I was ready for fall baking today, but the desert decided otherwise — back to triple digits. Since it was warm, I wanted something cool and seasonal. I also had a can of pumpkin puree waiting, so instead of turning on the oven I blended up an Easy Pumpkin Smoothie. Think of it as fall in a glass.
Smoothies in my house are usually fruit-forward and fairly sweet, but I’m on a pumpkin kick right now so I wanted to try something different. We already had the ingredients on hand, so I pulled out the blender and went for it.
Not everyone in my family loves pumpkin — a couple of them roll their eyes at anything gourd-related — but I keep coming back to it because pumpkin is nutritious: it’s high in potassium and vitamin A, low in calories, and lends great fall flavor without the heaviness of a dessert. This smoothie highlights pumpkin and warming spices while staying light and refreshing.
I added a touch of real maple syrup for just enough sweetness. The drink isn’t cloying like a milkshake; you’ll taste the pumpkin and a hint of spice, making it a nicely balanced seasonal beverage. My pumpkin-loving family approved, and even some skeptics gave it a try.
Ingredients for Easy Pumpkin Smoothie
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup vanilla yogurt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons real maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups ice
Directions
Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. If the smoothie is too thick, thin it with a little more milk. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and stir before serving.
This pumpkin smoothie is light, refreshing, and a simple way to enjoy autumn flavors without baking. I made it as an after-school snack, but it also works well for a quick breakfast. If it’s already cool where you are, lucky you — here’s hoping the weather cools down soon.
Thanks for reading!
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