This time of year, I’m a sucker for anything involving pumpkins and apples. So, why not put them together in a smoothie for a perfect fall treat? Better yet, how about making this for breakfast? I decided to give this recipe a whirl and see what I thought. Let’s just say this is an incredibly good smoothie, not too sweet and went way beyond my expectations.
My first thought of the taste was similar to biting into a slightly sweet pumpkin muffin. Just enough hints of both pumpkin and tart apples with a nice blend of subtle sweetness from the banana. Even better, is this smoothies’ nutritional power. When pumpkin, apples, banana, yogurt, and milk are combined, it’s a slam-dunk for feeding your body what it needs. Rich in protein, vitamin A, calcium, potassium, vitamin D and B6, magnesium, riboflavin, and even probiotics, this smoothie doesn’t disappoint in its impressive health benefits.
What are you waiting for? Welcome Autumn by giving it a try!
Photo taken by Cheryl Mussatto
Pumpkin Spice Apple Smoothie – Serves 4-6 ½ cup servings
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup pumpkin puree
1 medium apple, cored and quartered with skin left on. I’d recommend a tart apple such as Braeburn, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, Melrose, Jonathan, or Winesap
1 banana, cut into pieces and frozen
1-2 tablespoons honey
¾ cup nonfat plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
½ cup milk
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of ground cloves
1 teaspoon vanilla
6 ice cubes
Directions:
- Place oats in a blender and blend for about 30 seconds or until finely ground
- Add the rest of the ingredients and blend until smooth.
- Pour into individual glasses and sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired. Serve immediately.
