This shake is thick, chocolatey, a little tart from the cherries, and packed with plant-based protein.
It’s one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something quick, sweet, and energizing without any fuss.
You just toss everything in a blender, blend, and you’re done in under 5 minutes.
Great for breakfast, post-workout, or even dessert.
Why I Love This Recipe
I came up with this recipe after a workout one summer afternoon when I was craving a smoothie that felt more like a treat but still gave me energy and protein. This one hit all the right notes.
- No dairy, no problem — still super creamy
- Just the right combo of sweet + tart
- Keeps me full for hours
- Only takes 5 minutes and uses stuff I always have in the freezer
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup frozen dark sweet cherries
- 1 frozen banana (peeled before freezing)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- 1 scoop vegan chocolate protein powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
Pro Tips
- Freeze your bananas in advance with the peel removed. It makes blending way easier.
- Use a high-speed blender to get a super smooth texture.
- Add more almond milk if you like it thinner or more ice for a thicker shake.
- If your protein powder is sweetened, skip adding any extra sweetener.
- Want a caffeine boost? Add a shot of cold brew.
Tools You’ll Need
- High-speed blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Silicone spatula (optional, for scraping)
- Glass or bowl for serving
Substitutions and Variations
- No almond milk? Use oat, soy, or cashew milk.
- Nut-free? Swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter.
- Use frozen strawberries or raspberries instead of cherries for a twist.
- Add spinach or chia seeds for extra nutrition.
- Make it dessert-y by adding a few dark chocolate chips on top.
Make Ahead Tips
You can portion all the ingredients (except milk and ice) into freezer bags ahead of time. Just dump into the blender with almond milk and ice when ready.
Recipe + Instructions
Makes: 1 large shake or 2 small servings
Time: 5 minutes
Step 1: Add Frozen Cherries and Banana to Blender
Add 1 cup frozen dark sweet cherries and 1 frozen banana (cut in half) into your blender.
Step 2: Add Cocoa Powder and Almond Butter
Scoop in 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon of almond butter.
Step 3: Add Protein Powder and Vanilla
Add 1 scoop of vegan chocolate protein powder and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Step 4: Pour in Almond Milk and Add Ice
Pour in 1 cup unsweetened almond milk and drop in 1/2 cup ice cubes.
Step 5: Blend Until Smooth
Blend everything on high until smooth and creamy (about 30–45 seconds).
Step 6: Pour and Serve
Pour the smoothie into a glass or bowl and top with a few frozen cherries and a dusting of cocoa powder.
Leftovers and Storage
This shake is best fresh, but if you have leftovers, keep them in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake well before drinking — it might separate a bit.
Macros (Approximate per 1 large serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 7g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Frozen fruit = creaminess without needing ice cream or yogurt
- Protein powder + almond butter = filling and balanced macros
- Cocoa powder + cherries give a rich chocolate flavor with natural tart-sweet balance
- Banana adds sweetness and thick texture with no added sugar
Common Mistakes
- Using unfrozen fruit — it’ll be too runny
- Overloading the blender — stick to the ratios
- Skipping protein powder — this changes the flavor and balance
- Adding too much ice — can make it watery and dull the taste
What to Serve With
- A slice of whole grain toast with peanut butter
- Vegan breakfast muffins
- A handful of almonds for crunch
- A piece of dark chocolate if you’re feeling fancy
FAQ
Can I use fresh cherries?
Yes, but it won’t be as cold or thick unless you add more ice.
Can I use regular milk?
Sure! Any milk works here.
Can I skip the banana?
You can, but the texture and sweetness will change. Add a date or two to replace the sweetness.
Is this good after a workout?
Absolutely — lots of protein, carbs, and nutrients to help you refuel.
Final Thoughts
This vegan chocolate cherry protein shake is proof that healthy can taste like dessert. It’s fast, easy, and keeps you full and happy. If you give it a try, let me know how it turned out or what twist you added. I’d love to hear your version!
