Creamy Apple Smoothies are a refreshing taste of fall. Made with just five ingredients, this vegan smoothie is banana- and yogurt-free, making it perfect for healthy snacks, pre-workout energy, or a cozy autumn brunch.
I make smoothies often, but I realized apples rarely make an appearance. After an apple-picking trip, I wanted a drink that tasted like apple pie—without the banana. Instead of banana or yogurt, this version gets its creaminess from almond butter and soy milk, while Medjool dates add a rich, caramel-like sweetness. A teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice brings all the warm autumn flavors together.
This smoothie is balanced, fruity, creamy, and baked-spice–forward. It’s become my go-to in the fall for a quick, nutritious treat. If you like, add a pinch of vanilla powder for extra depth, but it’s delightful on its own.
Ingredients
Apple: Use a sweet variety such as Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala. Core (and peel if you prefer) before blending.
Soy milk: Unsweetened soy milk adds creaminess and plant protein. Almond, oat, or pea milk work well as alternatives.
Almond butter: Adds a rich, nutty creaminess. Use stirred salted or unsalted almond butter, or substitute tahini if you prefer.
Pumpkin pie spice: A cozy fall spice blend. If you don’t have it, use 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon plus 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg and a pinch each of allspice and cloves.
Medjool dates: These give natural, caramel-like sweetness. If needed, substitute another date variety or 1 to 1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup.
Using Frozen Apples
Frozen apples make a frosty, refreshing smoothie and are an excellent way to preserve a harvest. To freeze, core and chop apples, spread the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze 3–4 hours until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and store up to three months. Use about 1 heaping cup of frozen apple pieces per smoothie.
How to Make an Apple Smoothie
- Core the apple. Remove the core and seeds before blending. Cut the apple into quarters or chop into pieces for easier blending.
- Add ingredients to the blender. Combine the apple pieces, 1 cup soy milk, 1 tablespoon almond butter (or tahini), 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice, and 2 pitted Medjool dates.
- Blend and serve. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into a glass and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice if desired.
Recipe Pro Tips
- High-speed blender: A powerful blender gives an ultra-creamy, frosty result. If you have a standard blender, peeling the apple first can help achieve a smoother texture.
- Enjoy fresh: Apple smoothies are best immediately after blending. Leftovers may separate and lose flavor, so consume within an hour if possible.
Recipe Variations
Try these simple swaps and additions to customize the smoothie:
- Different apples: Use Granny Smith or Braeburn for tartness, or swap in Bartlett or D’Anjou pears for a pear-cinnamon twist.
- Protein boost: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to keep you full longer or aid recovery after workouts.
- Greens: Blend in 1–2 cups of baby spinach or kale for extra nutrients.
- Smoothie bowl: Reduce milk to 1/2 cup and add frozen banana to make a scoopable bowl. Top with chopped apples, cinnamon, and granola.
- Oats: Add a few tablespoons of old-fashioned oats for fiber and plant-based protein.
- More creaminess: Stir in 1 tablespoon coconut milk or include a piece of frozen banana.
- Healthy fats: Blend in 1 tablespoon chia, flax, or hemp seeds for omega-3s and extra nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do not blend whole apples with the core and seeds. Remove the core and any seeds before blending to avoid bitter or fibrous pieces.
For a thinner smoothie, add more milk by the tablespoon. For a thicker texture, add more apple, a chunk of frozen banana, or a small handful of ice.
More Easy Drink Recipes
- Sweet Potato Latte
- Oat Milk Matcha Latte
- Turmeric Latte
- Pineapple Skin Tea
- Hibiscus Elderberry Ginger Tea
Recipe Card
Creamy Apple Smoothie
Equipment
- 1 high-speed blender (recommended)
Ingredients
- 1 sweet apple, cored and quartered or chopped
- 1 cup plain unsweetened soy milk (or almond milk)
- 1 tbsp almond butter (or tahini)
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 2 pitted Medjool dates
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, and enjoy.
Notes
Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, drink within an hour for the best flavor and texture.
Variations: Swap apple varieties for different flavor profiles, add protein powder, greens, oats, or seeds to boost nutrition, or make it scoopable by reducing the milk and adding frozen banana.
Nutrition (approx.)
Calories: 413 | Carbs: 70 g | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 13 g | Fiber: 11 g