pumpkin cold brew smoothie (vegan)
Fall is in the air, and there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a delicious and refreshing Pumpkin Cold Brew Smoothie! This smoothie is perfect for those crisp mornings or as an afternoon pick-me-up. It combines the rich flavors of pumpkin spice and coffee in a creamy, dairy-free blend that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The frozen cauliflower or butternut squash adds a smooth texture while keeping it light and healthy. Let’s dive into the flavors of fall with this energizing drink!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pumpkin Cold Brew Smoothie is a healthier alternative to those sugary pumpkin drinks you find at coffee shops. It’s made with wholesome ingredients, no added sugars (unless you opt for the dates or maple syrup!), and is fully customizable. Not a fan of cauliflower? Swap it for frozen banana to add a natural sweetness and creaminess. Want an extra protein boost? Add your favorite vanilla protein powder! Plus, it’s vegan, dairy-free, and can be made gluten-free depending on the ingredients you use.
Ingredients Breakdown
• Cold Brew Concentrate or Espresso: This adds the caffeine kick to get your day started or keep you going through that afternoon slump. You can use cold brew for a smoother flavor or a shot of espresso for a more intense coffee taste.
• Dates or Maple Syrup: Adds a natural sweetness to balancePumpkin 🎃 Cold Brew Smoothie
Fall is in the air, and there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a delicious and refreshing Pumpkin Cold Brew Smoothie! This smoothie is perfect for those crisp mornings or as an afternoon pick-me-up. It combines the rich flavors of pumpkin spice and coffee in a creamy, dairy-free blend that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The frozen cauliflower or butternut squash adds a smooth texture while keeping it light and healthy. Let’s dive into the flavors of fall with this energizing drink!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pumpkin Cold Brew Smoothie is a healthier alternative to those sugary pumpkin drinks you find at coffee shops. It’s made with wholesome ingredients, no added sugars (unless you opt for the dates or maple syrup!), and is fully customizable. Not a fan of cauliflower? Swap it for frozen banana to add a natural sweetness and creaminess. Want an extra protein boost? Add your favorite vanilla protein powder! Plus, it’s vegan, dairy-free, and can be made gluten-free depending on the ingredients you use.
Ingredients Breakdown
• Cold Brew Concentrate or Espresso: This adds the caffeine kick to get your day started or keep you going through that afternoon slump. You can use cold brew for a smoother flavor or a shot of espresso for a more intense coffee taste.
• Dates or Maple Syrup: Adds a natural sweetness to balance the pumpkin and coffee flavors. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, feel free to omit this.
• Vanilla Protein): A great way to make this smoothie more filling and nutritious, especially if you’re using it as a meal replacement or post-workout drink.
• Frozen Cauliflower, Butternut Squash, or Banana: This is where the magic happens! Using frozen veggies like cauliflower or squash keeps the smoothie creamy and thick without overpowering the flavor. For a sweeter option, use frozen banana.
• Pumpkin Purée: The star of the show! Pumpkin adds a rich, earthy flavor along with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that brings all the comforting fall vibes to this drink.
• Dairy-Free Milk: Keeps the smoothie light and creamy. You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk you prefer.
• Ice Cubes: For an extra frosty finish!Step-by-Step Directions
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Cold Brew Smoothie
• For Extra Creaminess: Use a high-speed blender to ensure the smoothie turns out perfectly smooth. If you prefer a thicker smoothie, start with less milk and add more as needed.
• Customizations: Not a fan of cold brew? Swap it out for decaf, chai concentrate, or skip the coffee altogether for a purely pumpkin experience!
• Add-Ins: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of spinach or a scoop of nut butter for extra nutrients and flavor.Why Cold Brew?
Cold brew coffee is brewed slowly with cold water, resulting in a smoother, less acidic flavor compared to regular coffee. This makes it the perfect addition to smoothies, as it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Health Benefits
This smoothie packs a nutritional punch! With the fiber and vitamins from pumpkin purée, antioxidants from the pumpkin pie spice, and a potential protein boost if you add vanilla protein powder, it’s a balanced and nourishing option. The frozen cauliflower or butternut squash provides a thick, creamy texture without the need for bananas, keeping the sugar content low. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Serve and Enjoy!
Pour your pumpkin cold brew smoothie into a tall glass, garnish with a swirl of dairy-free whip, and sip your way into autumn. It’s a cozy, comforting treat that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
If you loved this Pumpkin Cold Brew Smoothie, make sure to save this recipe and follow me @stelleandcobakes for more delicious, seasonal recipes that are easy, healthy, and oh-so-tasty. From cozy fall drinks to holiday treats, I’ve got you covered!
This smoothie is not only a delicious fall treat but also an easy way to get your daily caffeine fix in a fun and healthy way. Enjoy blending up a taste of autumn with every sip! the pumpkin and coffee flavors. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, feel free to omit this.
• Vanilla Protein (Optional): A great way to make this smoothie more filling and nutritious, especially if you’re using it as a meal replacement or post-workout drink.
• Frozen Cauliflower, Butternut Squash, or Banana: This is where the magic happens! Using frozen veggies like cauliflower or squash keeps the smoothie creamy and thick without overpowering the flavor. For a sweeter option, use frozen banana.
• Pumpkin Purée: The star of the show! Pumpkin adds a rich, earthy flavor along with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that brings all the comforting fall vibes to this drink.
• Dairy-Free Milk: Keeps the smoothie light and creamy. You can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk you prefer.
• Ice Cubes: For an extra frosty finish!
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Cold Brew Smoothie
• For Extra Creaminess: Use a high-speed blender to ensure the smoothie turns out perfectly smooth. If you prefer a thicker smoothie, start with less milk and add more as needed.
• Customizations: Not a fan of cold brew? Swap it out for decaf, chai concentrate, or skip the coffee altogether for a purely pumpkin experience!
• Add-Ins: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of spinach or a scoop of nut butter for extra nutrients and flavor.Why Cold Brew?
Cold brew coffee is brewed slowly with cold water, resulting in a smoother, less acidic flavor compared to regular coffee. This makes it the perfect addition to smoothies, as it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Health Benefits
This smoothie packs a nutritional punch! With the fiber and vitamins from pumpkin purée, antioxidants from the pumpkin pie spice, and a potential protein boost if you add vanilla protein powder, it’s a balanced and nourishing option. The frozen cauliflower or butternut squash provides a thick, creamy texture without the need for bananas, keeping the sugar content low. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Serve and Enjoy!
Pour your pumpkin cold brew smoothie into a tall glass, garnish with a swirl of dairy-free whip, and sip your way into autumn. It’s a cozy, comforting treat that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Pumpkin cold brew smoothie
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/4 C cold brew concentrate, 8 oz cold brew, or shot of espresso
- 2 softened & pitted dates or 2tbsp maple syrup
- : 1 serving vanilla protein
- 2 C riced frozen cauliflower or butternut squash, or frozen banana
- 4 tbsp pumpkin purée
- 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie spice
- 1/2 C dairy free milk
- Handful ice cubes
Instructions
Step 1: Soften the Dates (If Using)
- If you’re using dates for sweetness, start by soaking the pitted dates in warm water for about 5 minutes to soften them. This step will make them easier to blend into the smoothie and ensure a smooth texture. If you’re using maple syrup, you can skip this step.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Blender
- Once the dates are softened, drain them and add them to a high-speed blender along with the cold brew (or espresso), vanilla protein powder, frozen riced cauliflower (or butternut squash or banana), pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, dairy-free milk, and a handful of ice cubes. The frozen veggies or banana will give the smoothie its creamy texture, while the other ingredients will infuse it with the rich flavors of pumpkin and coffee.
Step 3: Blend Until Smooth
- Turn the blender on and blend the mixture on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the smoothie is completely smooth and creamy. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined, and there are no chunks of frozen vegetables or dates remaining.
- Pro Tip: If you find that your smoothie is too thick, add a splash of dairy-free milk or cold brew to thin it out to your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes or an extra handful of frozen cauliflower/butternut squash/banana to thicken it up.
Step 4: Taste & Adjust
- After blending, give the smoothie a quick taste. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to add an additional date, a little more maple syrup, or even a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. If you want an extra spice kick, sprinkle in a pinch more pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon.
Step 5: Serve & Top
- Pour the smoothie into your favorite glass or to-go cup. For a fun and festive touch, top it with your favorite dairy-free whipped cream (coconut whipped cream works great!) and sprinkle with extra pumpkin pie spice. If you want some texture, you can also add granola or crushed nuts on top for a little crunch.
Tips for Success:
- Use Frozen Veggies or Banana: The key to getting that thick, creamy texture is using frozen riced cauliflower, butternut squash, or banana. These options not only provide smoothness but also add extra fiber, vitamins, and a touch of natural sweetness without overpowering the pumpkin spice flavor.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Dates provide a natural sweetness that blends smoothly, but if you prefer, you can substitute them with maple syrup or another liquid sweetener of your choice. Adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your smoothies.
- Cold Brew vs. Espresso: If you’re looking for a stronger coffee flavor, opt for cold brew concentrate or a shot of espresso. If you prefer a more subtle flavor, regular cold brew works perfectly. You can even use decaf cold brew if you want to enjoy this smoothie later in the day.
- Protein Options: Use your favorite vanilla protein powder. Whether it’s plant-based, whey, or collagen protein, choose
