Before diving into the creamy goodness of an almond cherry smoothie, let's talk pairings. A smoothie like this is versatile, fitting perfectly into various mealtime settings.
¾cupunsweetened almond milk: A great base for creams and drinks. Alternativelyswitch it with any plant milk you prefer.
1ripe banana: Ideally frozen for added creaminess and natural sweetness.
1tablespooncreamy almond butter: A nutty flavor enhancer that's rich in healthy fats.
2cupsfresh baby spinach leaves: Packed with nutrients while remaining neutral in flavor.
½teaspoonpure vanilla extract: An aromatic touch without overpowering the taste.
½teaspoonalmond extract: This adds depth; just a little is plenty.
1teaspoonground cinnamon: This warms up the flavor profile.
1cupfrozen dark cherries: These give the smoothie a vibrant hue and delightful taste.
Chia seedsoptional: Adds fiber and omega-3 fatty acids for a health boost.
Optional Add-ins:
1scoop of protein powder to increase satiety.
1tablespoonunsweetened cacao powder for a chocolatey twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure to have all your items ready. This includes measuring out the almond milk, banana, spinach, and other additions.
Step 2: Blend It Up
Add the unsweetened almond milk into the blender first. Then, toss in the frozen banana, spinach leaves, almond butter, vanilla, almond extract, and cinnamon. The order matters here; putting the liquid first helps everything blend smoothly.
Step 3: Spotlight on Cherries
Next, add in your frozen dark cherries. If you’re using any optional add-ins, throw those in now too. This could be a protein powder for added energy or cacao powder for a sweeter flavor.
Step 4: Blend Until Smooth
Cover the blender and start blending. It may take about 30 seconds to a minute. You want everything to blend to a silky texture. If it’s a bit thick, you can add a splash more almond milk to get your desired consistency.
Step 5: Taste Test
Give it a quick taste. Adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup if needed. A little tweak can make a huge difference!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Pour the smoothie into your favorite glass. A sprinkle of chia seeds or a few leftover cherries on top adds a nice touch.
Notes
Use Frozen Fruits: Frozen fruit gives your smoothie that beloved thick texture without needing ice.
Adjust Sweetness: Taste as you go! Depending on your bananas, you might need extra sweetener.
Experiment with Greens: Substitute baby spinach with kale, but be aware that it can change the flavor slightly.
Don’t Overfill the Blender: This helps avoid messes and ensures smooth blending.
Store Properly: If you make extra, store it in a sealed container and consume it within 48 hours for optimal freshness.