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Home » Smoothies

Healthy Cherry Smoothie

Published on 12.15.2021 by Jen Hansard

RECIPE CARD LEAVE REVIEW
cherry smoothie

Looking for a smoothie with a lower glycemic index? Look no further than this cherry smoothie recipe made with just four plant-based simple ingredients.

My family loves cherries and we can't get enough of them. Of course, nothing beats fresh cherries, but frozen ones are often more affordable and can be used year-round.

Cherry Smoothie Recipe

If you want a quick and nourishing smoothie then this four-ingredient one is an easy win:

  1. Blend kale and canned coconut milk until smooth.
  2. Add remaining ingredients and blend again until smooth.

Make sure you pit the cherries before adding them to the blender (I often buy frozen so I can skip this step!). Make sure at least one fruit is frozen to enjoy a refreshingly cool smoothie. Feel free to add in a plant-based protein powder to up the protein and fiber and turn this cherry smoothie into a complete breakfast.

Ingredient Swaps

If kale is a bit too strong for you, swap it out for the leafy green of your choice. All kinds of berries are low in sugar and have antioxidants, so you can use mixed berries or any other berry combo you want.

If you need less fat, use a light canned coconut, or carton coconut milk. Just know that this smoothie might not be as thick with carton coconut milk.

berry smoothie recipe

Antioxidant powerhouse

Free radicals are chemicals that can damage our bodies' cells. While we can fight these free radicals with stuff already inside the body, we also rely on antioxidants from food to help in the fight.

Antioxidant supplements tout all kinds of miraculous properties, yet I believe in getting them in through plants like kale and cherries.

Cherry Smoothie FAQs

What goes well with cherries?

I paired kale with cherries in this smoothie because they compliment each other so well, a little tart and a little sweet. Coconut milk also goes well with cherries, drawing out the natural sweetness of the coconut.

How do you blend cherries?

Make sure your cherries are pitted before blending (no need to blend the pits!). You can use fresh or frozen cherries. If you don't have a high powered blender, make sure the cherries are thawed a bit before blending. Cherries actually blend quite well!

Can I put whole cherries into a blender?

I don't recommend it. The cherry pits will probably harm your blender blades, and you don't really want to eat them. Pit the cherries before blending or just buy frozen, already pitted cherries to save a bit of time.

healthy cherry beverage

More Berry Smoothies

If you loved this cherry smoothie recipe then you'll love these berry smoothies as well!

  • Blackberry smoothie
  • Strawberry watermelon smoothie
  • Raspberry smoothie
  • Strawberry blueberry layered smoothie
  • Blueberry spinach smoothie
  • Strawberry smoothie
  • Elderberry smoothie cubes
  • Red velvet smoothie
  • Spinach berry smoothie
  • Strawberry banana smoothie
  • Cherry collagen smoothie
  • Berry smoothie
  • Carrot strawberry smoothie
  • Blueberry smoothie
  • Strawberry mango smoothie
  • Chocolate covered cherry smoothie
  • Cranberry smoothie
  • Mixed berry smoothie
  • Berry banana smoothie
  • Chocolate strawberry smoothie
  • Cherry beet smoothie

So many options, how are you going to choose? Give my cherry smoothie a blend, then get ready to buy bulk fruit next time it goes on sale. You've got smoothies to blend.

plant based smoothie

Sweet vs Tart Cherries

Tart cherries are, well, tart, and sweet cherries are sweet. Another distinction is that sweet cherries tend to be bigger and a deeper, darker red, where as tart cherries are brighter red and small. Both are high in antioxidants and great to use in smoothies.

Most studies regarding the health benefits of cherries have been conducted using Montmorency cherries, the most common variety of tart cherries. The cherries, fresh, frozen or dried and their juice can help with muscle recovery after intense physical activity.

Both types of cherries contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that we associate with sleep. It is a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, both of which help with mood and sleep. Tryptophan supplementation has been shown to reduce irritability, PMS, depression and anxiety.

When blending this cherry smoothie, it's truly up to you which type of cherry you use. All of them are winners in our book!

cherry smoothie recipe

Low Glycemic Fruits for Smoothies

Berries and cherries are low glycemic foods, meaning that eating them won't drastically affect blood sugar levels. These fruits are naturally lower in sugar and high in fiber, which also keeps blood sugar levels steady. Low sugar fruits include:

  • Cherries
  • Grapefruit
  • Apricots
  • Limes
  • Lemons
  • Nectarines
  • Peaches
  • Strawberries
  • Dates
  • Pears
  • Apples
  • Oranges
  • Plums
  • Blueberries
  • Grapes
  • Kiwi
  • Prunes

Fun fact: Bananas are often though of as high on the glycemic index, but they are actually considered low glycemic with an index score of 55. (Anything 55 and under is considered low glycemic.)

Tropical fruits tend to be high on the glycemic index. Pineapple, figs, cantaloupe, watermelon and guava are especially high in sugars.

Healthy Cherry Smoothie

4.43 from 33 votes
Rate this Recipe Print Recipe
Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats, which helps curb your appetite and give you energy. The berries and cherries lower the glycemic index making it a great after dinner treat. This Healthy Cherry Smoothie is a great breakfast.
Total Time5 minutes
Servings1

Ingredients

  • 1 cup kale
  • 1 cup coconut milk (canned or carton)
  • 1 cup cherries
  • ½ cup blueberries

Instructions

  • Blend kale and coconut milk together until smooth.
  • Add remaining fruit and blend again.

Notes

  • Use at least one frozen fruit to make the smoothie cold or serve over ice.
  • Can substitute cherries + blueberries with any berries or a mixed berry blend.
  • Swap out the kale with another leafy green like spinach.
  • Use canned coconut milk for a creamier smoothie with healthy fat, use carton coconut milk for a lighter smoothie with less healthy fat. 

Nutrition (estimated)

Calories: 607kcal (30%) Carbohydrates: 45g (15%) Protein: 9g (18%) Fat: 49g (75%) Saturated Fat: 43g (269%) Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g Monounsaturated Fat: 2g Sodium: 56mg (2%) Potassium: 1190mg (34%) Fiber: 5g (21%) Sugar: 25g (28%) Vitamin A: 6822IU (136%) Vitamin C: 100mg (121%) Calcium: 164mg (16%) Iron: 9mg (50%)
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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jenny

    March 16, 2022 at 1:25 pm

    What would be the best can coconut milk to use?

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      March 17, 2022 at 5:29 pm

      Great question, I'd def use canned coconut milk if you don't mind a little extra fat and calories, but it makes the smoothest, best tasting smoothies! If you're concerned about the fat and calories then go with the carton of coconut milk. Of if you are feeling adventurous check out our DIY recipe! DIY Coconut Milk

  2. Michele

    July 04, 2021 at 12:09 pm

    5 stars
    Delicious and refreshing. I used spinach in place of the kale since I'm a green smoothie newbie. Will be brave and try the kale next time.

    Reply
  3. Janice

    June 10, 2021 at 3:23 pm

    5 stars
    Excellent!

    Reply
  4. Megan

    January 24, 2021 at 3:09 pm

    5 stars
    This was a hit with my Caribbean hubby and my seven year old daughter - and me! I doubled the recipe and heard them slurping while I was still rinsing out the blender! I loved that it made me feel really full. Can’t wait to explore more recipes here.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      January 26, 2021 at 11:29 am

      Aw! That's awesome Megan! We're so glad you're blending with us. 🙂

  5. Bevin Engman

    January 13, 2021 at 9:27 am

    5 stars
    SO delicious and satisfying!! I'm new to smoothies but stumbled onto your website about 6 weeks ago to help with digestion issues. I've had one of your smoothies every day for almost a month now. Honestly, it's becoming a way of life - a healthy lifeI feel great, issues are resolved - my 90 year old mom has a little too every day. We love them - thanks for all your hard work and shared recipes...I'm a huge fan!

    One question though: I read in the comments that when you list "coconut milk", you are referring to regular canned coconut milk. I love the creamy flavor it, but 1 cup is listed as nearly 500 calories. I noticed that this smoothie's nutrition has 16 ounces listed at 167 calories. Are you using a different kind of coconut milk here? Can you clarify for me.? Thanks again for everything 🙂

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      January 15, 2021 at 7:30 am

      So glad your loving the smoothie life, Bevin!! For this recipe we used our own homemade coconut milk, which is 100 calories per cup. Check out how to make your own coconut milk here :: How to Make Coconut Milk

    • Bevin

      January 15, 2021 at 9:20 pm

      Terrific - I'll take a look. Thanks again'

  6. Brandee

    May 25, 2020 at 10:57 am

    5 stars
    Hi! I'm just getting into the world of smoothies and came upon your site as a beginner's way to dive into this world on how to get started. I happened to have all the ingredients for your Cherry Smoothie, and wanted to give it a try. Not that I expected it to be bad, BUT--I didn't expected to be as good as it was!

    I love all of the nutritional info you provide on your site per smoothie. It makes me feel extremely comfortable and confident that I am making smoothies that can both complement and supplement meals. I'm looking forward to trying them all! Thank you for creating such a wonderful resource.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      May 25, 2020 at 11:51 am

      Welcome, Brandee! So glad you found us. 😀

  7. Sue

    March 17, 2020 at 8:30 pm

    Looks delicious. Guess what I'm having for breakfast tomorrow!

    I'm intrigued that dates are considered to be low sugar. I often see them used for a refined sugar substitute.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      March 19, 2020 at 11:45 am

      Hi Sue! Dates have a low GI (glycemic index), which means they're less likely to spike your blood sugar levels, unlike refined sugars. Enjoy your breakfast smoothie!

  8. Lissette

    February 28, 2020 at 3:11 pm

    Hi
    Need a receipt for Increasing
    White blood cell count
    I had a auto immune disorder

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 28, 2020 at 9:30 pm

      Hi Lissette, we have many great smoothies you can make for all kinds of requirements but I think that would be something you'll want to speak with a nutritionist about.

  9. Cathi

    February 23, 2020 at 4:24 pm

    5 stars
    I buy huge bunches of kale every week at my farmers market in the summer. It's a huge bunch and I freeze Ziploc bags of it. I do the same thing with watermelon. I have enjoyed these all winter long

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 24, 2020 at 11:51 am

      Cathi, what a great idea!! I wish I had enough room in my freezer to do that.

  10. Bea

    February 23, 2020 at 10:56 am

    When you use coconut milk, is it from the can or a coconut milk drink in a carton like almond milk? Thanks.
    Smoothie sounds so good.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 24, 2020 at 11:51 am

      Hi Bea! We usually prefer to use the full-fat coconut milk from a can but you can use either. It really depends on personal preference. 🙂

  11. Helen Thadathil

    January 05, 2020 at 9:56 am

    4 stars
    Tried that! I am loving smoothies again.
    Thanks Jen

    Reply
  12. Caroine

    January 22, 2019 at 12:23 am

    Good smoothie, loved the cherries! Will use the tip on freezing kale next time.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 22, 2019 at 2:28 pm

      Hey Caroine,

      Yay! Freezing your greens makes life so much easier in the smoothie world.

      Happy blending!

  13. Colette Eirich

    January 21, 2019 at 12:32 am

    This was a good one. Used less kale. Seem to get a tummy ache if too much greens

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 22, 2019 at 2:27 pm

      Hey Colette,

      Kale can sometimes be hard on your digestive system if you are not use to eating it. I would suggest to do half kale and half spinach in the beginning. Also make sure you are removing the stems from your kale. That is the bitter part that might be too intense for your stomach right now.

  14. Carol

    January 20, 2019 at 7:08 pm

    5 stars
    Another good smoothie. I love cherries!

    Reply
  15. Anita

    January 20, 2019 at 6:05 pm

    5 stars
    This was my Sunday smoothie in which I used pineapple intsread of blueberry added half an avocado and some flaxseed, yum

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 22, 2019 at 2:24 pm

      Hey Anita,

      Love how you built off this recipe and made it into your freestyle!!

  16. Theresa

    January 20, 2019 at 5:53 pm

    5 stars
    This is one of my favs. So creamy, cherry cola flavored,yummy in the yummy green smoothie
    Easy to make, was gone like magic!

    Reply
  17. Jennifer

    January 20, 2019 at 4:14 pm

    5 stars
    Loving the cherries in this smoothie! I would never have even considered cherries in a smoothie until I tried SGS. Such a rich flavour and colour!! Yummy!!

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 22, 2019 at 2:23 pm

      Yay for trying new things!!!

      Cheers!

  18. Valerie W

    January 19, 2019 at 11:16 am

    5 stars
    Love cherries in a smoothie! This was a good one.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 22, 2019 at 2:22 pm

      Thanks Valerie,

      SO glad you loved this recipe!!

      Happy blending!

  19. Philippa

    January 18, 2019 at 11:27 pm

    I like this. It's nice and fresh and just slightly sweet.

    Reply
  20. Mireille

    January 18, 2019 at 7:50 pm

    3 stars
    Not a favourite of mine. I believe the kale overpowers the cherries and blueberries too much. Might add more cherries to boost the flavour next time.

    Reply
  21. Joyce Moy

    January 18, 2019 at 12:23 pm

    4 stars
    I usually like cherries by themselves but not really a fan of cherry foods or drinks. But I really liked this smoothie even though you could taste each of the different ingredients.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      February 22, 2019 at 2:21 pm

      Hey Joyce,

      I am so glad that even though you don't usually like cherry flavored recipes, this one was a hit for you!

  22. Tanya

    January 17, 2019 at 12:25 am

    5 stars
    I love cherries! Great recipe for a delicious, healthy green smoothie, thanks!!

    Reply
  23. Tanya

    January 17, 2019 at 12:23 am

    5 stars
    I love cherries ! Great recipe for a delicious, healthy green smoothie, thanks!!

    Reply
  24. Cristina

    January 17, 2019 at 12:06 am

    Oops! I guess I should have blended, used spinach, had to use up, instead of kale. I used frozen cherries and blueberries, I loved! The flavour cut but found the coconut milk very thick! It’s my first time having coconut milk, I usually have almond, I had to add coconut water for my blender to blend it

    Reply
  25. Darlene

    January 16, 2019 at 11:28 pm

    4 stars
    I love cherries I just dont think the frozen ones I used were very sweet. I will try this one again

    Reply
  26. Patricia

    January 16, 2019 at 7:58 pm

    4 stars
    Love having a smoothie with cherries! Very mild, no bitter taste from the kale.

    Reply
  27. Beth

    January 16, 2019 at 7:46 pm

    5 stars
    This is a great antioxidant-rich smoothie! Really enjoyed it!

    Reply
  28. Molly

    January 16, 2019 at 6:23 pm

    4 stars
    It was good but not my fav.

    Reply
  29. Bethany Vines

    January 16, 2019 at 5:25 pm

    5 stars
    This is probably my favorite so far! I used part coconut milk, part coconut water since the coconut milk was too strong last time.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      January 22, 2019 at 1:00 pm

      Way to adjust the recipe to make it work for you. Thank you for sharing!!

  30. Cecily

    January 16, 2019 at 4:39 pm

    This smoothie was nice and creamy, however not my favorite, but not bad.

    Reply
  31. Kelly

    January 16, 2019 at 3:17 pm

    3 stars
    LOve the cherry taste. I made an extra to put in the freezer for later in the week

    Reply
  32. Anita

    January 16, 2019 at 3:11 pm

    4 stars
    Four stars-a bit to sweet for me yet refreshing

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      January 22, 2019 at 12:23 pm

      Hey Anita,

      If it is too sweet for you, you can always swap the measurements for the fruits and veggies.

      Hope that helps!

  33. Steph

    January 16, 2019 at 2:44 pm

    5 stars
    Major love from my whole family today. It tastes like a cherry cola float!! Definitely making this smoothie again.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      January 22, 2019 at 12:22 pm

      I love how you described this one. You are exactly right!! 🙂

  34. Bonnie

    January 16, 2019 at 2:38 pm

    4 stars
    I didn't have cherries so used raspberry/blackberry combo. It was good but probably better with the cherries.

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      January 22, 2019 at 12:22 pm

      Hey Bonnie,

      SO glad you were able to make this work with what you had on hand!

  35. Donna Steinman

    January 16, 2019 at 1:56 pm

    3 stars
    I liked it but I think I prefer spinach in my smoothies.

    Reply
  36. Shari C

    January 16, 2019 at 12:58 pm

    5 stars
    Really, Really enjoyed this one!
    My favorite non-green smoothie so far.

    Reply
  37. Cory

    January 16, 2019 at 12:19 pm

    3 stars
    It was good..still not sure how I feel about the kale! Might try it with spinach next time!

    Reply
    • Simple Green Smoothies

      January 22, 2019 at 12:20 pm

      Hey Cory,

      Make sure you are pick the stems off the kale leaves to avoid that bitter taste. If you prefer to not use the kale spinach is perfectly fine!

  38. Amber

    January 16, 2019 at 11:08 am

    3 stars
    This smoothie was good but not my
    favorite.

    Reply
  39. Pamela LaBouve

    January 16, 2019 at 9:05 am

    5 stars
    Love the smoothies, today mine is a combo of blueberries raspberries and blackberries though since I didn't have cherries. Definitely loving this daily habit!

    Reply
  40. Liz

    January 16, 2019 at 8:25 am

    3 stars
    Not bad, I love cherries, just not sure if I'm a fan of them in smoothies. This one seemed to lack the creaminess others have.

    Reply
  41. Brittani Kendrick

    January 16, 2019 at 7:40 am

    5 stars
    Tastes great! Half way done! Feel great with this simple change of a green smoothie a day!

    Reply
  42. Laura Peters

    January 15, 2019 at 10:41 am

    5 stars
    Coconut milk and cherries!! Loved this one !!

    Reply
  43. Patricia Hinshaw

    January 15, 2019 at 10:16 am

    Love the smoothies it a winner in itself. Thanks

    Reply

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Jen hansard blogger at Simple Green Smoothies About

I'm Jen Hansard, mom of two, plant-based foodie, adventure junkie + cookbook author.

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