Cinnamon Apple Smoothie Recipe Low Calorie Protein Shake

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect blend of creamy goodness and wholesome ingredients that keep me energized and feeling my best. Plus, the combo of cinnamon and vanilla makes me feel like I’m indulging in a treat, while still being super healthy!

There is nothing better to me than a nutritious way to start the day. This smoothie is a perfect pick.

I use a medium apple, which delivers the natural sweetness I crave in the morning. To the apple, I add unsweetened almond milk, along with plain Greek yogurt.

Both are protein-rich and satisfyingly creamy; neither is high in calories. Next up: a scoop of vanilla protein powder.

And the star ingredient for texture and taste? Almond butter.

Ground cinnamon and a hint of vanilla extract tie everything together.

Ingredients

Apple:
Dietary fiber contributes much to the natural sweetness of this food, giving it a fresh, crisp flavor.

Unsweetened Almond Milk:
Contains few calories and almost no sugar; perfect for when you want a creamy product that has a not-too-strong flavor.

Plain Greek Yogurt:
It provides a creamy texture and a tangy flavor, all while being loaded with protein and probiotics.

Vanilla Protein Powder:
Increases protein levels, aiding in the recovery of muscles and the feeling of fullness.

Ground Cinnamon:
Imparts warmth and flavor, with perhaps some antioxidant benefits.

Almond Butter:
Adds a nutty richness, providing healthy fats and protein.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 medium apple, cored and chopped
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• 1/2 cup ice cubes
• Optional: Sweetener to taste (such as honey or stevia)

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the apple that has been minced.

2. Add the unsweetened almond milk.

3. Place the plain Greek yogurt into the blender.

4. Scoop the protein powder made from vanilla.

5. Dust the ground cinnamon over the other components.

6. Include the vanilla extract to evoke a subtle hint of flavor.

7. Almond butter adds a creaminess that nature intended.

8. Add the ice cubes to chill and thicken the smoothie.

9. Combine all the ingredients and beat them at high speed until they are completely smooth and creamy.

10. Adjust the sweetness to your preference. If you like it sweet, add some honey or stevia and blend briefly again. Serve it right up, and enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Blender
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Knife (for chopping and coring the apple)
5. Cutting board
6. Spoon or scoop (for measuring almond butter and protein powder)

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of milk?Indeed, you can replace the unsweetened almond milk with any other type of milk. This includes plant-based options like soy or oat milk, as well as cow’s milk.
• What type of apple works best for this smoothie?A variety of apple that is both sweet and crisp, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, works well, but you can use your favorite type.
• Is it necessary to use protein powder?Adding protein powder to the smoothie contributes protein. If you have no protein powder or would rather use something else, feel free to leave it out or use a protein-rich alternative, like silken tofu.
• Can I make this smoothie vegan?Absolutely! To make it a vegan recipe, substitute a plant-based yogurt, like coconut or almond yogurt, for the regular yogurt, and make sure your protein powder is plant-based and not whey.
• How do I adjust the sweetness level?If desired, you can add a sweetener to taste, such as honey, agave syrup, or a sugar-free choice like stevia.
• Can I prepare this smoothie in advance?Although it is best consumed fresh, you can keep the smoothie in the fridge for up to one day. Give it a good stir before drinking. It may separate while sitting, and if so, it will look more like a layer cake than a smoothie when you first open the container.
• Is the almond butter necessary?Creamy and healthfully fatty, almond butter could be omitted from this recipe or replaced with any other nut or seed butter.

Substitutions and Variations

To unsweetened almond milk, substitute soy milk or coconut milk for a different flavor profile.
Substitute non-dairy yogurt for plain Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a non-dairy, protein-rich option.
Substitute chocolate protein powder for vanilla to offer a flavor twist.
Pumpkin pie spice is a delightful seasonal twist on ground cinnamon.
If you prefer the flavors of peanut butter or cashew butter, you can use them in place of almond butter.

Pro Tips

1. Freeze the Apple For an even colder and thicker smoothie, freeze the chopped apple pieces beforehand. This will enhance texture and reduce the need for ice, intensifying the flavors.

2. Almond Butter Tip To make blending easier and ensure the almond butter fully incorporates, slightly warm it in the microwave for a few seconds before adding it to the blender.

3. Blending Order For optimal blending, layer the ingredients starting with the liquid (almond milk), then softer ingredients (yogurt and almond butter), followed by the solids (apple, protein powder, cinnamon, and ice). This prevents the protein powder from sticking to the sides and ensures a smooth blend.

4. Flavor Variations Add a few spinach leaves or a small handful of kale for a nutrient boost without altering the flavor significantly. You can also try adding a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth in taste.

5. Adjust Consistency If the smoothie ends up too thick, gradually add more almond milk until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, blend in more ice or a few frozen banana slices to thicken it up.