Recipeas Worth Repeating: Pumpkin Pie Smoothies
Let’s just wait a minute and take a deep breath before we jump into October. Or as I like to call it, Socktober. Rain and bare feet don’t mix. Mark my words, we’re retiring the flip flops for the season.
But not until we get back from vacation. Or work-cation. We’re taking a little trip to San Diego mid-week to attend and cook at The Gourmet Experience cooking expo. Fabio from Top Chef is going to be there. I want to make him a veggie “boorrger.”
We’ll also be on a little local San Diego TV, because we love a good morning show. (I’ve never done one without a not-so-healthy dose of coffee. Pray for me.)
Since we didn’t get a family vacation this summer, we’re all going for one last dose of vitamin D before we come home and pull out our cable-knit sweaters and jeans. Even Gigi has a new pair of jeans. I don’t know who she is anymore.
When we get back, we’ll make our pumpkin scones and *decaf* pumpkin spice lattes. But for now, we’ll keep on wearing irresponsible footwear, squeeze the last bit of sunshine out of the season, stir a little pumpkin into a smoothie and call it good.
And believe me, you’ll call it good.
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Makes 1
- 1 c. canned pumpkin, frozen into cubes
- 1 c. non-dairy or organic milk
- 2-4 ice cubes
- 1/2 t. vanilla extract
- 3/4 t. cinnamon
- 1/4 t. nutmeg
- 1/2 t. pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 t. garam masala (optional)
- 1/4 t. salt
- 1/2 t. xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
- stevia or sweetener of choice to taste
- 1 graham cracker, crumbled
- 2-3 T. non-dairy or organic whipped topping (i.e. TruWhip, Soyatoo or Rice Whip)
Freeze your pumpkin in an ice cube tray for at least two hours in advance of smoothie preparation. This will mean that you can use less ice in your final product and retain that really great pumpkin flavor.
I can’t think of a drink these wouldn’t taste good in.
Okay, I thought of one: lemonade. Don’t do it.
In a blender, combine pumpkin ice cubes, milk, ice, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, garam masala, salt and xanthan gum, if using.
Blend until thick and creamy.
Pour into a glass and arm yourself with your whipped topping and graham crackers.
Do not squirt Rice Whip directly into your mouth. Or do. Your call.
Carefully sprinkle graham cracker crumbs on top of your smoothie.
Finish with a dash of pumpkin pie spice and a straw.
Because you need to find the most direct route to getting this frozen pumpkin pie in a glass into your face.
Sure, it’s not exactly warm and cozy.
But your taste buds will be on fire.
And if you’re cold, you can always throw on some socks. I’ll loan you a pair.
I won’t need mine until next week.
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I’ll be blogging while we’re gone, though it’ll obviously be a break from the norm around here (whatever that is). Look for Postcards from the Peas as we travel from San Diego to Disney, as well as a couple of planned product reviews with giveaways. And if you have any favorite veg-friendly restaurant or sightseeing suggestions in the San Diego area, we’d love to hear them!
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The winner of the dough ball/autographed book giveaway is:
Mary: Wow, congratulations! Honestly, I can’t think of anything specific for the new cookbook. I loved the first one so much, I would just like more your stories and recipeas. Just for fun, what about some more holiday meal plans?
Email me your address and I will get your book and dough balls on their way! Thanks to all who entered!
Have fun in CA! Wish I would’ve won the dough balls, but this smoothie will ease the sorrow
Okay….. seriously how DID you know I needed this pumpkin recipe right now? I have been craving one of those Dairy Queen blizzards and this will MORE than hit the spot!
Ummm and I think I’m a bit more than prepared here….. I have two cases of pumpkin I bought in preparation for fall…. your pumpkin scones recipe is sitting here with my menu plans for the week……
Thanks Sarah and have a wonderful safe trip!
I am so impressed by your pumpkin hoarding. I hope you love this smoothie!!!
Drat I was hoping I’d strike dough ball gold this time. Oh well. Have a good trip!
I WILL spray rice whip directly into my mouth!
Mmm.
and I will always love the bird’s eye view of an active Vita – love that shot.
this looks fantastic. and you are going to be GREAT without coffee! think of how much energy you get from juice! have a great time!
Thank you! Hope your dad is doing well…I’ve been thinking of you!
I’m in Oregon, too, and I’m very much in denial about fall’s arrival…
So, in an effort to bury my head in the sand, I will definitely have to try this recipe soon! 
Have a wonderful time in Cali! Too bad you can’t bottle up some nice weather and bring it back to us! 
I fully expect to come home to full blown Fall & I’m kind of ready for it!
Well, I’m sure I’ll get more into the idea in a couple of weeks or so… I just feel like we got a little ripped off, since we had such a late start to the sunny, summer weather… But when life gives you lemons, or in this case, pumpkins……. you just gotta make the best of it, right?
OH I am making this first thing tomorrow. Tonight I think I may have pumpkin pie smoothie dreams …
Say HI to Fabio for me. His restaurant Cafe Firenze is in my hometown of Moorpark CA!
He’s so handsome & funny. I will probably not be able to talk in full sentences!
jamba pumpkin smash isnt dairy free, and I just became gluten/dairy free for my health. pumpkin smash is my favorite thing ever. the only thing I could ask for- you have any idea how to do the matcha green tea mist!
I’m on it! (I might have to sample it first…)
its highly delicious, and i take no responsibility if you become addicted. dont let them trick you though, the mist is different from the blast. the blast has tons of fro-yo and is thicker and more calorie dense. (more similar to the frap from starbucks.) the mist is not so rich and very refreshing.
I haven’t made a pumpkin smoothie yet and am now completely craving one. I’m now also craving graham crackers. I think I need to adapt my recipe to be GF! Yay vacation
Ooh, do it!!!
go to evolution in sd!! it’s vegan fast food. you’ve got to try it.. their sweet potato fries are pretty amazing
Thanks! Everyone is suggesting that!
Have a great trip! We were just in San Diego last fall and had some very good food, but of course now I can only remember the names of a few places. Evolution Fast Food has really great soup and kid friendly options for a quick meal. The Mission in Mission Beach is awesome for breakfast, or lunch and I think they have more than one location. We also had awesome Asian-fusion food in Pacific Beach but I can’t remember what it is called. Sorry, not much help here.
No, you are great help–thank you!
Asian fusion food in Pacific Beach is Isabel’s Cantina!
Woops I pressed submit too soon. Isabel’s Cantina is delicious. Olive Cafe in Mission Beach is hands down the best place for breakfast or lunch (both served all day).
Thanks, Pam!!!
Ohh…that looks yummy!
I just made one today, but didn’t think to do graham crackers!! I threw some granola and almond butter on top. 
Have a great time in California, lucky duck!! I think the “grey” has rolled in here in the NW…we might see some sun again in May. 
I got really wet at the soccer game yesterday
I’d say we are in for rain until June.
For SD, try Evolution Fast Food near Balboa Park (better yet, get the food to go and eat it at Balboa Park, which is what I do). It’s all vegan but it’s also all fast food (so it’s definitely a treat). And the most delicious fast food I’ve ever had. Burgers, shakes and awesome sweet potato “fries”.
Fyi there is a chance of rain here mid-week so check the weather before you go
Rain? Boo. Thanks for the tip on Evolution!
I agree with everyone else, Sarah! Evolution is actually the ONLY all vegan restaurant with regular hours in San Diego. Their carob date shake is DELISH!! Here’s their site: http://evolutionfastfood.com/hours-a-location. I hope you have a fantabulous visit to San Diego and I hope to see you Sunday!
I’ve made pumpkin smoothies before and have called them pumpkin pie, but never added graham crackers to the top or used frozen pumpkin cubes! Why didn’t I think of that?! That looks so yummy.
Enjoy San Diego!!! I’m thinking of extending summer and going someplace warmer, too.
Freeze the pumpkin!!! It makes all the difference
Mama Pea! I’m Janetha’s sister that lives in San Diego… I would love to meet up with you if you have time in your schedule. I could bring my three girls or just myself. We love the beaches. Right now is Red Tide in San Diego. I have yet to see it, but the rusty red algae turns the Pacific a murky red during the day. At night, the crashing waves are supposed to be spectacular! They are neon blue. The best place to watch the show is where there have been a large amount of red algae bloom during the day. I’ve heard Torrey Pines was good to see it… and that is close to me.
Here is a link to some veg-friendly restaurants: http://vegsandiego.com/veg/38/Restaurants.htm
Thank you so much! I’ll email you once I see what our schedule looks like!
Also, I just found out that kids go to the Natural History Museum for free in October. That is in Balboa Park. It may be crazy busy, but if you go midweek during school hours you may miss the crowds.
Thank you!
I actually made this for the first time the other day. It was incredible. Like I’ve been thinking about it ever since and have more pumpkin frozen already. I think my husband may be getting concerned with the amount that I’m talking about “mama pea”. Haha.
I get that a lot.
Glad you liked it!!!
I never thought of freezing pumpkin into cubes. What a great idea! So excited you’re coming to San Diego. You’ll have to give us the details on the morning show.
I’m going to try to come see you at the Gourmet Experience- I may have my boys in tow though. 
Actually, the Gourmet Experience is for kids too! I’m having the girls even help me cook! I will definitely fill you in on the TV details as I get them this week
Yumm! that looks awsome! I love anything pumpkin and will get me in the fall mood!
You gotta try Cups La Jolla! Best organic vegan cupcakes in the world!!! They have a mean Brazilian latte as well, buttttttt, since you aren’t drinking coffee right now I won’t mention that one. Also, Tao on Adams Ave. has the best vegan Pho in San Diego- my kids devour it! Taylor Swift was apparently there last week
And if you want the best Italian food on the West Coast, Felippis pizza grotto in Little Italy is the place to go. One last place that has ridiculous good vegan dishes is Indigo Grill in Little Italy as well- they have a dish called “good things growing” that is just to die for- and no animal products! Have fun in the most beautiful city in the U.S.
Thank you so much for the suggestions!!!
If only you came to San Diego a month ago I still would have been there! I moved up to San Luis Obispo for 2nd year of college, so I’m up here though. I hope the weather is good for you, it can get cloudy..
Wahhh mama pea, I’m really excited for the winner, but if the give away was your first book, shouldn’t it be for those who don’t have the book already?
Ps. I’m sure the girls would loveeeee disney! Have they every been before?
I went again about a year ago.in LA, and even as an adult, it was a magical experience
I was extremely impressed by how well thought out most of the rides were.
I’m not sure if the one in sd will have it, but the LA one had a light and water show that had me wow-ing the entire time, even more impressive than the water show in vegas!
We went to Disney last year. We kind of are obsessed.
Yes. Just yes. Time to clear the tomato paste out of my ice cube tray.
Ha ha….ew.
Hey,
I was wondering if you were vegan or vegetarian? You used honey graham crackers and honey isn’t vegan.
Thanks!
I’m vegan, but I don’t mind a little honey here or there. Just my personal choice. I don’t generally cook with it. This actually was for Pea Daddy, anyway and he’s vegetarian
Socktober it is!! These sound absolutely delicious, and I love the graham crackers on top! Guess I’m off to the grocery store to buy some MORE pumpkin!
Seriously!?! This looks like the best thing ever invented. Yum!
have a great time and go to ROXY’s!! I think its a little outside San Diego, maybe near encinitas, but a great mediterrean place with such good veggie platter, hummus, falafel, etc!
Wonderful! Thanks, Linds!
What would you like to know about San Diego….I am here to help, offer personal feedback and take a mental “look” at where you’re staying and tell you if I think a drive to xyz on the other side of the city is worth it or not..that type of thing. If you need any tips, advice, suggestions, just holler on email. It’s just hard to say, oh yes, there is a great restaurant here at x location and you’re staying in y location. Probably not worth a 40 mile drive with 2 kids type thing across the county. Or maybe it is
And every single blog, including my own, lol…has been in full on pumpkin swing lately and I love it. The smoothie looks great. And I am lovin’ the frozen ice cube trick. Score.
I will definitely shoot you an email! Mostly just need dining advice and we are actually staying in two different locations while we are there, so I bet we can hit both sides of the city!
Okay, pumpkin ice cubes is brilliant!! I am so excited to make this!
Oh yes, get excited!
Pumpkin pie smoothies?! Talk about the perfect way to bridge the gap between Summer and Autumn! These look better than any of those Starbucks drinks!
Why thank you!
Pumpkin Pie Smoothies are yummy!!!
Reminds me of Jamba Juice, they have a pumpkin pie smash smoothie out right now!
Have so much fun in SanDiego, when Mike and I went, we had a blast! The gaslamp district is awesome, lots of dining! I know the things we did, I bet there would be a good vegan place in that area, and other areas around, it so beautiful there!
Have a safe trip! xoxo <3
Thanks, Katie! Have a great Monday!
To quote you: Oh. My. Peas. Moan city, right here.
No kidding!
i’ve been obsessively making pumpkin pie protein smoothies lately, but haven’t thought to freeze the pumpkin! sounds amazing…and i think i’ll just go ahead and make on (again!) today
As well you should.
But ALL of your recipeas are worth repeating! Well anyway…guess what’s for breakfast?! Yup, Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Mmmmmmm!!!!! I’m sitting here wondering how on earth my Pumpkin-obsessive self has not made this one yet! I found the others, I mean I made your Pumpkin Curry Tofu for dinner Saturday and was ecstatic that enough was left for dinner last night as well
but somehow I never made this little glass of heaven! I saw your new post last night when I couldn’t fall asleep, so I figured I had 2 options: lie there trying to sleep until I needed to pry myself out of bed to start the week, or get up and freeze some pumpkin in my ice cube trays!! Definitely the later 
Apparently it was meant to be, someone REALLY wanted me to have a Pumpkin Pie Smoothie this morning, because as it turned out, there was half a can of pumpkin in my fridge, and 7 (?) empty slots on my ice cube tray. Perfect. I’ve never been happier to be awake on this little sleep, and no, I haven’t had any coffee!! 
Have the BEST va/work-cation, I’m glad you are getting a bit of time out in CA, you definitely deserve it!! My boyfriend and I were there this summer as well, there are just SO many amazing things to see, I don’t know how much free time you all have but hopefully you’ll be able to explore and have lots of fun! If you have time for the San Diego Zoo, it was amazing…I’m pretty sure we spent like 6 hours there!
Disney and California Adventure Park are of COURSE magical, and cannot be missed!! Your girls will never want to leave. (Except maybe for recipeas… Disneyland is kind of lacking in the food department)
I didn’t come across too many places where the vegan/veg options blew me away, there were some on every menu, but unfortunately the restaurant names all fail me at the moment…. need to finish my vita A packed smoothie
But if you come across any farmers markets or fresh fruit stands, get a bunch!!! The fruit out in CA is so much cheaper, and it is incredible! I think we consumed more fruit in the time span of a week than I usually do in 2 months. And I always eat a lot of fruit! Everything was sweet, fresh, delicious and home-grown 
ENJOY!!! Have a great time and let us know how it goes!!
Wow, I need some of your energy! We went to Disney about a year ago, and I actually did a post on the surprisingly okay vegan options. We’ll see if anything has changed. Enjoy your smoothie
Pumpkin pie smoothies are a fall staple around here. I love that you freeze the pumpkin puree. Great tip!
Thanks…I’m a little proud of that one myself
Congratulations on book #2!!! (tried to respond to that post but I guess the sheer number of comments froze my computer) I’ll confess, I’m a little impatient for it already after seeing those delicious teaser photos! And Kung Pao Tofu? I think my husband would marry you if he weren’t already married to me!
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie….mmmmmmm….thanks for repeating this one…I might have to bust this out for breakfast tomorrow. I have everything except graham crackers and whipped topping (I know, the fun stuff).
Have a safe, fun and wonderful trip!! Can’t wait to read about it!
It’s still delicious without the fun stuff
Thanks for the well wishes on the book and the trip!
Make sure there are always 2 beagle puppies being held behind him! At the perfect moment snatch one for me.
Oh, have fun! I LOVE San Diego!
This pumpkin smoothie looks unbelievable!
torrey pines is an incredible beach with crazy amazing views and perfect for post dinner walking expeditions. when i was there a few years back, we stumbled across baby seals sleeping along the shore and paragliders flying along the cliffs! and i used to live about 30 minutes away from disneyland, so i can attest to it being the best disney park in the world!!! have a great time!!
Thanks, Kelsey. We’ll check out that beach!
Beautiful smoothie!!!!!! I need to find whipped cream …er rice whip…for my breakfasts!!
Ha ha…yes!
I NEVER would have thought of freezing the pumpkin in ice cube trays!!! Brillliant!!
I hope y’all have a great trip!
Thank you, Anna!
Just bought a brick ton of organic pumpkin at TJ’s this weekend…so I’m making this tonight!! Maybe with a scoop of cinnamon protein powder??
Yes, I was going to add that to the recipe…feel free to add a scoop of protein powder to give it some oomph!
Yay for SD!!! Just beware though, we have a cold front coming in MID WEEK this week and lets just say…it may snow in the mountains. so you may still need those jackets, and flip flops because of the rain. make sure to check the forecast!
And SD suggestions? where do i start?! So many vegan restaurants down there! Balboa park is great too as the roses are in bloom and the bonsai garden is absolutely GORGEOUS and serene. I love going there. And there’s the beach obviously. If your’e there Wednesday night, go to Ocean Beach to the pier and hit up the farmers market. Find the woman who makes VEGAN TAMALES. They are to.die.for. you should try and make those for the blog!!!
Okay, we will hunt out this lady! We’re actually getting in town Thursday afternoon, so I’m hoping the sun will be coming back by then!
You just made my day! Seasonal treats are one of the things I miss most about going dairy-free!
Miss it no more!
Wow wow wow. Pumpkin ice cubes?? Absolute GENIUS. I love the way this looks so decadent but is actually nutritious. Starbucks ain’t got nothing on you (OK, maybe they have the coffee
).
Ha ha ha…yeah, they have the coffee.
Have fun in SD!!!! Love that place. We were there this summer. Did the sea world thing and now the kids love dolphins even more. And Yummmm!!
Yeah, we aren’t actually doing Sea World or the zoo.
But I’m hoping there will be other things to see and do anyway!
Have fun on your belated summer vacay, Peas!
I live in San Diego!
You must try http://vegnout.com/ for gourmet vegan burgers, http://ranchoscocina.com/ for vegan mexican food and real whole coconuts for $2 (order a coconut water)..oh and great margaritas, and http://www.obpeoplesfood.coop/ – it’s a store but up stairs they have a vegan deli where everything is SO good. They don’t sell meat in the entire store (they do sell milk and cheese) and have odd ball things.
Have fun in San Diego!
I can’t make it to the Del Mar Fair show that you’ll be at unfortunately – I have a wedding to go to…but it should be nice weather. If you get the chance, take a walk around the Hotel Del if you haven’t already. It’s in Coronado, oh, oh, and if you do that (go to Coronado), go here for lunch/sandwiches: http://www.oliveoilorganiccafe.com/menu.html – you won’t be sorry. Best sandwiches ever.
Oh no! I take it back – I’m watching the news and this week there’s a chance of rain! EEK! Weekend will be nice though.
Oh goodness, thanks so much Andrea! I had both VegNout and Ranchos on my radar but now I have Olive Oil too. Thank you!!!
Enjoy the sunshine! We had a semi-brisk morning today and it was glorious! It made me crave all things fall. I may finally get to enjoy pumpkin this week, as I was holding off until it was under 90 degrees outside.
Have fun!!!! It must be so exciting to get to go so many places and cook your (awesome) food!!!
Here in florida i am so more then ready for fall!!! It was 50 degrees this morning and i was so so happy!!! But its going to be in the mid 80s today so i could still go to the beach if i wanted since there is that little part of me that doesn’t want the warm weather to leave!
I love the idea of freezing the pumpkin! I really need some ice cube trays, now that it’s officially fall and I woke up to temps in the high 60s. I don’t know where I live anymore… I’m sure the Florida heat will be back to the 90s by the end of the week though :/ definitely need that ice cube tray
Yes, you do! (they are super cheap too)
I refuse to retire my flip flops for the season. It’s rainy and chilly here today. Hurricane Ophelia has dumped some not so pleasant weather on us the past weekend but I will not wear socks quite yet!
This recipe looks amazing. I’m going to go freeze some pumpkin immediately!
Ahh yes, do it!!!
I never thought to freeze the pumpkin!! I hadn’t found a way to make a pumpkin smoothie without using a frozen banana but this is perfect!
I don’t like bananas in my pumpkin
That is most DEFINITELY a recipe worth repeating!! I love the crumbled graham cracker on the top. PERFECT topper.
I would love to try this recipe! It sounds delicious and I love the toppings that you put on top of it too! Brilliant.
Check out USS Midway if you have a chance. http://www.midway.org/ Restored aircraft from World War II to more recent are on display at the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum plus several climb-aboard cockpits and aircraft. Of course a girl can’t forget Carlsbad outlet mall http://www.premiumoutlets.com/carlsbad/
Have fun!
Thank you, Doris!!!
I had to retire my flip flops for the season after the strap completely snapped on my trip to Seaside last weekend. The only pair of shoes I had brought for the quick day trip….Fun!
Smoothies are the best – no matter the weather outside, they never go out of style!
Oh no! Hope you didn’t have to go barefoot
Stopped at the Rite Aid and dug through their bins of sandals. Eventually found the one and only pair of 9′s in the pile of 6′s and 7′s. Ugliest shoes I have ever bought, but thankfully they were 80% off and I got them for less than $3.
LOL!!!
I AM GREEN WITH ENVY! I can’t believe you get to meet Fabio. He is one of my favourite Top Chef chefs by far. I hope that your trip is awesome, and they you soak up as much sun as possible! I am with you though, it is cloudy and rainy here in Vancouver, and I am still optimistically wearing my flip flops too. I really really do not want to let them go!
you are a perfect human for putting this recipea up
Ha ha ha!
Yummy! I was a bit late to the pumpkin party this year and only made my first pumpkin dish this past weekend, perfecting some healthier Starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffins I’m posting tomorrow. But I have leftover pumpkin and this smoothie might just be the perfect accompaniment to one of those muffins!
Plus, it seems that half the world is experiencing a major Indian summer (my brother called and told me it was 85 degrees F in London two days ago) so you know, this is probably right up their alley. (So jealous).
omgshh Disney?~~ You’re going to be only 18-20 minutes from me!!! 0_0 haha I wish I could sneak into Disney and say “hi”
And danngggg this smoothie looks sooo good….
oh for SD, obviously you have to go to La Jolla Beach! Also, Sea World if you guys like.
Oh! Or SD wild park?
I am SO happy you posted this! I was literally thinking today that I need a pumpkin pie smoothie recipe
Thank you!!
I turn into a pumpkin-freak this time of year, I just bought canned pumpkin at Trader Joes’s this morning. This is right up my alley!
When I read the bit about you going on a SD local TV show, all I could think of was Will Ferrell in Anchorman. I will FedEx you coconut chai if you say “Stay classy, San Diego,” right into the camera.
And for that matter, you will give new meaning to the famous line, “Milk was a bad choice!”
And if you’ve never seen Anchorman…hi wow that smoothie looks amazing have a great day!
I so hope I have the opportunity…I’ll totally say that (you know I will).
I know you have a ton of suggestions already, but I live in SD and have scoped out many veg-friendly places! I know quite a few people have said Evolution Fast Food…they are really good (get the sweet potato fries!), but definitely more of a fast food place. For a sit-down restaurant, my favorite is Ranchos Cocina in North Park (the corner of 30th and University) – if you want some DELISH Mexican food, and a place that happily serves vegetarian and vegan options (they have Diaya Cheese!), it’s a must. A beautiful little restaurant too, with lots of Frida Kahlo portriats on the walls. Veg-N-Out in North Park is also super good…oh and the Loving Hut for vegan Asian fusion food…ok I’ll stop now
Enjoy your time here!
Thank you so much for the suggestions, Heather! They are all now on my list. I can’t wait!!!
Have so much fun in San Diego! I was there earlier this summer. Absolutely gorgeous.
Pumpkin ice cubes? Sounds like a dream come true!
Throw in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder for some extra chocolatey goodness!!
We went to San Diego last October and loved it! Have fun! Meanwhile, I’m home with a bad head cold/flu = boo. This pumpkin pie smoothie looks fabulous, though it may have to wait until I’m feeling better!
Oh dear…get well quickly!
Have the best time in Disney! The cold weather just started and I’m already craving some more warm weather!
And that pumpkin pie smoothie looks amazing! The green straw totally made me think Starbucks. How incredibly branded are they?
It’s the green straw from my Starbucks travel mug
Mmm! can’t wait to make this. freezing the pumpkin right now, but how much sweetener did you use for this? i’m thinking i’ll need some since pumpkin is usually pretty weird tasting without a little sweetener. i know you mention stevia or other sweetener but how much do you reccomend?
It depends on if you are using pure stevia (about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon) or the packets (maybe 3 or 4 packets for the batch?).
I made a pumpkin pie smoothie last week, but did not freeze the pumpkin. Clutch move right there, MP, as always!
Wait. Rice Whip. What? You mean there’s a non-soy, vegan whipped topping-in-a-can that I didn’t know about?! AHH!
Yes! I know, right? You need this….it’s pretty tasty
Mmmhmm. Good thing I have 3 cans of pumpkin on the shelf right now! Looks amazing!
Oh mama pea….. This weekend I made your vegan pumpkin cinnamon rolls naturally followed by dough balls. My first time ever making them. I don’t know if I should hug you or make you buy me some new pants….
)
I’ll just say thank you and wake up early for a run tomorrow
(the fiancee loved as well and then I threw in the “ha! It’s vegan”)
I’m excited to see if you have any other pumpkin recipes up those sleeves of yours….
I love me some pumpkin shake action! I didn’t know TJ’s made WG graham crax. Another item added to the list…
If you like coconut, I highly recommend using the So Delicious coconut milk as the liquid, and adding shredded coconut on top too. Pumpkin-coconut is a beloved obsession of mine
That sounds great! Lulu is in love with the So Delicious chocolate coconut milk. Yet she thinks she hates coconut.
Yay! I’m a vegetarian living in San Diego and am so excited that you’ll be here! There are some great suggestions already posted. If you just walk around the neighborhoods of Hillcrest, North Park, South Park (my ‘hood!) or University Heights, you’ll find tons of great options. Also, this place in Normal Heights is pretty darn good – http://www.jyotibihanga.com. How many days will you be here? There are farmers markets all over pretty much everyday, and the Hillcrest market on Sundays is pretty epic. If you end up in La Jolla, this place has the best falafel EVER – http://www.marketplacegrille.com/index.html. Have fun!!!
We will just be there Thursday through Sunday. We’ll be headed to the La Jolla area for the weekend! Thank you!
Yummmmmmmmmm pumpkinlicious! Thank you for sharing those recipes. I love your repeats since I never saw them the first time around. Thank you. Have a fun and safe trip!
I have been a little pumpkin crazy lately, adding it to everything, so this post is perfect. I just put some pumpkin in the freezer and will be having a pumpkin smoothie for breakfast.
Confession. I got a pumpkin spice late for the first time EVER today. It was decaf, only had one pump of syrup and was made with soy milk, but I STILL felt guilty paying $3.75 for something I could have made at home even better! I’m not gonna lie…it was pretty good. But I would take my own pumpkin smoothie over that any day
First time EVER? Well, I’m glad you enjoyed it…they are mighty tasty.
MAN, does that smoothie ever look amazing. I think I just drooled on my keyboard a little.
Have a great vacay!
Funny timing, because I just had my first butternut squash smoothie of the season and was remembering how, last year at this time, I could drink nothing else! Your recipe is lovely, and great minds think alike.
Check out the Sipz Cafe (all vegetarian) and Pizza Fusion for dessert (They have wonderful gluten free vegan brownies.)
Weeellll I don’t know what they serve or what they do in there but there’s a restaurant called “hash house a-go-go” that *always* has a big freakin line coming out its doors. There are vegan restaurants called “Luvin Hut”s ( I don’t know what they do in there either
and there’s a vegan store http://www.allveganshopping.com/ in my old neighborhood. Just if you’re looking to kill some time. Sight seeing………down by the bay. It’s a wonderful walk around and you can see the big aircraft carriers and my favorite statue ever, which is a giant sailor and nurse kissing like the famous post-war photo. Balboa Park is awesome. Museums and flowers and musicians and food…hopefully I’m not writing all this too late but enjoy your time down here in San Diego 
I am sure you have already seen this….but just in case you haven’t I thought I would pass it on. Ellen featured you on her blog. Pretty cool! Here’s the link: http://vegan.ellen.warnerbros.com/blog/great_new_recipe_blog_0809.php
I made this last night for my husband. We love it!!!
Seriously.
So good.
Definitely a new favorite.
Mama Pea,
I’ve frozen pumpkin before, but I’m never sure how much to add… How many cubes would you say equal 1 cup?
I had NO idea that there was an alternative to Reddi whip. That’s awesome..now I can down the whole can without stomach issues..perfect
& I really need to try this recipe..just need to pick up an ice try.
Awesome, love it even more than pumpkin pie. Thanks!!!
I do have to say that my favorite vegetable is broccoli, and I would eat it anywhere, pretty much anyhow. My favorite way is stir-fried with tofu. A funny broccoli story: while traveling in the upper peninsula of Michigan in the summer of 1999, I went about 20 miles out of my way to reach a restaurant marked on our AAA map. We got to the place and it turned out to be a bar. The only green vegetable on the menu was “fried broccoli,” so I asked the waitress if I could just get some plain broccoli. She looked at me, seeming not to understand what I was getting at, and I repeated that I’d like the broccoli, just not fried. She told me it was impossible, because it “comes that way.” Mmmm. Greens. I think I ordered a grilled cheese.
p.s. I can’t find where to comment on the games and books post.
I just have to say that you made my day. Forget that, you made my entire year! I love, love pumpkin but most of my pumpkin temptations are not very healthy. I made this tonight & it’s honestly the best pumpkin shake I’ve ever had. I used Very Vanilla Silk & it turned out so creamy you would think it was ice-cream. Thanks for sharing.
*I have your cookbook on order & I can’t wait to get it!
Kasie, I’m so thrilled you made this and that you loved it! I do too
Guess what’s for dessert?
You are genius! I never thought about freezing the pumpkin. This would have solved my pumpkin smoothie disaster last week. Thank you!
Genius idea on freezing the pumpkin to make pumpkin smoothies a bit easier!
There is a spot in the La Jolla Cove called the Kid’s Pool. It is a stinky, but gorgeous spot where you can see all the local seals and the young pups. It is completely free and provides some great views. Just find free parking along the street and follow your nose.
I just checked out TruWhip at my local natural food store, and it has casein listed as one of the ingredients! I’m all Grr, b/c I look for vegan options for my 10 year old son with anaphylaxis to all dairy, egg and peanuts. I was really hoping that this time, *this time* I would find whip that worked for us.
Try Rice or Soy Whip! Both taste great!
you just blew my mind with the pumpkin ice cubes! i am ALWAYS left with leftover pumpkin that i toss–something so simple but so useful. thank you!
I live in SD and will try to see you this weekend with my kids. I’m so excited!!! If you have a chance to go to Encinitas (I live there) there’s a restaurant called Ki’s on the coast. It has ocean views and amazingly healthy food. Encinitas is the health food haven of SD. There’s a whole foods just up the street from there too so you can pack your bags with more healthy stuff!
Have a great vacay…tho I wouldn’t hold out for too much warmth. We just had some cold rain come in. Yuck. If you need to borrow socks just let me know!
Kathy
I hope you are able to make it to the expo! Thanks so much for the restaurant tips!
If you guys head up towards Disney, you need to check out Native Foods or Veggie Grill while you’re in SoCal! They are two very delicious vegan chains up here that we love. Let me know if you need any more suggestions!
I definitely want to go to Native Foods! We are getting one in Portland soon.
The sweet potato fries are amazing! I hope you enjoy it!
So excited you are coming to SD, I have told all of my friends and we will come on Sunday. Evolution Foods is terrible as are most vegan restaurants in SD, do not drag your family downtown for that! Naked Cafe has many vegan offerings and there is one about 5 minutes from the Expo in Solana Beach and it is right across from the beach called Fletcher Cove: Love love Love it!
Naked Cafe
(858) 259-7866
106 S Sierra Ave
Solana Beach, CA 92075
THENAKEDCAFE.COM
Great for breakfast or lunch
I know you had mentioned you have been to True Food Kitchen in Scottsdale and there is one 45 minutes North on the 5 freeway at Fashion Island Mall (Bloomies, Neiman’s, Nordstrom oh yah!). I go with my husband and kids quite frequently and it is always delish! I live right by Del Mar so if you need any suggestions don’t hesitate to contact me by email or phone 858/922-4157. I commented once that your Chocolate Peanut butter
Oats are my favorite breakfast (and still are!). Good luck and I look forward to meeting you and your family:)
GAH! We went to Evolution Food, and actually what I got was great! (salad + juice) We went to Loving Hut tonight and it also was phenomenal. I think we will try to hit True Food on our way to LA on Sunday, but I will definitely check out Naked Cafe too. Please, please, please say hello on Sunday. I can’t wait to meet you too!
I finally made this tonight and WE LOVED IT. Oh my it was SO good. THANK YOU THANK YOU!
Yay! So glad you liked it, Jill!
I just made this and it’s almost perfect. I have no whipped topping to put on and that would totally hook this smoothie up. Great recipea, Mama Pea! Adding whipped topping to the grocery list now!
Put in bowl and served as ice cream to my kids, they LOVED it!!
Such a great idea!!!
How did you know I needed this recipe? Seriously, I love all that fall has to bring and this is my first fall as a vegan – can’t wait to try this recipe! Thank you.
Hope you love it!!!
I’m curious, what kind of blender do you use? I’m thinking of upgrading and shopping around. Thanks, I can’t wait to make this!
I have a Vitamix. It’s an investment…but I literally use it 4-5 times a day.
Hey this smoothie made my Friday Five list!! Thanks so much for sharing!
http://semihealthnut.blogspot.com/2011/10/friday-five-foodie-finds-6-happy.html