Pumpkin Protein Smoothie!

Hello, lovely readers of HeyHaileyFam!

Fall is officially here, and you know what that means—pumpkin spice everything! But let’s be real, pumpkin is not just for lattes and pies. Today, I’m sharing a recipe that will make you rethink how you use this autumnal staple. Introducing the Pumpkin Almond Butter Protein Smoothie—a delicious, nutritious, and oh-so-fall drink that’s perfect for breakfast, post-workout, or even as a dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Smoothie

1. Nutrient-Packed: Pumpkin is a great source of vitamins A and C, while almond butter adds healthy fats and protein.
2. Quick & Easy: This smoothie takes less than 5 minutes to make.
3. Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to make it vegan, nut-free, or whatever suits your dietary needs.
4. Delicious: It’s like fall in a glass. Need I say more?

Ingredients

• 1/4 Cup Pumpkin Puree (canned or fresh)
• 1 Heaping Tablespoon Almond Butter
• 1 Scoop Vanilla Protein Powder – Truvani Protein Powder (My absolute favorite with THE cleanest ingredients)
• 2 Dates, pitted
• Sprinkle of Cinnamon
• 3/4 Cup Milk of Your Choice (I love almond or oat milk for this!)
• 1-2 Cups of Ice
• 1 Pinch of Salt

Equipment Needed

• Blender – Vitamix Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons – OXO Good Grips Measuring Spoons
• Glass for serving – 20oz Cute Glass Cups with Bamboo Lid and Glass Straw

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

1. If you’re using fresh pumpkin, make sure it’s cooked and pureed. Canned pumpkin works just as well and saves time. I like to use Trader Joes Organic cans of Pumpkin.
2. Pit your dates if they aren’t already pitted.

Step 2: Blend It Up

1. Add the pumpkin puree, almond butter, vanilla protein powder, dates, and a sprinkle of cinnamon to your blender.
2. Pour in the milk of your choice.
3. Add a pinch of salt. This enhances all the flavors and trust me, it makes a difference.
4. Start blending on a low setting and gradually increase to high until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Ice, Ice, Baby

1. Add 1-2 cups of ice to the blender. The amount of ice depends on how thick you like your smoothies.
2. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is your desired consistency.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

1. Give your smoothie a quick taste. Need more sweetness? Add another date. Want more spice? Sprinkle in some more cinnamon.

Step 5: Pour and Enjoy!

1. Pour your delicious Pumpkin Almond Butter Protein Smoothie into a glass.
2. Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of almond butter on top for that Instagram-worthy finish.

Variations

• Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder and milk. I’m a huge fan of Truvani protein powders and products. Maybe I should do a post on them!?
• Nut-Free: Substitute almond butter with sunflower seed butter and use a nut-free milk.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Nutritional Info (Approximate)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fiber: 7g

There you have it, folks! A Pumpkin Almond Butter Protein Smoothie that’s perfect for welcoming the fall season. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. Happy blending!

Love, Leilani