“What a deliciously cozy smoothie! Tastes like a fresh slice of pumpkin pie, but healthier.”
🙂 Astrud
Pumpkin D-Lite, a copycat Smoothie King recipe, is a creamy, spice-infused treat that blends the rich flavor of pumpkin with the natural sweetness of dates, all carried by the lightness of nonfat milk. A scoop of whey protein powder makes it an excellent post-workout option or a satisfying snack, while a dash of pumpkin spice and a swirl of vanilla nonfat frozen yogurt add a delicious complexity reminiscent of a classic autumn pie, making it a delightful, guilt-free indulgence for those crisp fall days.
This smoothie isn’t just about indulging your autumn cravings, it’s loaded with health benefits too. Pumpkin puree is high in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, which support vision, skin health, and the immune system. Dates are a natural sweetener packed with fiber, promoting digestive health. Nonfat milk provides calcium and protein without the added fat, and whey protein powder supports muscle recovery and growth. The spices typically found in pumpkin spice, like cinnamon and nutmeg, have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in blood sugar regulation.
Everything You Need
Key Ingredients
The Smoothie King Pumpkin D-Lite ingredients are:
- pumpkin
- dates
- nonfat milk
- vanilla nonfat frozen yogurt
- pumpkin spice
- whey protein powder
- Collagen Boost, optional
Health Benefits
Pumpkins – Pumpkins are highly nutritious winter squash that are native to North America. They are absolutely packed with vitamin A, and provide significant amounts of vitamin B2, vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium. Pumpkins are known to boost your immune system, protect against age-related eyesight loss, and lower your risk of certain cancers.
[Amazon Fresh]
Dates – Dates are the sweet and chewy fruit of a palm tree that are typically consumed dried. They are highly nutritious, containing significant vitamin B6, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. Dates are abundant in disease-fighting antioxidants and have been shown to improve brain function by reducing inflammation and preventing plaque formation.
[Amazon Fresh]
Milk – Milk, mainly from cows, sheep, and goats, has been consumed through out the world for thousands of years. It is protein-rich and packed with important nutrients including, vitamin B2, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, phosphorous, potassium, and selenium. Milk is known to benefit bone health and may prevent osteoporosis.
[Amazon Fresh]
Nonfat Frozen Yogurt – Nonfat frozen yogurt is often hailed as a healthy alternative to traditional ice cream. It includes yogurt culture probiotics lactobacillus bulgaricus and streptococcus thermophilus and is often made with agave nectar instead of high-calorie sugar. Nonfat frozen yogurt is a common choice among those wanting to reduce their caloric intake.
Whey Protein Powder – Whey protein powder is the most highly studied nutritional supplement readily available, providing great nutritional value and numerous health benefits. In addition to high quality protein, it also contains bioactive peptides called lactokinins. Whey protein powder promotes muscle growth and maintenance, helps lower blood pressure, can lessen the effects of Type 2 diabetes, and reduces inflammation.
[Amazon Fresh]
Equipment Needed
A standard blender is all that is required to make these delicious smoothies. If you are making it for just one person, we recommend using the truly amazing personal NutriBullet Ultra as it is super-quick to set up and very easy to clean.
If you are making them for more than one person, we recommend a higher-end Vitamix blender that can process larger loads more efficiently.
For overnight storage, we recommend using a glass or BPA-free airtight container with a resealable lid.
How To Make The Smoothie King Pumpkin D-Lite
The Smoothie King Pumpkin D-Lite is very easy to make:
- Step 1: Place pumpkin puree, dates, nonfat milk, vanilla nonfat frozen yogurt, pumpkin spice, whey protein powder, and ice into a blender and secure the lid.
- Step 2: Start the blender on its lowest speed and steadily ramp up to its highest speed. This will reduce wear and tear on the motor and blades, facilitate a more consistent blend, and help prevent food splatter onto the lid and sides.
- Step 3: Blend for approximately 30 seconds or until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Step 4: Pour into a glass for immediate refreshment or place in the refrigerator in an airtight container to enjoy later.
Recipe Tips And Substitutions
If you don’t have frozen fruit, or simply prefer to use fresh fruit (we totally get that), we recommend adding 1/2 cup of ice to chill your smoothie and give it a pleasing icy texture.
Almond milk or soy milk can replace nonfat milk for those avoiding dairy.
Plant-based protein powder can take the place of whey for a vegan-friendly smoothie.
To boost the nutritional content, add a tablespoon of flaxseed for omega-3s or a handful of greens like spinach for extra vitamins and minerals.
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Smoothie King Pumpkin D-Lite Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 4 dates pitted
- 1 cup nonfat milk
- 1 cup nonfat frozen yogurt
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 whey protein powder, vanilla vanilla
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1 Collagen Boost optional
Instructions
- Place pumpkin puree, dates, nonfat milk, vanilla nonfat frozen yogurt, pumpkin spice, whey protein powder, and ice into a blender and secure the lid.
- Start the blender on its lowest speed and steadily ramp up to its highest speed. This will reduce wear and tear on the motor and blades, facilitate a more consistent blend, and help prevent food splatter onto the lid and sides.
- Blend for approximately 30 seconds or until a smooth consistency is achieved.
- Pour into a glass for immediate refreshment or place in the refrigerator in an airtight container to enjoy later.
Notes
- If you don't have frozen fruit, or simply prefer to use fresh fruit (we totally get that), we recommend adding 1/2 cup of ice to chill your smoothie and give it a pleasing icy texture.
- Almond milk or soy milk can replace nonfat milk for those avoiding dairy.
- Plant-based protein powder can take the place of whey for a vegan-friendly smoothie.
- To boost the nutritional content, add a tablespoon of flaxseed for omega-3s or a handful of greens like spinach for extra vitamins and minerals.
Nutrition
Smoothie Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you prefer not to use protein powder, you can still enjoy a protein boost by adding other protein-rich ingredients like Greek yogurt or silken tofu, which will also contribute to the smoothie’s creamy texture.
If you don’t have a pre-made pumpkin spice blend, you can easily create your own with individual spices. Mix together cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves to taste, and you’ll have a homemade pumpkin spice that brings the same warm flavors to your Pumpkin D-Lite smoothie.
More Smoothie King Recipes
→ If you liked this delicious Pumpkin D-Lite smoothie, try more of our copycat favorites on our Smoothie King Recipes page.
Sources
Smoothie King: Website
