This Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie is in one word delicious. Creamy, nutty, and perfectly sweet, full of wonderful flavors with a hint of apple freshness. It's very filling, packed with essential nutrients, made without added sugars. Healthy, easy to make, and super yummy!
Many consider smoothies to be just some fruity drinks that are only sweet and easy to sip. But smoothies are way more than that. Smoothies made with the right, carefully chosen wholesome ingredients represent a balanced meal that can easily replace a full breakfast. That is if you know how to make them the right way.
I'm quite a fan of smoothies. And if you look at my blog, you'll find a dozen of recipes. Strawberry Oatmeal Smoothie, Mixed Berry Smoothie, Yogurt Lemon Smoothie are just a few from my recipe book. I can say I'm an evangelist, promoting smoothies as healthy meals. For me, they are the best option for busy mornings. They are easy to whip up and easily modified to include all or particular essential nutrients. The bonus is that they don't contain added sugars. At least I don't like to add ones.
This Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie is one of my oldie but goldie. One of the very first smoothies I ever made. I enhanced it a bit over the years, but the basic recipe stayed the same. Still, I like to play around with ingredients sometimes when I'm looking to add something special to my morning meal.
Either way, it's delicious. Extra thick and creamy, so nutty, but you can feel apple freshness inside. It's super sweet, BUT it doesn't have any added sugars inside. It's simple and, most important, nutritious and SO HEALTHY.
Ingredients used
To make this healthy apple smoothie, I used only simple pantry ingredients that most of us probably have at home already. You will need:
- SWEET APPLE: Apple is definitely the star in this smoothie. Fresh, sweet, and loaded with nutrients, apples are now in season and beautiful. I used crunchy and super sweet Gala apple.
- MILK: I used oat milk, but you can use whatever milk you prefer or have. Note that coconut milk won't work well here.
- PEANUT BUTTER: I used creamy peanut butter that is all-natural (meaning without added sugars or oils). Peanut butter is a versatile protein-packed spread that is not only super tasty but super healthy too. It’s packed with proteins and healthy fats, as well as fibers. (1) A great addition to smoothies.
- BANANA: Banana is an amazing fruit. It's sweet and packed with many nutrients, especially fibers. I used a ripe banana. It gave sweetness so there’s no need to add extra sugars.
- OATS: Hearty, healthy, and filling, oats are fantastic in smoothies. They are an excellent choice for breakfast since they are a great fiber source, especially beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that keeps our heart healthy. They are also great in supporting good gut bacteria growth, which is essential for our immunity. I used rolled oats here.
To give apple smoothie extra flavor and nutrient boost, I tossed in some SUPERFOODS as well:
- CINNAMON: I'm using Ceylon cinnamon, also known as "true" cinnamon. It's a highly delicious spice with many health benefits. Cinnamon gave the smoothie a wonderful flavor.
- FLEX SEEDS: They are an excellent source of healthy Omega-3s, but also a great source of proteins - a great addition to a smoothie.
- VANILLA EXTRACT
Look at the SUBSTITUTIONS section below if you find that you're missing some of the ingredients.
How to make Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie
Making this gorgeous apple smoothie is quite easy. It will take you 5 minutes (tops!). Here's how to make it:
- Prepare and measure all ingredients using measuring cups.
- Take the blender and add all ingredients. Add ice cubes, if using.
- Mix everything on high speed until you get an even silky texture.
- If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more liquid – milk or water. Blend again until everything is well combined.
- Taste the smoothie and add additional sweetener if the smoothie is not sweet enough. I recommend using date syrup, raw honey or maple syrup, or stevia. This is totally based on your preference.
- Transfer the smoothie into a glass.
- ADD TOPPINGS: I used chopped peanuts, a dash of cinnamon, and more peanut butter. Be creative here and add toppings you like.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Makes 1 glass that serves 1-2 people.
Substitutions
- You can use rolled or quick oats here.
- You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter. Tahini works well too.
- Substitute oat milk with any plant-based milk except coconut milk. Coconut milk won't work well here. Cow's milk is fine.
- Substitute banana with 1-2 dates, date syrup, maple syrup, or honey, and add more oats to achieve creaminess (optional).
- Substitute ground flax seeds with hemp seeds or chia seeds (it will add more fibers and omega-3's).
- MAKE IT GLUTEN-FREE: Use certified gluten-free oats.
Tips for storing
- Store in a glass jar with a lid and keep refrigerated up to one day.
- Oats tend to make the smoothie thick in the morning (they soak up the moisture), so you may need to add a bit of liquid the next day - milk or water. Just shake it or stir it with the spoon.
- Remember, all smoothies oxidate when left standing. That's not bad, BUT to reap all benefits from ingredients, it's best to have this smoothie FRESH!
Pro tips
- To make the smoothie more refreshing, you can add ice cubes, OR you can feeze diced apples (preferably overnight).
- Use PEANUT BUTTER without added sugars or oils. Read the labels!
- Use a high power blender to ensure everything blends well and the smoothie is silky smooth.
- Turn into protein shake: add protein powder (I recommend a natural or vanilla flavor).
- The best apple for smoothies: I like to use sweet apples, like Gala or Fuji but you're welcome to use sour apples, like Granny Smith. In that case, you may need to add more sweetener.
- If you are using dates, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes. Drain them before using them.
- Make sure you're using RIPE BANANA, to achieve targeted sweetness.
Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie benefits
Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie is an amazing breakfast option and has many benefits.
- It's packed with nourishing ingredients that promote optimal health.
- It's a well-balanced meal that has all the essential nutrients your body needs.
- It's packed with fibers good for weight loss and gut health.
- It has NO ADDED SUGARS.
- It's full of wonderful warm spices and flavors.
- It's rich in powerful antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins.
- It's very satisfying.
- It's vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and extremely delicious!
- Kid-friendly and easy to make.
Hope this creamy deliciousness will make your mornings better. Enjoy!
Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 sweet apple I used Gala
- 1 ripe banana
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 2 tablespoon rolled oats
- 1 cup oat milk
- 1 tablespoon ground flax seeds
- 1 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Take the blender and add all ingredients. Add ice cubes, if using.
- Mix everything on high speed until you get an even silky texture.
- If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more liquid – milk or water. Blend again until everything is well combined.
- Taste the smoothie and add additional sweetener if the smoothie is not sweet enough. I recommend using date syrup, raw honey or maple syrup, or stevia. This is totally based on your preference.
- Transfer the smoothie into a glass.
- ADD TOPPINGS: I used chopped peanuts, a dash of cinnamon, and more peanut butter. Be creative here and add toppings you like.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
You can use rolled or quick oats here.
You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter, cashew butter. Tahini works well too.
Substitute oat milk with any plant-based milk except coconut milk. Coconut milk won't work well here. Cow's milk is fine.
Substitute banana with 1-2 dates, date syrup, maple syrup, or honey, and add more oats to achieve creaminess (optional).
Substitute ground flax seeds with hemp seeds or chia seeds (it will add more fibers and omega-3's).
MAKE IT GLUTEN-FREE: Use certified gluten-free oats. Store in a glass jar with a lid and keep refrigerated up to one day. Pro tips
Turn into protein shake: add protein powder (I recommend a natural or vanilla flavor).
The best apple for smoothies: I like to use sweet apples, like Gala or Fuji but you're welcome to use sour apples, like Granny Smith. In that case, you may need to add more sweetener.
If you are using dates, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes. Drain them before using them.
Make sure you're using RIPE BANANA, to achieve targeted sweetness. Given nutritional values don't include toppings. Nutritional Disclaimer
Nutrition
More smoothie recipes to try
- Blueberry Oatmeal Smoothie
- Goji Berry Smoothie
- Matcha Smoothie
- Healthy Apple Pie Smoothie
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Smoothie
- 20 Immune Boosting Smoothies
If you’ve tried this Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie recipe or any other recipe on Natalie’s Health, please take a minute to rate the recipe and leave a comment letting me know how you liked it. I love hearing from you!
This post is originally published in March 2016, and it's updated with new information and images in October 2020.
I don't typically have a lot of smoothies after summer, but THIS I will be making! Perfect flavors to enjoy, especially in the fall! LOVE!
Peanut butter, banana, and cinnamon are a perfect combo for a real treat. This smoothie testifies exactly that.
Omgoodness this is so delicious! Even my husband loved it and he’s not one for smoothies. Will absolutely make again!
Glad you liked it, Kim. :) Thank you for the lovely comment.
Now this is an awesome fall recipe. i would love to snack on this!
This sounds like a crazy combination! But I am sure if you love apples and peanut butter, than you will love this!
The combination of apples and peanut butter worked so well. I made this for my breakfast yesterday. Loved it.
This is just the recipe for this moment, So practical and so much flavour. Thank you My entire family loves apples and peanut butter. Putting them together in a smoothie is freaking genius!
A new family fall favorite! We all (kids especially) loved these flavors! They’re asking for it all of the time now!
Thanks for a nutritious recipe. I am gonna please my brother with this preparation.
I start most days with a smoothie but have never made one with peanut butter before. Absolutely delicious! Now on my favourite's list!
Love this! Hadnt thought of using oats to make the shake or smoothie thicker, such a good idea.
This Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie is my new favorite smoothie. All of these flavors blended together is like a fall explosion. Everything about this is perfect!
This looks like a delicious treat! I know that my family will love it.
This looks so yummy and so perfect to go with a book! I love peanut butter flavored anything so I know I would love this!
This looks so yummy and so perfect to go with a book! I love peanut butter flavored anything so I know I would love this!
Kileen
cute & little
Yummy, that looks so delicious, I love apples, so this is going to be a good way to start my breakfast
oh my goodness..I was looking for a recipe for a Peanut Butter Smoothie and here it is! Thank you so much! I´m so gonna try it tomorrow!
Oh, yummy! This looks like such an amazing recipe to try out! I’ll have to give it a whirl this weekend.
Everything so healthy and combinations delicious. Perfect smoothie for an amazing start of the day.
Peanut is my favorite flavor! I need to try it with apples. Sounds so delicious!
This is packed with protein. What a great way to use apples!
so yummy,i will love this and definitely will make soon...Thanks for the recipe!
Although on occasion I will eat apple slices dipped in peanut butter, I never would have thought about a smoothie. I know one of my sons would absolutely adore this.
Love the combination of ingredients in this smoothie.so creamy and nutty. I will make this soon.
Your Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie looks really delicious and refreshing. I need to try this, thank you!
I love apples and peanut butter so much. This smoothie will definitely be my favorite.
Sounds really tasty, and really filling too. I love how versatile smoothies are. Thanks for sharing such a tasty recipe!
Apples made to drink is so refreshing. This one is a must try.
Wow....what a combo that is! Nothing fancy about them ingredients but all there is to love about the final product. I will soon make myself one.
Oh my, I can imagine how this one would taste already,yum😋
Looks so good, I love all the substitution suggestions - this smoothie will never get old.
Delicious for healthy breakfast.
I like your amazing ingredients sans peanut butter. It's just not the flavor I like in anything.
Apples and peanut butter go so well together. This smoothie must taste amazing!
I love adding peanut butter to my smoothies. It's added protein and it's so delicious.
This looks very yummy. My man would love it.
I've never heard of ceylon cinnamon until I read it here in your post. This sounds SO delicious and now I'm on the hunt for that cinnamon!!
I wonder if I'll like this flavor. I do like apple and banana drinks, perhaps this apple peanut butter banana smoothie is something I can start my day with as I work to adjusting my eating and drinking habits to be somewhat healthier.
We just went apple picking so this comes at the perfect time. Saving for later use!
I can't wait to try this apple peanut butter banana smoothie. Those are some of my favorite flavors!
This is the perfect fall smoothie! Love the combination of apples and peanut butter.
Been making a lot of smoothies lately, but never thought to add some fresh apple. Can't wait to try!
I am a huge fan of peanut butter and apples and so is our 4-year-old. This would be a great breakfast for both of us.
Now this sounds like an incredible smoothie, this is the time of year I just love anything apple and I am going to have to try this for myself.
I love smoothies but haven't even thought about using apples or cinnamon in mine. Oats is another thing I have never tried and must. Thanks so much for the suggestions.
Ooh does this look delicious!
I really loved making smoothies but I have never tried to make an apple peanut butter smoothie in my whole life and I think this is the time for me to try a new flavor for my smoothie. Thank you!
I love all the healthy ingredients in this smoothie. It's a perfect way to get in a quick breakfast or even an afternoon snack!
The flavors here sound so good! Apple, peanut butter, and banana all go so well together, and I love how healthy it is.
This is fully awesome. I'm going to throw in a scoop of protein powder and make this my pre-workout smoothie.
This looks so delicious and healthy!
I am sure I will love this smoothie. It sounds like such a fantastic flavor. Perfect for the fall!
The ingredients are awesome... I added two cups of fresh Baby spinach and it taste amazing!!! Thank you
Glad you like it :) Nice addition of greens. Thank you for lovely feedback! Cheers!
This smoothie is delicious. I made it when I was running low on time great flavors. You get the balance of the banana, apple, and peanut butter. Nothing is over powering the other. I would do this recipe again.
I'm trying this today. Thanks!
This recipe is really delicious. I was a little hesitant about putting apple into a smoothie but when my little sister had strep and insisted on an apple banana smoothie, I decided to give it a try. Let's just say, it's a hit and we will definitely make this again.
Hi Natalie,
Your apple banana smoothie recipe is fantastic. And I have featured it in our website Green Thickies.
Of course all credits are given to you and linked back to this page. I have not posted the actual recipe, but only a small snippet from this page and one photo from here.
Hope that is okay with you. Thanks a lot :)
Katherine,
Green Thickies
Oh wow! Thank you so much for letting me know. If you send me the link, I'll re-share it with my followers. Just pop me an email. :)
Can you use powdered peanut butter, like PB2?
Sure thing :) Enjoy!
Delicious, hits the spot! Can’t wait to try more recipes!
I really love it...
Thanks a lot :) Glad you like it!
Can I have it for dessert? Hehe, smoothie doesn't know which time of the day is, right? ;) Looks so delicious, Natalie, thank you for this great glass of health and beauty!
Thanks Marija! I love smoothies and sometimes they act as dessert, for when I have nothing sweet to snack :D hahaha
Natalie this Apple Peanut Butter Smoothie has my name written all over it. Don't know why I haven't made this combination yet. We've actually been experiencing some really, really warm weather here for February so it has me thinking Smoothies :)
Apples and PB is like best combo.. right after choco and banana :) Warm weather makes me thinking about smoothies too heheh ;) Thanks friend!