Cherry Cooler

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A refreshing cherry cooler blending fresh cherries and orange juice with a hint of vanilla, perfect for summer gatherings or a cool, fruity treat.

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Ingredients

  • 4 cups fresh orange juice
  • 3/4 pound fresh cherries, pitted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients in blender container.
  2. Cover; process until smooth.
  3. Serve immediately.

Tips & Substitutions

For a sweeter Cherry Cooler, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup to balance the tartness of the cherries. If fresh cherries are not available, frozen cherries work well too. Feel free to experiment by adding a splash of lime juice for an extra zing or try a dash of almond extract for a unique twist. Blend until smooth to ensure a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cherry Cooler in tall glasses over ice for a delightful summer refreshment. Garnish with fresh cherries or orange slices for a pop of color. This drink pairs beautifully with light snacks such as fruit platters or even savory dishes like Western Style Stew for a balanced meal. It’s perfect for brunch or a casual gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Before serving, give it a good stir or blend again to refresh the texture. Avoid freezing, as the consistency may change once thawed. Enjoy this refreshing drink chilled, as it’s best served fresh.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cherry Cooler contains roughly 732 calories, with 1g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium.

732 kcal 37% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.7g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.3g
Carbs 39.9g 14% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 37.9g 76% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 25.1mg 1% DV
Potassium 513.1mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 7.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 25.6mg 28% DV
Calcium 35mg 3% DV
Iron 0.4mg 2% DV
Diet fit Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Cherry Cooler ahead of time?

While this drink is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance. Blend everything together and store it in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days. The flavors will meld nicely, but be sure to stir or re-blend before serving to regain its smooth texture.

What can I substitute for orange juice?

If you don't have orange juice, consider using a combination of grapefruit juice and a bit of water for a citrusy alternative. Alternatively, freshly squeezed lemon juice mixed with a bit of simple syrup can create a tangy base. Just keep in mind that these substitutions will alter the flavor profile of the drink.

Is this Cherry Cooler suitable for a vegan diet?

Yes, this Cherry Cooler is completely plant-based and suitable for vegan diets. It contains no animal products, making it a refreshing choice for anyone following vegan recipes. Feel free to customize it further with your favorite vegan-friendly ingredients or sweeteners!

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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