornings that feel a little more indulgent than they have any right to be, and to finding joy in something as simple as a really good smoothie.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
For best texture and freshness, blend immediately before serving. However, you can prep ingredients by portioning frozen cherries, sliced banana, and other additions into freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, simply dump the contents into your blender with almond milk and yogurt—no measuring required in the morning rush.
- → What creates the thick, creamy texture?
Frozen banana acts as a natural thickener, while Greek yogurt contributes protein and richness. The frozen tart cherries also add body without diluting flavor. For even more thickness, toss in a few ice cubes before blending or use entirely frozen fruit rather than fresh.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Simply swap Greek yogurt for your favorite plant-based alternative—coconut, almond, or oat yogurt all work beautifully. The almond butter already provides creaminess, so you won't miss the dairy. Ensure your almond milk is also certified dairy-free if you have severe allergies or sensitivities.
- → Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Fresh cherries work but will create a thinner consistency. To maintain the thick texture, add extra ice or freeze your fresh cherries beforehand. Pit and freeze fresh cherries in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for easy smoothie prep year-round.
- → What milk alternatives pair best with these flavors?
Unsweetened almond milk reinforces the nutty notes from almond butter, but oat milk adds natural sweetness and creaminess. Cashew milk blends seamlessly, while coconut milk introduces tropical undertones. Avoid strongly flavored varieties like chocolate or vanilla to let the cherry flavor shine through.
- → How can I reduce the natural sugar content?
Omit the maple syrup entirely—the banana provides ample sweetness for most palates. Choose an unsweetened, unflavored yogurt variety and stick to unsweetened almond milk. If you prefer sweetness, try stevia or monk fruit drops for zero-calorie flavor without affecting blood sugar levels.