Drinks · Part 1 of 3: Ingredients
Black Forest Smoothie Cherry Dark Chocolate Frappe
- Prep
- Cook
- Total
- Serves
- 2
This Black Forest Smoothie Cherry Dark Chocolate Frappe is a rich, indulgent drink that tastes like a dessert in a glass. Dark cherries, chilled espresso, cocoa, and almond milk are blended together until thick and velvety, then crowned with whipped cream, chocolate curls, and roasted almonds.
Inspired by the classic Black Forest cake, this frappe brings together the deep flavors of dark cherries and chocolate with a hint of coffee. The espresso adds a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the cherries and the richness of the chocolate.
The result is a thick, creamy smoothie that feels both elegant and comforting. This recipe is quick to assemble and uses simple ingredients, making it an easy way to enjoy a café-style drink at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dark cherries, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup roasted almonds, chopped
- 2 oz 70% dark Belgian chocolate, grated
- 1/2 cup chilled espresso
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 cup ice cubes
For topping
- Whipped cream, for topping, to taste
Why this recipe works
The combination of dark cherries and 70% dark chocolate creates a deep, complex flavor that mirrors the classic Black Forest dessert. The cherries provide a bright, fruity note while the chocolate adds a rich, slightly bitter depth.
Chilled espresso enhances the chocolate's flavor without overpowering the fruit, giving the frappe a sophisticated coffee undertone.
Blending the ingredients with ice creates a thick, frosty texture that is both satisfying and refreshing. The almond milk adds a subtle nuttiness and keeps the drink dairy-free, while the cocoa powder intensifies the chocolate presence.
The result is a smooth, velvety frappe that is rich enough to be a dessert yet light enough to enjoy as a midday treat.
Notes and substitutions
Use ripe, dark cherries for the best flavor; they should be sweet and juicy. If fresh cherries are not in season, frozen pitted cherries work well—just thaw them slightly before blending.
The espresso should be chilled to avoid melting the ice and thinning the frappe. Brew it strong for a more pronounced coffee flavor.
A glass blender pitcher is ideal because it is easy to see the texture as you blend. The box grater produces fine chocolate curls that melt slightly on top, adding a luxurious touch. For the whipped cream, any type works—store-bought or homemade—but make sure it is cold and firm to hold its shape on the frappe.
- dark cherries: Sweet cherries or frozen pitted cherries (thawed) work well; adjust sweetness to taste.
- chilled espresso: Strong brewed coffee chilled, or 2 shots of espresso diluted with water to make 1/2 cup.
- almond milk: Any milk or non-dairy milk, such as oat milk or cashew milk, can replace almond milk.
- 70% dark Belgian chocolate: Use any good-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best chocolate curls.
Equipment
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Box grater
- Glass blender pitcher
- Blender
- Crystal glass
- Measuring cups and spoons