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I throw together this low-cal cherry banana smoothie when I need something fast and super tasty after a workout. Cherries and creamy banana come together to make mornings feel bright and keep me full for ages.
I tossed everything in my blender when I was running late, and after my first sip it’s been my default after-run snack every time
Delicious Ingredients
- Vanilla protein powder: Bumps up the nutrition and gives a dessert-like flavor—pick whichever blend you like best
- Fat-free milk: Helps make it drinkable and keeps things lighter—go for the freshest milk for the best taste
- Plain Greek yogurt: Makes it creamy and loaded with protein—choose the thickest you can spot
- Frozen banana: Builds the thick texture and natural sweet kick—no need for honey or sugar
- Frozen dark sweet cherries: Bright color and sweet-tart vibes—just be sure they’re the kind without extra sugar
Easy How-To
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Right away, pour into two glasses and sip while it’s at its best texture and flavor
- Tweak the Texture:
- If it’s a bit too thick, splash in more milk, and don’t forget to scrape down the blender sides for a smooth mix
- Crank Up the Power:
- Once the fruit’s broken down, blend on high for a full minute so everything turns super creamy and smooth
- Everything Goes In:
- Toss the banana, cherries, Greek yogurt, milk, and protein powder straight into your blender
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Frozen cherries are always my choice—they add deep flavor and lovely color. Making this never fails to remind me of those summer mornings when my kids and I would blend up smoothies on our way to the pool.
Keeping it Fresh
The smoothie is at its best right after blending, but if you end up with leftovers just pop it in a tightly sealed jar in the fridge for up to eight hours. If it thickens up, shake it well or just blend in a little extra milk before drinking.
Swaps and Options
Out of Greek yogurt? Regular or dairy-free yogurt works just fine. Almond or oat milk can stand in for fat-free milk, no problem. If vanilla protein powder’s not handy, chocolate can mix things up or just leave it out and tip in some vanilla extract instead.
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How to Serve It
Pour into a cold glass for a chilled treat or make it a breakfast bowl—top with sliced fruit, granola, or some nuts. Kids will love it as an after school pick-me-up too.
Fun Backstory
Blends like this are must-haves in kitchens that care about health. Mixing yogurt and fruit goes way back, but adding protein powder is a new spin. The classic duo of fruit and yogurt has stood the test of breakfast time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Go for fresh cherries if you want, just toss in some ice cubes so it’s nice and cold and thick.
- → Is there a non-dairy alternative for the yogurt and milk?
Definitely! Swap in non-dairy yogurt you like and use oat, almond, or soy milk. It'll still come out creamy.
- → How can I make this smoothie sweeter?
Add a squeeze of honey or maple, or drop in a couple of soft dates. Tweak to taste!
- → Can I prepare this smoothie ahead of time?
Blending it fresh is best, but go ahead and chill it for up to a day. Give it a good shake or stir before you drink.
- → What type of protein powder works best?
Vanilla goes awesome with the fruit, but use any kind you like. Or leave it out if it’s not your thing.
- → Can bananas be replaced with another fruit?
Yes, try mango or even avocado instead of banana—both will still give you that thick, smooth sip.