Healthy Chocolate Cherry Smoothie: A Deliciously Disguised Green & Vegan Treat
Prepare to have your taste buds amazed with this incredible Chocolate Cherry Smoothie. It delivers all the rich, decadent flavor of a classic chocolate shake, yet it’s cleverly disguised as a powerhouse green smoothie! This easy-to-make, creamy vegan delight is loaded with nutrient-dense ingredients like cacao, leafy greens, and various superfoods. The best part? It’s so delicious, nobody will ever guess it’s incredibly healthy.
This post has been updated from the original, first published on July 20, 2019.
Calling all chocolate lovers and health enthusiasts! This recipe for a healthy chocolate cherry smoothie is truly a game-changer. It perfectly balances the indulgence of chocolate with a wealth of nutritional benefits, making it an ideal choice for any time of day. You’ll enjoy healthy fats from almond butter and omega-rich hemp seeds, an intensely satisfying chocolate flavor from raw cacao powder, natural sweetness from dates and frozen banana, and a powerful boost of antioxidants from leafy greens and juicy cherries. This smoothie is not just a drink; it’s a complete, nourishing meal in a glass.
If you have a sweet tooth, this Cherry Chocolate Smoothie recipe is exactly what you need to satisfy those cravings while simultaneously nourishing your body. It’s incredibly refreshing and deeply satisfying, especially when you’re yearning for that rich chocolate experience. What makes this “bad boy” even better is its versatility. You can enjoy this chocolate cherry smoothie for breakfast to kickstart your day with energy, as a fulfilling lunch, a revitalizing snack, or even a guilt-free dessert. On a hot evening, it can even serve as a light and cooling dinner option. A delicious smoothie truly has no season – it’s always a perfect choice!
Beyond its delicious taste, this smoothie offers numerous health benefits. Cherries are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties and high antioxidant content, aiding muscle recovery and promoting better sleep. Cacao, often called “nature’s chocolate,” is a powerhouse of flavanols, magnesium, and iron, known to boost mood and cardiovascular health. The inclusion of leafy greens like kale ensures you’re getting essential vitamins (K, A, C), minerals, and fiber, all crucial for overall well-being. Coupled with the protein and healthy fats from almond butter and hemp seeds, this smoothie will keep you feeling full, energized, and vibrant throughout your day.
Wholesome Ingredients and Smart Substitutions
Crafting a truly Healthy Chocolate Cherry Smoothie starts with simple, whole-food ingredients. Each component is chosen not only for its flavor but also for its significant nutritional contribution.
- Leafy Greens: These are the true unsung heroes of this smoothie, packed with an abundance of vitamins (especially K, A, and C), potent antioxidants, vital minerals, and dietary fiber. I often opt for curly green kale, but excellent alternatives include lacinato kale, collard greens, Swiss chard, baby spinach (which has a milder flavor, great for beginners), watercress, or even fresh parsley for an extra detoxifying kick. Don’t be shy with your greens; they blend seamlessly into the chocolatey goodness!
- Almond Butter: A fantastic source of healthy monounsaturated fats, protein, and vitamin E. When selecting almond butter, look for brands that list only one ingredient: almonds. This ensures you’re avoiding added sugars, oils, or preservatives. For those with nut allergies or simply looking for variety, feel free to substitute with creamy peanut butter, smooth cashew butter, or sun-butter (made from sunflower seeds), all of which will provide similar protein and healthy fat benefits, helping you stay full and satisfied for longer.
- Hemp Seeds: These small but mighty seeds are nutrient powerhouses, loaded with anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, plant-based protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc. They contribute to a creamy texture and offer a natural, sustained energy boost. If hemp seeds aren’t available, chia seeds or ground flax seeds make excellent substitutes, both providing similar omega-3s and fiber.
- Cherries: Bursting with flavor and health benefits, cherries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their vibrant red color and are known for their powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They also provide a good source of fiber, vitamin C, A, and E, along with potassium, magnesium, and calcium. While you can use fresh cherries, I highly recommend frozen cherries. Flash-frozen at the peak of their season, they retain all their nutritional value and intense cherry flavor, plus they add an icy thickness to your smoothie without the need for ice cubes.
- Cacao Powder: This is where the magic happens for the rich, decadent chocolate flavor! Raw cacao powder is not only delicious but also a fantastic “good mood food” due to its flavonoid content, which can improve blood flow to the brain and boost overall well-being. It’s also rich in magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, and selenium. It will effortlessly transform your smoothie into a delightful chocolate shake. If raw cacao is hard to find, unsweetened cocoa powder is a perfectly acceptable substitute, though it might have slightly fewer antioxidants due to processing.
- Banana: A ripe banana provides natural sweetness and acts as a superb natural thickener, giving your smoothie that wonderfully creamy consistency. For the best results and a colder smoothie without diluting the flavor, use a frozen banana. Simply peel and chop ripe bananas into chunks, then freeze them in an airtight container. If you’re looking to reduce sugar intake, half a frozen zucchini can be a surprising but effective substitute for thickness, with a much milder flavor than you might expect.
- Non-Dairy Milk: Any kind of milk will help achieve that extra creamy texture. I prefer using plant-based milk options like unsweetened almond milk, oat milk (for extra creaminess), or soy milk. Each offers a slightly different flavor profile and nutritional benefits. Almond milk is light and nutty, oat milk is subtly sweet and thick, and soy milk provides additional protein.
- Dates: These naturally sweet fruits are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health. They also contain essential minerals like potassium and magnesium, and their natural sugars provide a quick energy source. Dates also contribute to the luxurious texture of the smoothie, making it feel even more indulgent. Remember to pit them before blending!
How to Make This Dreamy Smoothie
Making this Chocolate Cherry Smoothie is incredibly simple and takes just minutes. The key is to add your ingredients in the right order for optimal blending. First, pour your non-dairy milk into the pitcher of your high-speed blender. This liquid base helps the blades catch all the ingredients efficiently. Next, add the softer ingredients like almond butter and cacao powder. Then, layer in the frozen components – frozen cherries and frozen banana – which provide the bulk and chill. Finally, add your leafy greens, hemp seeds, and pitted dates on top. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and wonderfully creamy. A powerful high-speed blender, like a Vitamix, makes this job effortless, ensuring there are no lingering chunks of greens or dates. If your smoothie is too thick, add a splash more milk; if it’s too thin, a few ice cubes or a bit more frozen fruit can fix it. Adjust sweetness to your liking by adding an extra date or a dash of maple syrup.
Debra’s Pro Tips for the Best Smoothie Experience
- Pre-Workout Power-Up or Post-Workout Recovery: This smoothie is an excellent companion for your fitness routine. Prepare it before you head to the gym and store it in the fridge. The carbohydrates from the banana and cherries provide quick energy, while the protein from hemp seeds and almond butter helps with muscle recovery. Give it a good shake and enjoy it to refuel in the most delicious and nutritious way possible!
- Frozen Smoothie Popsicles: For a fun, family-friendly, and healthy treat, pour any leftover healthy smoothie mixture into popsicle molds. Freeze for a few hours, and you’ll have a delightful frozen creamsicle treat that’s far healthier than store-bought versions. It’s perfect for kids and adults alike, especially on a warm day.
- Effortless Freezer Smoothie Packs: Streamline your morning routine by preparing freezer smoothie packs. Measure out your cherries, bananas (sliced), and greens, then place them in individual freezer bags. When you’re ready for a quick and healthy breakfast, simply dump the contents of one bag into your blender, add your liquid (milk and almond butter), and blend! This makes a truly easy and healthy breakfast, saving precious time on busy mornings.
- Transform into a Smoothie Bowl: If you’re craving a more substantial meal that you can eat with a spoon, adapt this easy smoothie recipe to create a delicious smoothie bowl. To achieve the thick, scoopable consistency required for a bowl, use all frozen fruit (perhaps an extra half banana or some frozen cauliflower for bulk), reduce the amount of almond milk significantly, and add a few ice cubes. Blend until very thick, then pour into a bowl and top with your favorite garnishes like granola, fresh berries, nuts, or an extra sprinkle of hemp seeds.
- Customize Your Sweetness and Thickness: Don’t be afraid to adjust the ingredients to suit your preference. If you prefer a less sweet smoothie, reduce the number of dates or omit them entirely, letting the natural sweetness of the banana and cherries shine. For a thinner smoothie, add more plant-based milk. For a thicker, more spoonable consistency, add more frozen fruit or a handful of ice cubes.
Optimal Smoothie Storage for Freshness and Nutrition
- Immediate Enjoyment is Best: For the absolute best taste, texture, and to maximize the nutritional benefits, it’s always ideal to drink your smoothie immediately after blending. This prevents oxidation and ensures you get the freshest possible experience.
- Short-Term Storage: If you have any extra smoothie, don’t let it go to waste! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. A small insulated lunch bag can also keep it cool if you’re taking it on the go. While it’s generally best consumed within 24 hours, it can typically last up to 48 hours without significant degradation of flavor or nutrients.
- Recommended Containers: I find that wide-mouth mason jars with tight-fitting lids are excellent for smoothie storage. The tight seal minimizes air exposure, which helps to preserve freshness. Before drinking any stored creamy smoothies, remember to shake them vigorously to re-emulsify any separated ingredients and restore their smooth consistency.
- Freezing for Longer Shelf Life: For longer storage, you can freeze leftover smoothie! Pour it into one-cup ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop a few cubes back into the blender with a splash of fresh liquid (water or non-dairy milk) and blend until smooth and refreshing again. This method is fantastic for meal prepping and ensures you always have a healthy option on hand.
Discover More Healthy Chocolate Recipes
If you’re like us and can’t get enough of delicious, healthy chocolate treats, you’re in for a treat! We believe that indulging in chocolate doesn’t have to mean compromising your health goals. Explore our collection of nutritious and satisfying chocolate-infused recipes that prove healthy can be incredibly tasty. From rich puddings to delightful baked goods, these recipes are designed to satisfy your chocolate cravings while providing beneficial ingredients. Each recipe is crafted to be wholesome, plant-based, and utterly delightful. Dive in and find your next favorite healthy chocolate indulgence!
- Vegan Chocolate Pudding Recipe
- Healthier Homemade Twix Bars
- White Bean Vegan Blondies
- Gluten-free Pumpkin Cake with Chocolate Frosting
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📖 Recipe
Chocolate Cherry Smoothie
Debra Klein
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Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana frozen into chunks
- 1 cup kale or other green
- 3 dates
- 1 cup frozen cherries
- 2 Tablespoons cacao powder
- 2 Tablespoons hemp seeds
- 1 Tablespoon almond butter**
- 1½ cups unsweetened almond milk**
Instructions
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Place all the listed ingredients into your high-speed blender. Ensure liquids are at the bottom for smoother blending. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and achieves a wonderfully creamy consistency.
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For the best flavor and nutritional benefits, enjoy your smoothie immediately. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for up to one day. Remember to shake well before drinking to restore its creamy texture.
Notes
** Did you know it’s super simple to make your own almond milk at home? Here’s a recipe for you to try! This ensures you have fresh, unsweetened almond milk for your smoothies and other recipes.
Nutrition
Note
The nutrition calculations were done using online tools. To obtain the most accurate representation of the nutritional information in any given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients you used. You are ultimately responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information is accurate, complete and useful.