Pumpkin Pie Collagen Smoothie

Since pumpkin spice lattes get all the attention during fall AND because it's the end of September and STILL 90 degrees here in Houston, I wanted to pay tribute to the pumpkin pie; specifically in the form of an ice cold smoothie. This recipe takes on all the flavors of pumpkin pie; including the graham cracker crust but without the use of grains! A combination of almond meal or flour and almond butter is used in this smoothie to mimic a pumpkin pie crust. Real pumpkin puree, creamy coconut milk and pumpkin pie spice are also included to create all the flavors of pumpkin pie but inside a smoothie! 

GATHER

1/2 cup organic canned pumpkin 

1/3 cup full fat canned coconut milk 

1/2 cup filtered water

1-2 scoops Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

1 tbsp almond butter

2 tbsp almond meal or almond flour

2 dates, pitted

1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 tbsp real maple syrup or to taste

1 pinch sea salt

1/2 cup or more ice 

MAKE

Begin by softening dates in warm water to ensure they blend well in your smoothie. Dry off date with paper towel before adding to your blender with your other ingredients. Add all ingredients to your blender with the exception of your filtered water. Begin to blend ingredients in blender while gradually adding water and ice to thin to desired consistency. Top with whipped coconut cream, shredded coconut or cinnamon and enjoy!