Everyone despises pumpkin spice beverages, but it’s past time to face the facts: Each autumn, these orange-hued, cinnamon-infused sips spread joy and, despite the “basic” label, can taste quite good.
Therefore, this season, set aside your preconceptions and try whipping up this delectable pumpkin spice smoothie, created by Kim Rose, R.D.N., Splendid Spoon’s in-house registered dietitian. Whether you’re a PSL fan or have always been a hater, this pie-like beverage will convert you.
This dairy-free, nutrient-dense smoothie is made with just three ingredients: water, pumpkin puree, and dairy-free pumpkin spice creamer. To begin, pumpkin is high in vitamin A, a nutrient that supports normal vision, helps maintain a strong immune system, and aids in the proper function of the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs, according to the National Institutes of Health. By adding a quarter-cup of gourd to your beverage, you’ll get 475 micrograms of vitamin A — nearly 68 percent of the recommended daily allowance, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. Additionally, the orange squash provides 1.5 grams of fiber, which has a plethora of health benefits, including maintaining regular digestion. While those few grams represent less than 5% of the recommended daily allowance for the nutrient, the tasty beverage will get you one step closer to meeting your daily fiber goal.
Due to the simplicity of the pumpkin smoothie, you also have a plethora of options for customizing it to your taste. To intensify the warming spice flavor, add a dash or two of nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, or cloves to the blender along with the remaining ingredients. Add a small amount of zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower to sneak in some vegetables, or boost the protein content with your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder. Even better, finish the drink with a swirl of whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers, and a drizzle of melted chocolate for a decadently sweet beverage. This is the smoothie-milkshake concoction you didn’t realize you needed this season.
However, as you’re probably aware from previous years, canned pumpkin begins flying off supermarket shelves as soon as the first leaf falls. Therefore, if you intend to make a pumpkin smoothie at any point this autumn, do yourself a favor and stock up on enough ingredients now to make the delectable concoction throughout the season. Believe me, it’s worth the extra pantry space. (Coming Soon: Pumpkin Spice Mini Muffins Are the Perfect Snack Size)
Smoothie with 3 ingredients. Makes 1 smoothie.
3 minutes in total.
Ingredients include:
- 1 handful of ice cubes
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup pumpkin spice almond milk creamer
- 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
Directions:
In a blender, combine ice, water, pumpkin spice almond milk creamer, and pumpkin puree. Blend until smooth. Pour into a glass, and serve immediately.