Simple Chia and Cherry Smoothie with Chocolate

This delicious chia seed & chocolate cherry smoothie is a classic chocolate-cherries combination that blends together with your favorite yogurt, cacao powder, and chia seeds.

This yummy smoothie is a healthy dessert that may help you feel full longer and satisfy your sweet tooth. Many other smoothies can do that too, but not like this one! I recently found out that a smoothie place I like to enjoy added sugar to the smoothies I so loved. Why would someone need to do that when you can naturally sweeten with maple syrup and add vanilla in for that perfect touch of flavor?

Can I use alternative milk?

Of course you can! A few years ago I took an allergy test which showed I am dairy intolerant. Ever since then, I’ve tried to cut back on dairy products from cows, and instead have been using alternative milk in smoothies. Coconut milk, almond milk, and oat milk have been the options that I have been using, especially for smoothies. Feel free to substitute with any milk you like!
This recipe also calls for yogurt, for which you can use your favorite flavor.

Do I have to use frozen cherries?

Absolutely not! Delicious and fresh cherries are now in season, and using a cherry pitter makes it easy to prepare the cherries for a smoothie. I have tried this recipe with both frozen and fresh cherries and either option will make your smoothie deliciously tasty and filling. Really, the only difference you will notice is that the smoothie will be lighter or darker in color.

What other ingredients are in this recipe?

Cacao can help to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the brain and heart.

Chia seeds are loaded with antioxidants and fiber.

Vanilla extract contains antioxidants too, and makes a great flavoring addition!

Natural maple syrup  contains calcium and protects skin health.

And of course, cherries boost exercise recovery and yogurt is high in protein!

Here are some more unique and tasty smoothie recipes!

This 5 Minute Creamy Vanilla Blackberry Pie Smoothie makes bakery flavors using healthy ingredients!

A Healthy Caramel Smoothie Recipe is sweet, healthy, and perfect on the go!