Tart Cherry Juice Shake

Quick Summary

This Tart Cherry Juice Shake blends creamy vanilla ice cream, sweet maraschino cherries, and a splash of Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate for a cool, crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect any time of year.

Published: January 2011 | Updated: November 2025

Chef’s Note 

I first made this shake for a Traverse Bay Farms summer event at our Bellaire store — and it instantly became a hit. The Sediment-Free Cherry Juice Concentrate adds just the right amount of tang to balance the sweetness of the cherries and ice cream without the worry for unsightly chunks or sedimentation. It’s one of those nostalgic, soda-fountain-style shakes that everyone loves — especially when topped with whipped cream and a cherry.

Prep & Yield

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Servings: 2 (12-ounce) shakes

Ingredients

• 1 (10-ounce) jar maraschino cherries, drained and chopped

• 3 tbsp maraschino cherry juice (from jar)

• 3 cups vanilla ice cream

• ¼ tbsp Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate

• Whipped topping (for garnish)

• Whole maraschino cherries (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Drain maraschino cherries, reserving 3 tablespoons of the juice. Chop cherries into small pieces.

2. In a blender, combine chopped cherries, reserved cherry juice, vanilla ice cream, and Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate.

3. Blend until smooth.

4. Pour into two tall 12-ounce glasses.

5. Top with whipped cream and garnish each with a whole cherry.

6. Serve immediately with a smile and a straw!

Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Add a few ice cubes for a thicker shake.

• Use Traverse Bay Farms Dried Cherries for a texture boost — soak them in cherry juice for 10 minutes first.

• Try chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla for a “Black Forest” version.

Nutritional Highlights (per serving)

Calories: 315 | Total Fat: 8g | Carbohydrates: 56g | Protein: 6g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 72mg

Behind the Recipe

This shake celebrates Traverse Bay Farms’ commitment to fun, family-friendly cherry creations. The Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate not only enhances flavor but also adds antioxidants and natural color — proof that delicious and wholesome can go hand in hand.

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Can I make this shake dairy-free?
Yes — use coconut or oat-based ice cream for a creamy, vegan version.

Can I make it ahead?
It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze it up to 30 minutes before serving.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino?
Absolutely. Use pitted fresh cherries and add an extra teaspoon of Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate for color and sweetness.

Can kids enjoy this recipe?
Yes — it’s alcohol-free and made with real cherries!

Bring the Taste Home

Add a splash of Traverse Bay Farms Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate to smoothies, shakes, and mocktails for natural flavor and vibrant cherry color — it’s the only sediment-free guarantee in the industry.