Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Smoothies are definitely a staple in my house. It is not uncommon for us to have one every day, especially since I find them to be the perfect opportunity for me to load them up with as many nutrient dense foods as possible. I not only want them to taste delicious but I also want them to be nutritious, as well! After all, that is basic foundation for all things that are created in the #Healthymommamanda kitchen. And this Salted Caramel Apple Smoothie meets those standards. The best part about this recipe is that it actually happened on accident. I had a few red apples that were on the cusp of going bad, so I decided to experiment with them in my afternoon smoothie. Apples are a fruit that we often eat in our house but we just don’t use them often in our smoothies, so I was really hoping this recipe would turn out to be a SUCCESS. And to my surprise it was!
The inspiration behind this creamy, salty, caramel-y, apple smoothie recipe came from my love for the good ole caramel apple, but this version is WAY healthier! I really love being able to recreate traditional foods and make them more nutritious, without compromising on the flavor. The texture of this smoothie is perfect too. It is light and creamy and not overpowering with apple flavor, which I like. It is also pretty hearty as well. You can enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack or even after a work out.
Now, let’s talk about the ingredients. If you know me by now, you’ll know that most of my recipes are #dairy free, #gluten free and #refined sugar free and this recipe is no exception. At first sip, you might even feel like you’re indulging in a not so healthy treat but it is far from it. The ingredients I used in this recipe are the following:
I used unsweetened almond milk for my base. It is one of my favorite nut milks to use bc of its mild flavor and it’s creaminess. Be sure to buy unsweetened nut milks because the added sugars are unnecessary.
I used one organic red fuji apple (you can use any red apple of your choice). Make sure to peel it and get rid of the core for better texture. A bonus is that they not only taste yummy but they are also rich in many vitamins, antioxidants and dietary fiber, so yay for that!
For the sweetener and for my “caramel flavor” I used one of my favorite natural sweeteners, dates. When blended they create a flavor and texture that is very similar to caramel but without all that yucky stuff! They are also full of nutrients and fiber making it the more obvious, better choice!
I also added Organic Gluten Free Rolled Oats to give this smoothie a thicker texture and more heartiness. Adding oats to your smoothie you leave you feeling full for longer.
Lastly I added raw almond butter, which is my favorite nut butter to add to my smoothies. It has a pretty mild-nutty flavor and while also providing you with healthy fats and protein.
*A great option that you can add to this smoothie is an Organic Vanilla Plant Based Protein Powder, such as my favorite one from Truvani. Adding this won’t change the texture or the flavor much, but it WILL add some additional protein, making it a more well rounded smoothie. This would be perfect after a work out or on those busy mornings where you might not have a lot of time to prepare a meal.
Oh and I haven’t mentioned this already, it is toddler approved! My little man could not get enough! *His was made without protein powder*
Recipe:
Ingredients :
- 10 oz or 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or nut milk of choice)
- 1/2 c gluten free rolled oats
- 1 large red apple, cored and peeled
- 2 pitted dates
- 1 tbsp raw almond butter
- 1 tsp- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Pinch of Himalayan sea salt
- Handful of ice
- *optional* – organic plant based protein of choice
Instructions:
- Place all ingredients into a high speed blender, placing your liquid first, and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Enjoy!