Healthy Apple Pie Smoothie | High Protein and No Banana

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Apple Pie Smoothie

f you love cozy fall flavors but want something light and nourishing, this smoothie is for you. It tastes like apple pie — but it’s a smoothie. And it’s high in protein, naturally sweetened, and ready in minutes.

Here’s why I think you’ll love it:

• Tastes like dessert, but it’s good for you.
• Packed with protein from cottage cheese.
• No banana needed — perfect for those who don’t love banana in smoothies.
• Naturally sweetened or easily adjustable to your taste.
• Great for breakfast or post-workout.
• Quick and easy — ready in under 5 minutes.
• Low sugar, high protein smoothie you’ll want on repeat.

How to Make a Healthy Apple Pie Smoothie

Watch the full video recipe to learn how to make this easy apple pie cottage cheese smoothie from start to finish:

Prefer the written recipe? Scroll down to the recipe box 👇

Ingredient Notes

Let’s break down what goes into this smoothie that tastes like apple pie:

• Apple – I usually go for a sweet, crisp apple like Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp. No need to peel it unless you prefer a smoother texture.
• Cottage cheese – The secret to a super creamy, high protein smoothie without using protein powder. You can use full-fat or low-fat based on your goals.
• Milk of choice – Almond, oat, cashew, soy, coconut, or regular dairy milk — all work great. I often go with almond milk for a lighter feel.
• Cinnamon – This is where the apple pie magic kicks in. Add more if you love warm spice.
• Vanilla extract – A splash of vanilla adds that bakery-style flavor.
• Optional sweetener – Depending on your apple’s sweetness, you might not need it. But you can add maple syrup, honey, dates, or stevia.

This is just a short review of the ingredients; for the complete recipe, including quantities, scroll down to the recipe card 👇

Substitutes and Variations

This healthy smoothie is super customizable. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Dairy-Free Option: Use unsweetened almond milk and silken tofu instead of cottage cheese.
• Greek Yogurt Swap: No cottage cheese? Greek yogurt or quark works too!
• Low-Sugar Option: Skip sweeteners or use stevia or monk fruit.
• Oats or Chia Add-in: For extra fiber and thickness, add 1–2 tablespoons of oats or chia seeds.
• Apple Pie Protein Shake: Add a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon protein powder.
• Warm Spice Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for that classic fall spice blend.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Smoothie

I’ve made cottage cheese smoothies more times than I can count — including on video for my YouTube channel where millions have seen them — and here’s what I’ve learned:

• Use a high-speed blender to get the creamiest texture.
• Taste before adding sweetener — some apples are sweet enough on their own.
• Adjust liquid as needed — start with less and add more to reach your ideal consistency.
• For extra chill: Add a few ice cubes or use a frozen apple slice.
• Meal prep tip: You can pre-chop and freeze apples in advance for quick blending.

How to Store

This apple pie smoothie is best enjoyed right after blending for maximum creaminess. But if you want to save it:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight jar or bottle for up to 24 hours. Shake well before drinking.
• Freezer: You can freeze in an ice cube tray and re-blend with a splash of milk when ready.
• Meal Prep Tip: Pre-measure your ingredients into containers (minus liquid), and blend when needed.

FAQs