There’s something special about Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo) the way the first cool sip can make a hot day slow down, or how a bowl at breakfast feels like a small celebration. It’s simple, creamy, and bright all at once, and it invites even beginner cooks to feel at home in the kitchen. If you enjoy straight-forward comfort recipes, this smoothie sits close to that same cozy spot in the menu as a trusty weeknight dish like creamy chicken and rice, but with a chilled, fruity twist.

Why You’ll Love Making This Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo)

This smoothie is a small, everyday luxury. It blends the tart sweetness of cherries with the familiar creaminess of banana and a whisper of almond and vanilla. It’s naturally free of dairy, grain, and refined sugars, so it works wonderfully for vegan and paleo needs without feeling like a compromise.

It’s also fast. Prep is mostly about rounding up ingredients and tossing them into a blender. That makes this a great breakfast, post-workout treat, or afternoon pick-me-up. The texture is satisfyingly thick like soft-serve, so you can spoon it from a bowl or sip it from a tall glass.

Pick this recipe when you want something that’s:

• Quick but special.
• Nutrient-dense without being heavy.
• Friendly to many dietary needs.
• Lovely to customize with what you have on hand.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo)

“Cooking isn’t about perfection. It’s about enjoying every delicious step.”

Overview
Before you start, set your frozen fruit on the counter for a couple minutes if it’s rock-hard. That little pause makes the blender’s job easier and helps you reach that velvety texture without overworking your appliance. You’ll need a sturdy blender or high-speed mixer to get it truly silky, though a strong countertop blender or an immersion blender in a tall jar can also do the job.

Directions: Cooking with Confidence

1. Gather and measure your ingredients. Having everything ready keeps the process smooth and relaxed. If you want a thicker bowl-like texture, use less liquid. If you want a sippable smoothie, add a touch more milk.
2. Add the softer ingredients first. Place the frozen banana pieces and the handful of spinach into the blender bowl. This gives the blades something to grab at the start.
3. Add the frozen cherries and riced cauliflower. The cherries give the flavor and color, and the frozen riced cauliflower adds bulk and creaminess without changing the taste. It’s a small trick that keeps the smoothie pale-friendly and filling.
4. Add your hemp seeds, almond butter (if using), protein powder, and hemp or chia seeds. These give the smoothie body and staying power. If your protein powder contains sweeteners, taste carefully before adding extracts.
5. Pour in a small splash of almond milk or milk of choice. Start with less than you think you need. You can always add more for the exact consistency you like.
6. Add a few drops of almond extract and a few drops of vanilla extract. These small touches go a long way for flavor they bring out the cherry notes and give a dessert-like aroma without sugar.
7. Add the ice cubes and cacao nibs. The ice helps the texture if your frozen fruit softened too much, and the cacao nibs give a gentle chocolate crunch that plays beautifully with cherries.
8. Blend on low to medium speed, then increase to high. Stop and scrape the sides if needed. Blend until super smooth, pausing to press any stubborn chunks down. If your blender struggles, add another splash of liquid and blend again.
9. Taste and adjust. If it needs more sweetness, a tiny drizzle of maple syrup or date paste works, but many cherries and ripe banana are sweet enough. If it’s too thick, add more almond milk a tablespoon at a time.
10. Serve immediately. Scoop into bowls or pour into glasses. Top with extra cacao nibs, a few whole cherries, or a sprinkle of flax or chia seeds for a pretty finish.
11. Enjoy right away for the best texture. The cold, creamy finish is part of the magic here, and it’s at its peak immediately after blending.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo)

1 frozen banana

• Ripe before freezing; makes the base creamy and naturally sweet.

1/3 cup frozen cherries

• Tart or sweet cherries both work; frozen preserves flavor and chill.

Almond milk (or milk of choice), as needed depending on desired thickness

• Unsweetened almond milk keeps sugars low and flavor clean.

A few drops of almond extract

• Use sparingly; it brings a marzipan note that pairs with cherries.

A few drops of vanilla extract

• Adds depth and a warm, familiar aroma.

1 tbsp hemp seeds

• Offers nutty flavor and a soft protein boost.

1 tbsp almond butter (optional)

• For extra creaminess and richness when you want a fuller mouthfeel.

2-3 ice cubes

• Keeps the texture frosty and refreshing.

1/4 cup frozen riced cauliflower

• Invisible creaminess: bulk and smoothness without changing flavor.

Handful of spinach

• Mild flavor and a vitamin boost; it tucks in without turning the color.

Protein powder (I use this one)

• Use your favorite plant-based powder for extra protein and structure.

Cacao nibs

• For crunchy chocolate notes and a lively flavor contrast.

Flax or chia seeds

• Add omega-3s and a slight nutty thickness; sprinkle or blend in.

Directions: Cooking with Confidence (Expanded Notes)

• If your banana is still fresh, slice and freeze it on a tray first. Frozen banana is the backbone of the ice cream-like texture here.
• Use pitted frozen cherries to prevent you or your blender from fighting a stone mid-blend.
• If your blender is not high-powered, pulse first to break down the larger chunks, then blend continuously. Pause often to stir with a spatula.

How to Serve Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo) and Make It Shine

Serve this smoothie in a wide bowl for a spoonable treat, or pour into a tall glass for sipping. For a bowl, add decorative toppings: a sprinkle of cacao nibs, a few fresh cherries, a dusting of ground flax, or a swirl of almond butter. For sipping, a straw and a few floating cacao nibs add charm.

Pair this smoothie with crunchy toast and nut butter for a brunch that balances creamy and crisp. It also pairs well with a small side salad if you are serving it as part of a light meal. For a more indulgent moment, top with coconut whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.

When plating, use contrasting colors. A shallow white bowl makes the smoothie’s rosy hue pop. If you’re sharing, divide into smaller bowls and top each differently so everyone can try a variation.

How to Store Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo) for Later

Smoothies are best fresh, but there are sensible ways to save time without losing too much quality.

Refrigerator short-term

• Store in an airtight jar for up to 24 hours. The texture will thin as the mixture sits. Before serving, stir well and, if necessary, add a splash of almond milk to regain creaminess.

Freezer for longer storage

• Pour into an ice cube tray or freezer-safe container and freeze solid. Frozen cubes can be re-blended quickly for a fast smoothie later. This method retains flavor and prevents waste.

Make-ahead components

• Freeze sliced bananas and cherries separately in small bags so you can assemble in minutes. Measure protein powder and seeds into single-serve jars for faster mornings.

Thawing and refreshing

• If frozen solid, thaw for 10 minutes at room temperature before re-blending. Blend with a splash of almond milk to bring it back to that creamy texture.

Avoid reheating

• This is a cold dish. Reheating changes the texture and taste, so refresh in the blender instead.

Clara’s Tips for Success

1. Use ripe bananas. The riper the banana before freezing, the sweeter and creamier your smoothie will be. If your banana has brown spots, it’s perfect for freezing.
2. Start with less liquid. It’s straightforward to thin the smoothie, but impossible to thicken without adding more ingredients. Add milk a tablespoon at a time.
3. Try the cauliflower trick. Frozen riced cauliflower packs creaminess and fiber without affecting the flavor. It’s a secret for a more satisfying texture.
4. Adjust extracts cautiously. A couple of drops of almond extract go a long way. Add a little, then taste.
5. If your blender struggles, chop frozen items into smaller pieces first, or allow them to rest for a minute to soften slightly.

Simple Variations to Try

Cherry Chocolate Ripple

• Add 1/2 tablespoon cocoa powder and a few extra cacao nibs. This makes a cherry-chocolate ribbon through the creamy base.

Green Boost

• Increase spinach and add 1/4 avocado for extra green creaminess. You’ll have a vibrant, nutrient-dense version.

Nut-Free Option

• Replace almond milk and almond butter with coconut milk and sunflower seed butter. This keeps the richness but removes tree nuts.

Berry Mix

• Swap half the cherries for raspberries or strawberries. The flavor brightens and the smoothie keeps the same texture.

Citrus Kick

• Add a teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. It wakes up the cherry flavor and balances sweetness beautifully.

Protein-Packed Post-Workout

• Use a higher-protein powder and a tablespoon more hemp seeds. This turns the smoothie into a more restorative snack.

Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie

A creamy and refreshing vegan and paleo smoothie that combines tart cherries, banana, and a hint of almond and vanilla for a delightful treat any time of day.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Servings: 2 servings

Course: Breakfast, Snack

Cuisine: American, Paleo, Vegan

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Main Ingredients

• 1 piece frozen banana Ripe before freezing; makes the base creamy and naturally sweet.
• 1/3 cup frozen cherries Tart or sweet cherries both work; frozen preserves flavor and chill.
• 1/4 cup frozen riced cauliflower Invisible creaminess: bulk and smoothness without changing flavor.
• 1 handful spinach Mild flavor and a vitamin boost; it tucks in without turning the color.
• 1 tablespoon hemp seeds Offers nutty flavor and a soft protein boost.
• 1 tablespoon almond butter Optional for extra creaminess and richness.
• 2-3 cubes ice Keeps the texture frosty and refreshing.
• 1 splash almond milk (or milk of choice) As needed depending on desired thickness.
• a few drops almond extract Use sparingly; it brings a marzipan note that pairs with cherries.
• a few drops vanilla extract Adds depth and a warm, familiar aroma.
• 1 tablespoon cacao nibs For crunchy chocolate notes.
• 1 tablespoon flax or chia seeds Add omega-3s and a slight nutty thickness.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Gather and measure your ingredients. If you want a thicker texture, use less liquid; for a sippable smoothie, add more milk.
2. Add the softer ingredients first: frozen banana pieces and spinach.
3. Add the frozen cherries and riced cauliflower to the blender.
4. Add hemp seeds, almond butter, protein powder, and hemp or chia seeds.
5. Pour in a small splash of almond milk, adding more for desired consistency.
6. Add almond and vanilla extracts.
7. Add ice cubes and cacao nibs.
8. Blend until super smooth, stopping to scrape sides as needed.
9. Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness with maple syrup or more milk.
10. Serve immediately in bowls or glasses. Top with extras if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 6gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 50mgFiber: 7gSugar: 15g

Notes

Smoothies are best fresh. Store in an airtight jar for up to 24 hours or freeze for longer storage. Avoid reheating; refresh in a blender instead.

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FAQs About Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo)

A few extra reassurance notes

• If the smoothie is too thin, add more frozen fruit rather than ice to thicken without diluting the flavor.
• Taste as you go. Small adjustments are easier to get right than big ones.

Real-World Advice from Clara’s Kitchen

When I teach friends how to make smoothies, I watch them hesitate over extracts and protein choices. My friendly rule is this: start simple. A great base of frozen banana and cherries carried by a gentle amount of milk is already a winner. Think of the other ingredients as options that personalize the recipe to your taste and needs.

If your blender isn’t high-powered, work in short bursts. Pulse, shake the jar or container, and give the blades a rest. Blenders can heat up if they grind too long. With frozen fruit, it’s all about patience and short, confident pulses.

If you’re entertaining and want to impress, make a build-your-own smoothie bowl station. Offer a few topping choices like cacao nibs, toasted coconut, sliced almonds, berries, and a jar of almond butter. Guests love assembling their own bowls, and it’s a fun way to show off how flexible this Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo) can be.

Timing and Texture Tips

For the creamiest texture, use a frozen banana that was fully ripe when frozen. Slice it before freezing so the blender has more edges to bite into. If you prefer a sorbet-like firmness, reduce the milk and add more frozen fruit. To make a drinking smoothie, add milk gradually until it flows easily through a straw.

If you’re meal-prepping, freeze single-serve portions in wide-mouth jars. When you’re ready, add a bit of warm water or milk and blend briefly the contrast of warm and cold can help the blades start without jamming.

Ingredient Spotlights

Cherries

• Cherries are naturally tart and fragrant. They add a lovely color and tang. Darker cherries like Bing are richer, while Rainier cherries are sweeter and subtler. Frozen cherries maintain their flavor well.

Riced cauliflower

• This ingredient is mild and blends into the texture without tasting like vegetables. It makes the smoothie feel more substantial and keeps the recipe paleo-friendly.

Hemp seeds and chia/flax

• These are small but mighty. They add healthy fats and a gentle thickness. If you are sensitive to seeds, blend them well to avoid grittiness.

Cacao nibs

• These add texture and a hint of bitterness that pairs beautifully with cherries. Use sparingly for a balanced crunch.

Clara’s Shortcuts

• Freeze bananas in single-layer banana coins on a tray before bagging to prevent chunks from sticking together.
• Pre-portion your seeds and protein powder into small jars or bags so mornings are faster.
• If you like your smoothie extra cold and your blender struggles, use chilled almond milk straight from the fridge and slightly softened frozen fruit rather than fully rock-hard pieces.

Kitchen Confidence Notes

You don’t need a perfect day or a fancy gadget to make something delicious. This recipe rewards good instincts: taste, tweak, and trust simple adjustments. If something goes off, it’s usually fixable with one simple swap or addition, and almost everything in this recipe is forgiving.

Final Encouragement or Closing Note

I hope this Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo) helps you discover how simple and rewarding homemade cooking can be. You’ve got this.

Conclusion

If you’d like to see another take with a slightly different ingredient list and inspiration, check out the original Cherry Ice Cream Smoothie (vegan, paleo) recipe for helpful comparisons. For a richer, more dessert-like frozen treat that still fits similar dietary needs, take a look at this inventive Roasted Cherry Cardamom Ice Cream (Paleo, Vegan, Dairy-Free) for ideas you can borrow back into your smoothie.