Cherry-Coded Holiday Smoothie Bowl (Print)

Vibrant bowl with cherries, pomegranate, granola, and festive toppings for a nourishing breakfast or snack.

# Components:

→ Smoothie Base

01 - 1½ cups frozen cherries
02 - 1 frozen banana
03 - ½ cup Greek yogurt
04 - ¼ cup unsweetened pomegranate juice
05 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
06 - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1 teaspoon chia seeds

→ Toppings

08 - ¼ cup pomegranate arils
09 - ¼ cup granola
10 - 2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut flakes
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios or almonds
12 - Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

# Method:

01 - In a high-speed blender, combine frozen cherries, frozen banana, Greek yogurt, pomegranate juice, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, and chia seeds. Process until the mixture achieves a smooth and creamy consistency, pausing to scrape down the sides of the blender container as necessary.
02 - Divide the blended smoothie mixture evenly between two serving bowls, using a spoon to create a uniform and thick layer in each.
03 - Artfully arrange the pomegranate arils, granola, coconut flakes, and chopped nuts on the surface of each smoothie bowl.
04 - If desired, garnish with fresh mint leaves. Present the smoothie bowls immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal prep
  • Perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors
  • Customizable with your favorite seasonal toppings
  • Packed with antioxidants and nutrients
02 -
  • High in antioxidants from cherries and pomegranate
  • Can be prepared the night before for quicker morning assembly
  • Naturally sweetened with minimal added sugars
  • Perfect for holiday brunches or Christmas morning
03 -
  • Freeze your serving bowls for 15 minutes before adding the smoothie mixture to keep everything perfectly chilled and prevent premature melting. This trick has saved countless presentations when serving to guests.
  • When selecting pomegranates, choose ones that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness. The exterior should have a leathery appearance without soft spots. I've found the water method for removing arils is cleanest—simply break apart the pomegranate underwater to prevent juice splatter.
  • For the most vibrant presentation, create your smoothie bowl in natural light if possible. The deep ruby tones truly shine in morning sunlight, making this not just a delicious breakfast but also an Instagram-worthy holiday moment that captures the joy of the season.