If you’re searching for a healthy smoothie recipe that’s both nutritious and unexpectedly delicious, this Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie is a recipe you’ll want to try. Sweet cherries, ripe bananas, hearty black beans, and juicy blood oranges blend together into a creamy, vibrant drink that’s naturally rich in fiber, plant-based protein, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Bananas create a silky-smooth texture while cherries add a naturally sweet, slightly tart flavor. Black beans blend in beautifully, boosting the smoothie with protein and fiber without overpowering the fruit. Blood oranges provide bright citrus notes and a gorgeous ruby-red color, making every sip refreshing and flavorful.
Ready in just five minutes, this easy homemade smoothie is naturally vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and made without added sugar. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a healthy afternoon snack, or after a workout, it’s a satisfying way to fuel your day with wholesome ingredients. If you enjoy filling morning smoothies, you’ll also love this Breakfast Shake for another nutritious way to start your day.
What Is a Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie?
A Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie is a creamy fruit smoothie made with cooked black beans, sweet cherries, ripe bananas, and fresh blood oranges blended until smooth. While black beans may seem like an unusual smoothie ingredient, they have a mild flavor that pairs surprisingly well with fruit while adding extra protein, fiber, and creaminess.
If you’ve never tried a black bean smoothie, you’ll be surprised by how creamy and naturally sweet it becomes once blended with fruit.
The combination of naturally sweet bananas and cherries balances the bright citrus flavor of blood oranges, creating a refreshing smoothie with a rich, velvety texture. Black beans make the drink more filling and nutritious without changing the fruity taste, making it an excellent choice for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a healthy meal on busy days.
Unlike many store-bought smoothies that contain added sugars or artificial ingredients, this homemade version relies entirely on whole fruits and beans for natural sweetness, flavor, and lasting nutrition.
If you enjoy smoothies made with cherries, don’t miss our Cherry Banana Avocado Smoothie, another naturally sweet recipe packed with fruit and wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie
This smoothie may sound a little different, but one sip is enough to understand why it’s a favorite. The fruit keeps it naturally sweet and refreshing, while the black beans add satisfying texture, plant-based protein, and fiber that help keep you full longer.
Naturally Sweet Without Added Sugar
Ripe bananas, cherries, and blood oranges provide plenty of natural sweetness, so there’s no need for refined sugar or artificial sweeteners.
Rich in Fiber and Plant-Based Protein
Cooked black beans boost the smoothie with fiber and protein, making it much more filling than a typical fruit smoothie and helping support steady energy throughout the day.
Unlike many fruit drinks, this protein smoothie helps keep you satisfied thanks to the combination of black beans and bananas.
Creamy and Refreshing
Bananas create a smooth, velvety texture, while blood oranges add bright citrus flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cherries.
Quick and Easy to Make
With only four simple ingredients and about five minutes of prep, this smoothie is ideal for busy mornings, healthy snacks, or a quick post-workout drink.
Naturally Vegan and Dairy-Free
Made entirely with plant-based ingredients, this smoothie is naturally vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and contains no added sugar, making it suitable for a variety of dietary lifestyles.
Looking for another high-fiber smoothie? Our Chocolate Oat Smoothie is another satisfying option that keeps you full for hours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This smoothie comes together with just four wholesome ingredients that create a naturally sweet, creamy, and filling drink.
Cooked Black Beans
Cooked black beans add plant-based protein, fiber, and a creamy texture without overpowering the fruit flavors. According to USDA FoodData Central, black beans are naturally rich in fiber, folate, magnesium, and plant-based protein. Be sure to rinse and drain canned beans well before using to remove excess sodium.
Bananas
Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and make the smoothie thick and silky. For an even creamier consistency, use frozen banana slices.
Cherries
Fresh or frozen cherries bring vibrant color, natural sweetness, and a slightly tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the citrus and bananas. If using fresh cherries, remove the pits before blending.
Blood Oranges
They also give this blood orange smoothie its beautiful deep ruby color. If blood oranges aren’t available, regular oranges or Cara Cara oranges make excellent substitutes.
The fresh citrus flavor is what makes this blood orange smoothie so refreshing and vibrant.
Optional Add-Ins
Customize your smoothie with one or more of these nutritious additions:
- Ice cubes for a colder, thicker smoothie.
- Unsweetened almond milk or oat milk for a creamier consistency.
- Ground flaxseed or chia seeds for extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- A scoop of vanilla or unflavored plant-based protein powder.
- A spoonful of almond butter for additional healthy fats and richness.
- A pinch of cinnamon for a subtle warm spice.
- Fresh ginger for a bright, refreshing kick.
- A handful of baby spinach for an extra serving of greens with very little change in flavor.
These simple additions make it easy to customize this homemade smoothie to match your taste and nutrition goals.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Recommended Equipment for This Recipe
Making this smoothie is simple, but the right tools help create an ultra-smooth, creamy texture every time. These are the kitchen essentials I recommend for the best results.
| Product | Why I Recommend It | Check Price |
|---|---|---|
| High-Speed Blender | Easily blends black beans, frozen cherries, and citrus into an incredibly smooth, creamy smoothie with no gritty texture. | View on Amazon → |
| Glass Mason Jars with Lids | Perfect for storing leftover smoothies or preparing breakfast ahead of time. | View on Amazon → |
| Reusable Glass Smoothie Straws | Wide enough for thick smoothies and environmentally friendly. | View on Amazon → |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Helps you measure ingredients accurately every time. | View on Amazon → |
| Reusable Silicone Freezer Bags | Great for making grab-and-blend smoothie freezer packs. | View on Amazon → |
My Favorite Pick
If you only buy one item, make it a high-speed blender. It completely transforms the texture of bean-based smoothies, creating a silky, café-quality drink in under two minutes.
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How to Make Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie
You’ll have this smoothie blended and ready in about five minutes.
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Peel the bananas, peel the blood oranges, and remove any seeds if necessary. If you’re using fresh cherries, wash and pit them. Rinse and drain the cooked black beans thoroughly if they’re canned.
2. Add Everything to the Blender
Place the black beans, bananas, cherries, and blood oranges into a high-speed blender. If you’d like a colder or thicker smoothie, add a handful of ice or use frozen bananas or cherries.
3. Blend Until Smooth
Blend on high speed for 1–3 minutes, or until the smoothie is completely creamy and no bean pieces remain. If it’s thicker than you’d like, add a small splash of water or your favorite plant-based milk and blend again.
4. Taste and Adjust
Taste the smoothie before serving. If you’d like it sweeter, add half a ripe banana or a pitted date. If you prefer more citrus flavor, squeeze in a little extra fresh orange juice.
5. Serve Immediately
Pour into glasses and enjoy right away while the smoothie is cold, creamy, and packed with fresh flavor. Garnish with a few cherries or an orange slice for a beautiful finishing touch.
Once blended, you’ll have a creamy fruit and bean smoothie that’s naturally sweet without any added sugar.
Ready to Upgrade Your Smoothie Game?
A few quality kitchen tools can make homemade smoothies quicker, smoother, and more enjoyable. If you’re building your smoothie station, these are the products I recommend starting with.
→ Shop My Favorite Smoothie Essentials on Amazon
My Top Pick
If I could recommend just one kitchen tool, it would be a high-speed blender. It effortlessly blends fibrous ingredients like black beans and frozen fruit into an incredibly smooth, creamy smoothie with no chunks.
I don’t have a favorite fruit. There are things that thrill me each turn of the season.
Ingredients
- ½ cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
- 2 medium ripe bananas
- 2 cups cherries, fresh or frozen (pitted if fresh)
- 2 blood oranges, peeled and seeds removed
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup ice cubes
- Splash of water or unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed
- 1 scoop vanilla plant-based protein powder
- 1 tablespoon almond butter
- Pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
- Rinse and drain the black beans thoroughly if using canned beans.
- Peel the bananas and blood oranges, removing any seeds. Pit the cherries if using fresh fruit.
- Add the black beans, bananas, cherries, and blood oranges to a high-speed blender.
- Add any optional ingredients, such as ice or almond milk, if desired.
- Blend on high for 1–3 minutes until completely smooth and creamy.
- If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash of water or plant-based milk and blend again.
- Pour into serving glasses and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Frozen cherries create a thicker, colder smoothie.
Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest flavor.
Regular oranges or Cara Cara oranges work well if blood oranges aren't available.
Rinse canned black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and canned flavor.
This smoothie is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
Expert Tips for the Best Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie
A few simple tips will help you achieve the smoothest texture and best flavor every time.
Use Very Ripe Bananas
The riper the bananas, the sweeter and creamier your smoothie will be. Bananas with plenty of brown spots are ideal because they blend more easily and add natural sweetness.
Rinse the Black Beans Well
If you’re using canned black beans, rinse and drain them thoroughly under cold water. This removes excess sodium and any canned flavor, allowing the fruit to remain the star of the smoothie.
Frozen Cherries Make It Extra Thick
Frozen cherries create a colder, thicker smoothie without the need for ice, which can dilute the flavor. They also give the smoothie a rich, frosty texture.
Blend Long Enough
Because black beans are higher in fiber than most smoothie ingredients, blend for at least 1 to 3 minutes in a high-speed blender to achieve a silky-smooth consistency.
Adjust the Consistency
For a thicker smoothie, use frozen fruit or reduce the amount of liquid if adding any. For a thinner, more drinkable smoothie, blend in a little water, coconut water, or unsweetened plant-based milk until you reach your preferred consistency.
Enjoy It Fresh
This smoothie tastes best immediately after blending when the fruit is at its freshest and the texture is perfectly smooth and creamy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this smoothie is easy to make, avoiding these common mistakes will give you the best flavor and texture every time.
Not Rinsing the Black Beans
Always rinse and drain canned black beans thoroughly before blending. This removes excess sodium and any canned taste, leaving a cleaner, fresher flavor.
Using Unripe Bananas
Green or underripe bananas aren’t as sweet and can leave the smoothie tasting starchy. Fully ripe bananas create a naturally sweeter, creamier drink.
Forgetting to Pit Fresh Cherries
If you’re using fresh cherries, be sure to remove the pits before blending. Cherry pits are hard, can damage your blender, and should never be consumed.
Under-Blending the Smoothie
Black beans need a little extra blending time to become completely smooth. Blend for 1 to 3 minutes, especially if your blender isn’t high-powered.
Adding Too Much Liquid
Too much water or plant-based milk can make the smoothie thin and reduce its rich, fruity flavor. Start with a small amount and add more only if needed.
Letting It Sit Too Long
For the freshest flavor and creamiest texture, enjoy the smoothie soon after blending. As it sits, it may thicken naturally because of the fiber in the black beans and bananas.
Delicious Recipe Variations to Try
One of the best things about this Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie is how easy it is to customize. Try one of these simple variations to create a new favorite.
Every variation starts with the same delicious cherry orange smoothie base, making it easy to create new flavors with just a few simple changes.
Chocolate Cherry Smoothie
Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor that pairs perfectly with cherries and bananas.
Love chocolate flavors? Our Chocolate Oat Smoothie is another rich and creamy recipe worth trying.
Mixed Berry Smoothie
Replace half of the cherries with blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries for a mixed berry twist with even more antioxidants.
For even more berry goodness, try our refreshing Strawberries Pomegranate Smoothie.
Tropical Citrus Smoothie
Swap one banana for a cup of pineapple or mango to give the smoothie a bright tropical flavor that complements the oranges.
Protein-Packed Smoothie
Blend in a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored plant-based protein powder to make the smoothie even more filling after workouts.
Nutty Cherry Smoothie
Add a tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter for extra creaminess, healthy fats, and a subtle nutty flavor.
Green Power Smoothie
Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale. The fruit flavors easily mask the greens while adding extra vitamins and minerals.
If you enjoy adding greens to your drinks, you’ll also love our Sweet Green Smoothie.
Spiced Fruit Smoothie
Add a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger for a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the cherries and citrus beautifully.
What to Serve with Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie
This hearty breakfast smoothie is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs well with wholesome breakfasts and snacks for a complete meal.
Whole Grain Toast
A slice of whole grain toast topped with almond butter, peanut butter, or mashed avocado adds extra fiber, healthy fats, and lasting energy.
Homemade Granola
Crunchy granola provides a delicious contrast to the creamy smoothie and makes breakfast even more filling.
Greek Yogurt
If you don’t need the smoothie to be dairy-free, plain Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and pairs well with the fruity flavors.
Oatmeal
A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts complements the smoothie and creates a balanced breakfast.
Fresh Fruit Salad
Serve the smoothie alongside a colorful fruit salad with oranges, grapes, kiwi, or berries for an extra serving of vitamins and natural sweetness.
Whole Grain Muffins
Healthy banana, oat, or bran muffins make a convenient breakfast or afternoon snack alongside this smoothie.
Mixed Nuts
A handful of almonds, walnuts, pistachios, or cashews adds satisfying crunch, healthy fats, and additional plant-based protein to round out your meal.
Finish your breakfast with a refreshing Berry Protein Greens Smoothie or prepare a Bananas Foster Smoothie when you’re craving something a little sweeter.
How to Store Leftover Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie
This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately after blending, but leftovers store surprisingly well for later.
Refrigerate for Up to 24 Hours
Pour any leftover smoothie into an airtight glass jar or bottle and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or stir before drinking, as natural separation is normal.
Freeze for Longer Storage
Pour the smoothie into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or blend the frozen cubes with a splash of water or plant-based milk for a freshly blended texture.
Make Smoothie Packs
To save time on busy mornings, portion the bananas, cherries, and peeled blood oranges into freezer bags. When you’re ready to make the smoothie, simply add the frozen fruit and cooked black beans to the blender and blend until smooth.
Expect Natural Thickening
Because black beans and bananas are both rich in fiber, the smoothie may become thicker after sitting in the refrigerator. Simply stir in a little water, orange juice, or your favorite plant-based milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
Avoid Multiple Freeze-Thaw Cycles
For the best flavor and texture, freeze the smoothie only once. Repeated thawing and refreezing can affect both its consistency and freshness.
More Smoothie Essentials
If you meal prep smoothies regularly, these products make storage much easier.
| If You Want To… | I Recommend | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|
| Make ultra-creamy smoothies | High-Speed Blender | 🛒 Check Price on Amazon → |
| Meal prep breakfasts | Glass Mason Jars | 🛒 Check Price on Amazon → |
| Freeze smoothie ingredients | Reusable Silicone Freezer Bags | 🛒 Check Price on Amazon → |
| Drink thick smoothies comfortably | Wide Glass Smoothie Straws | 🛒 Check Price on Amazon → |
| Measure ingredients accurately | Stainless Steel Measuring Cups | 🛒 Check Price on Amazon → |
Health Benefits of Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie
Every ingredient in this smoothie brings something nutritious to the glass, making it a delicious way to fuel your day.
Because it’s loaded with beans and fruit, this high fiber smoothie can help keep you feeling full longer than many traditional fruit smoothies.
Black Beans Add Fiber and Plant-Based Protein
Black beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber and plant-based protein, helping keep you full and satisfied. They’re also rich in iron, folate, magnesium, and potassium, making them a nutritious addition to smoothies. The American Heart Association recommends eating more fiber-rich foods as part of a heart-healthy eating pattern.
Cherries Are Rich in Antioxidants
Cherries are packed with antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which give them their deep red color. They also provide vitamin C and other beneficial plant compounds that support overall wellness. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health highlights fruits and legumes as important parts of a healthy dietary pattern.
Bananas Provide Natural Energy
Bananas are naturally rich in carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamin B6. They add natural sweetness while helping create a smooth, creamy texture that’s perfect for breakfast or post-workout recovery.
Blood Oranges Are High in Vitamin C
Blood oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports normal immune function and collagen production. They also contain antioxidants that contribute to their vibrant red color and refreshing citrus flavor.
A Naturally Nutrient-Dense Smoothie
Because it’s made with whole fruits and legumes, this smoothie provides fiber, vitamins, minerals, and plant-based protein without added sugars or artificial ingredients. It’s a wholesome option for breakfast, snacks, or a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.
Looking for more nutrient-packed drinks? Our Banana Nut Greens Smoothie combines leafy greens with naturally sweet bananas for another healthy breakfast option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you taste the black beans in this smoothie?
Not really. Black beans have a mild flavor that blends well with naturally sweet fruits like bananas and cherries. The fruit and citrus flavors are what you’ll notice most.
Can I use canned black beans?
Yes. Canned black beans work perfectly for this recipe. Just be sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly before blending to remove excess sodium and any canned taste.
Can I use frozen cherries?
Absolutely. Frozen cherries make the smoothie colder and thicker without needing ice. They’re a great option when fresh cherries aren’t in season.
What can I use instead of blood oranges?
Regular oranges, Cara Cara oranges, or even mandarins are excellent substitutes. They’ll still provide plenty of fresh citrus flavor and natural sweetness.
Is this smoothie good for meal prep?
Yes. You can prepare the smoothie up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze individual portions or make freezer smoothie packs for quick breakfasts.
How can I make this smoothie higher in protein?
Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder, a tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter, or a few tablespoons of hemp hearts for an extra protein boost.
For more guidance on plant-based nutrition, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Is this smoothie kid-friendly?
Yes. The sweet bananas and cherries mask the mild flavor of the black beans, making this a fun and nutritious way to add more fiber and plant-based protein to your family’s diet.
Enjoy This Nutritious Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie Anytime
This Black Bean Cherry Orange Smoothie is proof that simple, wholesome ingredients can create something both delicious and nourishing. Sweet cherries, creamy bananas, hearty black beans, and refreshing blood oranges come together in a smoothie that’s naturally rich in fiber, plant-based protein, vitamins, and vibrant fruit flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a filling breakfast smoothie, a satisfying protein smoothie, or simply a healthy smoothie recipe to enjoy any time of day, this homemade breakfast smoothie is one you’ll want to make again and again. Feel free to experiment with your favorite add-ins and make it your own.
Give this recipe a try the next time you’re craving something different. You might discover that black beans are one of the best-kept secrets for creating creamy, satisfying smoothies you’ll want to make again and again.
Did you make this Black Bean Cherry Orange smoothie recipe?
I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below and share your favorite variation or serving suggestion. Don’t forget to tag @thesmoothierecipes on Instagram and hashtag it #thesmoothierecipes so I can see your delicious creations. Happy blending!
