Pumpkin pie is the best part of fall, and nobody says you have to wait for Thanksgiving. This smoothie has the same flavor as the pie: pumpkin, warm spice, and a little sweetness. It also has protein from the yogurt. It’s ready in five minutes, so it works for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a tailgate cooler.
It’s a good fit for a cookout site too. Smoothies work for early guests, kids, and anyone skipping the cocktails, and a splash of bourbon turns the same recipe into a grown-up dessert drink.
What You’ll Need (serves 2):
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup cold milk (whole, 2%, or evaporated milk for extra creaminess)
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 frozen banana (for body and natural sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup ice
- Whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon, for topping
How to Make It:
- Blend. Add everything except the toppings to a blender. Start on low, then blend on high for 45 to 60 seconds, until completely smooth.
- Taste. Add more maple for sweetness or more spice for a stronger pie flavor. Blend again briefly.
- Serve. Pour into two glasses, top with whipped cream, and dust with cinnamon.
Spiked Version (21+): Add 1½ ounces bourbon or spiced rum per glass after blending, and stir gently. Bourbon adds a caramel note that tastes like pie crust. Please drink responsibly.
Pro Tips:
- Check the can. “Pumpkin puree” is just pumpkin. “Pumpkin pie filling” has added sugar and spices and will make the drink too sweet.
- Freeze the banana ahead. Peel and slice ripe bananas, freeze them, and you’ll always have a thick smoothie. No banana? Use 1 cup of ice instead.
- Make it thicker or thinner. Add ice for thickness or a splash of milk to thin it.
- Dairy-free option: Use oat milk and coconut yogurt.
- Store leftover pumpkin. Freeze the rest of the can in ice cube trays. One cube is about 2 tablespoons.
- Make it ahead. Blend it the night before and refrigerate it in a sealed jar. Shake before drinking, since it will separate a little.
Serve It With: Cinnamon rolls, pecan brownies, or as a light finish after a smoked brisket dinner.
