Okay so there are no actual chocolate covered cherries in this smoothie, it just tastes that way. Be sure to use sweet cherries instead of sour to get that authentic chocolate covered cherry taste. They should be dark, dark red, if they have more of a fire engine red, they’re sour don’t really work as well here. Vanilla yogurt works best here, although plain works in a pinch. You can add a tsp of vanilla extract in addition to give it that extra boost. Dates give sweetness to the cocoa powder, although I’ve left them out and found that I actually like it better. It just depends on how sweet you like it. Be sure to use the best unsweetened cocoa powder you can find for the best chocolaty flavor; sweetened ones often have too much sugar and artificial flavors.
Did you know: This smoothie is super high in antioxidants and fiber. Both the dark color cherries and cocoa powder contribute to that. Cocoa powder is made when cocoa beans are pressed until all the cocoa butter remains. What is left is the fiber and antioxidants. There are two types you’ll typically find, natural and Dutch process. If you are using it for baking, there is a difference as they react to leaveners differently, but in something such as this, it doesn’t matter, so use whatever you have on hand. The natural, although lighter in color will have a more chocolaty flavor but either will do.
Ingredients:
1 cup milk of your choice
1 banana (not frozen)
1 cup of frozen sweet cherries
1-2 dates, pitted
2-3 tbsp unsweetened coco powder
1/2 cup vanilla or plain yogurt
Directions:
Add milk to your blender followed by your cocoa powder. Add banana, yogurt and cherries on top. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into glasses, garnish with additional cocoa powder if desired.
(makes 2 servings)
