Apple and Banana Smoothie

If you're craving a quick, nutritious, and fall-inspired start to your day, this apple and banana smoothie is just the thing! Made with 7 simple ingredients, it’s creamy, packed with plant-based protein, and comes together in under 5 minutes. Enjoy it for a no-fuss breakfast or post-workout boost!

Flavored with almond butter and cinnamon, this banana and apple smoothie is about to be your new fall go-to! And if you want another seasonal smoothie, try my pumpkin spice protein shake.

Why I Love This Recipe

I make this apple and banana smoothie almost daily! With just a few basic fruits (everyone has some apples and bananas lying around), soy milk, and a dash of cinnamon, it tastes like a slice of apple pie in a glass but is healthy enough for on-the-go breakfasts.

Simply toss everything into a blender, and you’re done in 5 minutes—perfect for busy mornings when you need something quick but nourishing.

Adding protein powder and almond butter is a great way to sneak in more nutrients. Plus, kids love the classic apple-banana flavor combination! Whether you're rushing out the door or just want an afternoon pick-me-up, this smoothie hits the spot every time.

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this apple and banana smoothie.

• Banana: Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture. I recommend using a frozen banana to make the smoothie cold and thick.
• Apple: Provides a fresh, crisp flavor and extra fiber. Any variety will work here, but I love sweeter options like Fuji and Gala.
• Soy Milk: You’ll need plain, unsweetened soy milk for the smoothie base.
• Protein Powder: Boosts the protein content of this banana and apple smoothie, helping keep you full for longer. Unflavored or vanilla varieties work best here.
• Almond Butter: Adds healthy fats and a rich, nutty taste. It also enhances the smoothie's creamy consistency. Feel free to use raw or roasted almond butter.
• Flaxseeds: For a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the banana and apple.

Substitutions

• Banana: You can try steamed and frozen sweet potato chunks in equal amounts for a similar sweetness and creaminess.
• Soy Milk: If you don’t have soy milk, almond, oat, or coconut milk will all work, too.
• Protein Powder: No protein on hand? Add a spoonful of hemp seeds, chia seeds, or almonds for extra protein and nutrients.
• Almond Butter: For a different flavor profile, substitute peanut butter or cashew butter. If you need a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter.
• Flaxseeds: Chia seeds or hemp seeds will also work in the same amount. Note that chia seeds can make the smoothie thicker if left sitting out.
• Cinnamon Powder: Nutmeg, allspice, apple pie spice, and pumpkin spice all pair well with this smoothie! Mix and match different combinations to see what you like best.

How to Make

This smoothie is so quick and easy to whip up anytime you need a nutritious treat! Follow my tips for the best results.

Preparation

If not already frozen, peel a ripe banana, slice it, and place it in the freezer for at least 2 hours or overnight. Core the apple and cut it into small chunks (you can peel it for a smoother texture or leave the skin on for extra fiber).

Assembly

Step 1
Add soy milk and fruit chunks to a high-speed blender. Adding liquid early prevents the ingredients from sticking to the sides and ensures everything blends evenly. 

Step 2
Next, add the protein powder, almond butter, flax seeds, and cinnamon. Start blending on a low speed to combine the ingredients, then gradually increase to high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.

Step 3
If it's too thick, add more soy milk and blend again briefly. Serve your apple and banana smoothie in a large glass garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few apple slices on top!

Expert Tip

The secret to the creamiest banana and apple smoothie is all about freezing your bananas! Not only does this chill the smoothie without watering it down, but it also makes it incredibly thick and creamy without needing to add a ton of ice.

And from my own experience, I've found that using a high-speed blender is best for mixing tough ingredients like flaxseeds. It completely breaks them down, releasing all their omega-3 fatty acids and fiber (you get that extra nutritional boost without any gritty texture).

Recipe Tips

• Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas are sweeter and blend more smoothly, so make sure they’re nice and spotty before freezing them.
• Soak Your Seeds: If you don't have a high-speed blender, you can soak the flaxseeds in soy milk for 10 minutes before blending to soften them.
• Clean Blender Immediately: Rinse and clean your blender right after use. Dried-on smoothie remnants can be quite the challenge to remove later!

Frequently Asked Questions

Storing

This apple and banana smoothie is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, follow these guidelines.

Fridge
You can store the smoothie in the fridge for a short period. Pour it into an airtight container or glass jar with a lid, and it will last about 24 hours. Just shake it or stir it before drinking.

Freezer
Freezing this smoothie is also an option for longer storage. I recommend pouring it into ice cube trays and then transferring the cubes to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. You can use the smoothie cubes to chill your next batch!

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