Pumpkin Pie Smoothie!

I have said this a million times before, but I will say it again: I. LOVE. FALL! Not just for the weather or for the colors.

I think you know what I am talking about! The food and drinks!

 I know that many of you wait all year for the release of Starbucks' seasonal pumpkin spice latte. Although I do love a good pumpkin-flavored beverage that includes caffeine, I have decided that I will not be buying any from Starbucks this year.

You may have read several articles (stemmed from this one) that have stated that this seasonal favorite does not include the most ingredient of all: PUMPKIN! That instantly turned me off! I have lived on a farm my entire life and we have grown pumpkins every year. I have invested time into cooking these bad boys and making pumpkin puree. I have used it for my own pies and other seasonal desserts. The taste of fresh pumpkin puree is like no other! So when I heard that Starbucks didn't even use puree, I was really disappointed.

I decided to invest my time and money into my own creation using actual pumpkin! It may not contain caffeine, but it is a delicious (and healthier) treat for any time of the day! You can enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or even a meal replacement!

Pumpkin Pie Protein Smoothie

Ingredients

•  1 Scoop (about 50g) of Vanilla Shakeology
• 2 TBSP Libbey's Pumpkin Puree
• 1 C Almond Milk (I used 1/2 almond and half water since I had vanilla almond milk)
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 8-10 Ice Cubes

The easiest directions in the world: Throw it all in a blender and let 'er rip!

I drank this gorgeous beverage in no time and felt no remorse!!! It is just under 250 calories, so what is there to feel guilty about?!