If you’re craving something delicious, nourishing, and downright satisfying, you have to try this Vegan Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake Recipe. It’s a fabulous blend of rich chocolate and tart cherries, combined with plant-based protein that fuels your body while delighting your taste buds. Whether it’s your post-workout treat or a quick breakfast fix, this shake is smooth, creamy, and packed with nutrients that keep you feeling energized and happy all day long.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this recipe comes from a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each one plays a vital role, adding depth of flavor, creamy texture, or natural sweetness, making this shake both delicious and satisfying.
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk: This forms the creamy base without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup frozen dark sweet cherries, pitted: Adds natural tartness and a beautiful deep red color, plus antioxidants.
- 1 scoop vegan chocolate protein powder: Your protein boost with a rich chocolate taste that makes the shake feel indulgent.
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds a lovely chocolatey aroma.
- 1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter: Brings creamy texture and a subtle nuttiness that balances the tart cherries.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet note.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup (optional): Adds gentle sweetness if you like your shake a bit sweeter.
- Pinch of salt: Elevates and rounds out the flavors so they shine.
How to Make Vegan Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake Recipe
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by making sure your frozen cherries are pitted and ready to go, and scoop out your protein powder and almond butter. Having everything prepped saves time and makes blending a breeze.
Step 2: Blend Everything Together
Place the almond milk, frozen cherries, vegan chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, almond butter, vanilla extract, maple syrup if using, and a pinch of salt into a high-speed blender. Blend for about 30 to 45 seconds until the mixture is silky smooth and creamy. This quick blending locks in that fresh, vibrant cherry flavor and rich chocolate aroma.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your shake a quick taste test. If you want it a little sweeter, add a touch more maple syrup and blend again briefly. You can also add a few ice cubes at this point if you want a thicker, colder shake.
Step 4: Serve Immediately
Pour your beautiful chocolate cherry creation into a glass and get ready to sip pure bliss. The shake is best enjoyed right away when all the flavors are fresh and the texture is perfect.
How to Serve Vegan Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake Recipe
Garnishes
Top your shake with a few whole cherries, a sprinkle of cocoa nibs, or a dusting of cinnamon for a charming presentation and an extra flavor boost. These little touches make your shake feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This protein shake pairs wonderfully with a light vegan muffin, fresh fruit salad, or even a crunchy granola bar to round out your breakfast or snack time perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your shake in a mason jar with a colorful straw for that fun, casual vibe, or layer it with vegan yogurt and granola in a parfait glass for a stunning, healthy treat. You can even freeze leftovers into popsicles for a refreshing twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any shake left (though you might not!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or stir before drinking, as some separation may occur.
Freezing
You can freeze the shake in ice cube trays for quick smoothie additions later on. Just pop a few cubes into a blender with more plant-based milk for a thick, refreshing treat anytime.
Reheating
This shake is best enjoyed cold and fresh, so reheating is not recommended. If you’d prefer something warm, it’s easier to whip up a fresh batch quickly instead.
FAQs
Can I use other plant-based milks in this shake?
Absolutely! Almond milk is a popular choice because of its neutral flavor, but oat, soy, or coconut milk all work beautifully and can subtly change the shake’s texture and taste.
What if I don’t have vegan chocolate protein powder?
No worries! You can substitute with plain vegan protein powder and add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder for that chocolate flavor, or use a chocolate-flavored plant-based protein you have on hand.
Is maple syrup necessary in the Vegan Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake Recipe?
The maple syrup is optional and used to add sweetness if you find the shake a bit tart from the cherries. Feel free to omit it or swap it for another sweetener like agave or date syrup.
Can I add extras like oats or chia seeds?
Definitely! Adding a tablespoon of oats or chia seeds is a fantastic way to boost fiber and make this shake even more filling and nutritious.
How thick should the shake be?
The texture is entirely up to you! If you want a thicker shake, use less plant-based milk or add ice cubes. For a thinner, more drinkable version, add a splash more milk until you hit the perfect consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, indulgent treat that nourishes your body and satisfies sweet cravings. I truly hope you give it a try and add this vibrant, creamy shake to your recipe rotation—it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in no time!
Print
Vegan Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Chocolate Cherry Protein Shake is a delicious and nutrient-packed smoothie perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout boost. Combining the rich flavors of dark cherries, chocolate protein, and almond butter, this shake offers a creamy texture and an energizing blend of plant-based protein and antioxidants. It’s easy to make, dairy-free, gluten-free, and ideal for anyone seeking a healthy, vegan-friendly beverage.
Ingredients
Shake Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or other plant-based milk
- 1/2 cup frozen dark sweet cherries, pitted
- 1 scoop vegan chocolate protein powder
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup, optional
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the almond milk, frozen cherries, vegan chocolate protein powder, cocoa powder, almond butter, vanilla extract, maple syrup if using, and a pinch of salt into a high-speed blender.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend all ingredients on high for about 30 to 45 seconds until the mixture is creamy and smooth with no chunks.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the shake and add more maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter, then blend briefly to combine.
- Serve: Pour the shake into a glass and enjoy immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a thicker shake, add a few ice cubes or reduce the amount of liquid milk.
- To boost fiber and sustained energy, consider adding oats or chia seeds before blending.
- You can substitute almond butter with peanut butter or any other nut/seed butter as preferred.
