Pumpkin Cheesecake Smoothie

Do you have those moments when you want to step out and try something new.  Something from a different cuisine, a new recipe, a new ingredient; something you’ve never had before and possibly aren’t very comfortable with?  I have those moments quite often, Spencer would say I push the boundaries from time to time.  But about 95% of the time we’re both glad I stepped outside my comfort zone.

This was one of those times I really wanted to take that step.  Why, you ask?  Well, for this month’s secret recipe club assignment I was give a blog that will take your taste buds all around the world.  Tara’s Multicultural Table definitely lives up to the name, it’s packed with amazing recipes from all over and they all sound incredible.  From her beautifully fluffy Brusselse Wafles, Hortobagy Palacsinta (Hungarian stuffed crepes), caramelle (pasta stuffed with sweet potato) and cioccolata calda (Italian hot chocolate with orange whipped cream)…and that’s just a glimpse into what she has to offer.  All of her recipes look so good, so be sure to head over there and check them all out!

I jumped from one recipe to the other and then I came across it.  It.  A smoothie, which you all know is one of my favorite things ever.  But not just any smoothie, a pumpkin cheesecake smoothie!  What, are you kidding me?  When I read the title, it’s like the clouds opened up and the sun was shining down on me!

My search was over and I knew I had to make this smoothie, and now.  So, unfortunately I didn’t step out of my little comfort zone and try something new.  But, I did however, discover a new and current favorite breakfast smoothie!

Folks, this smoothie is incredible.  It’s thick, rich, creamy, full of pumpkin pie flavor and topped with a sprinkle of graham crackers.  In the words for Tara’s husband, it’s like drinking a slice of pumpkin pie!

We’re quickly embarking on turkey day.  Yes, t-minus 4 days and counting!  Anyway, we’re days away from the big day and I know there’s planning, prepping and baking going on right now.  I guarantee pumpkin pies are definitely in the works.  So, when getting that puree ready for those pies, reserve a scoop to make this incredible smoothie.  It’s a way to get your pie fix a few days ahead of time…without all the guilt.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Smoothie

Ingredients:


3/4 Cup milk
1/4 Cup pumpkin puree, frozen or refrigerated
1 Small ripe frozen banana, chopped
1/4 Cup quick oats
1/4 Greek yogurt
1 Oz cream cheese
2-3 Tbsp honey
1/2 Tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/8 Tsp cinnamon
Graham crackers, for topping, optional
Whipped cream, for topping, optional.

Directions:


Combine milk, pumpkin, banana, oats, yogurt, cream cheese and spices in a blender.  Blend until smooth.  Transfer to a cup, top with graham crackers and whipped if desired and serve.

Recipe source: barely adapted Tara’s Multicultural Table