The best time of year is approaching us: when the leaves change colors, the mornings are crisp, and the pumpkins are everywhere! Pumpkins are not entirely meant for Halloween décor and carving, but they also make for a tasty ingredient in many recipes.

Pumpkin-flavored everything is so common when Fall arrives — whether it’s coffee, pie, or soup, it’s the taste of the season.

Foods consisting of pumpkin purée tend to be high in calories, which, just like any high calorie food, can result in weight gain if not consumed in the appropriate serving. The good news is that there is a way to enjoy the taste of pumpkin while keeping calories low and protein high.

A delicious alternative to your favorite pumpkin recipe is a Protein Pumpkin Smoothie. If you’re a fan of pumpkin, then you’ll be a fan of this recipe. This smoothie can also take the place of a meal if need be.   

Pumpkin Protein Smoothie

INGREDIENTS

• ¼ cup 100% Pure Pumpkin Purée 
• 1 cup Unsweetened Almond Milk 
• 1 scoop 100% Vanilla Whey Protein Powder (The vanilla makes this smoothie!) 
• 1 banana 
• ½ tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice (Optional)
• ½ tsp Cinnamon 
• Ice 

DIRECTIONS

Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

Note: The nutrition breakdown depends on the exact product and brand that you use. To keep this recipe healthy and low in calories, choose ingredients that are close to or meet the following macronutrients: 

• Carbohydrates: 20g (Banana and Pumpkin Purée) 
• Protein: 21g-30g (Depends on the amount per scoop of your powder) 
• Fat: 2.5g (Almond Milk)

Have you tried this smoothie? Let us know what you think in the comments below!