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Dairy-Free

The BEST Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

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Carrot cake is my all-time FAVORITE kind of cake! And a few weeks ago I realized – I’ve made healthy carrot cake cookies, gluten-free carrot cake muffins, and even carrot cake baked oats but I’ve never made an actual carrot CAKE before. I know, I was shocked too. So I found the time and started recipe testing!

I knew my carrot cake had to be a few things – one bowl, gluten-free, and easy to make. I also really wanted to keep this gluten-free cake recipe to taste as close to the real thing as possible. I wasn’t willing to compromise on taste or texture, so after a few (failed) tests I finally did it! The BEST EVER gluten-free (and can be made dairy-free) carrot cake, made in one bowl, and oh-SO delicious.

gluten free and dairy free carrot cake ingredients on a table.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Carrot Cake

  • Moist and Flavorful: This cake boasts a tender crumb, infused with warm spices and the natural sweetness of carrots.​
  • Simple Ingredients: Crafted with everyday items, making it accessible and easy to prepare.​
  • Versatile and Inclusive: Easily adaptable to various dietary needs without compromising on taste.
gluten free carrot cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting cut into on a plate.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and dairy-free alternatives are at room temperature for a smoother batter.​
  • Grating Carrots: Use freshly grated carrots for optimal moisture and flavor.​
  • Frosting Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk in the frosting to achieve your desired thickness.​

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Make it Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy cream cheese, butter, and milk alternatives in both the cake and frosting.​

Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use all dairy-free substitutes.

Make it Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and ensure all other ingredients are free from cross-contamination.​

close up image of gluten-free carrot cake with cinnamon cream cheese frosting on a plate.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.​
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Thaw and frost before serving.
4.67 from 3 votes

The BEST Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Carrot Cake with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

This gluten-free cake is simply heavenly – and made in just one bowl! It's bursting with warm spices, shredded carrots, and topped with a luscious cinnamon cream cheese frosting. This cake is an incredible treat for any occasion!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 9 servings

Equipment

  • 2 large bowls
  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan
  • 1 hand or stand mixer

Ingredients

  • 1 cup brown sugar, or coconut sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil I used olive oil
  • 1/4 cup milk I used non-dairy almond milk
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 1/2 cups grated carrots
  • 1/2 cups walnuts chopped
  • 1/2 cup raisins optional

For the cinnamon cream cheese frosting:

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (I used non-dairy cream cheese)
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened (I used non-dairy butter)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 3-4 tablespoons milk I used non-dairy almond milk
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar or brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Add in the gluten-free all purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk everything together into a smooth batter. Then, add in the shredded carrots and chopped walnuts, and use a spatula to fold those ingredients into the batter.
    gluten-free-carrot-cake-step-02
  • Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the cake comes out clean.
  • Remove the cake from the oven, let it cool inside the baking pan for 15 minutes then carefully remove the cake from the pan by sliding a sharp knife around the outside edge of the cake. Transfer the cake to a wire cooling rack and let it cool completely before frosting.
  • Once the cake is cool, make the cinnamon cream cheese frosting by adding all frosting ingredients to a large bowl and beating with either a hand or stand mixer until fully combined. Start by using just 3 tablespoons of milk in the frosting, then add an additional tablespoon of milk if the frosting is too thick.
  • Spread the frosting into an even layer over the top of the cooled carrot cake. Either serve cake immediately or cover and store in the fridge for up to 1 week!

Notes

Nutrition info may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used. The above nutrition info was calculated to include the cinnamon cream cheese frosting.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 312kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 17g | Sugar: 26g
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Desserts

The BEST Fluffy Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

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Overhead image of gluten-free cinnamon rolls in a baking dish with cream cheese frosting on top.

These homemade gluten-free cinnamon rolls creates deliciously sweet and fluffy buns with pull-apart edges and a soft cinnamon sugar center. With a perfectly tender texture, these cinnamon rolls are sure to be a hit, great for Christmas brunch or any special occasion and can also be made dairy-free!

Maybe I just have a sweet tooth, but I don’t know if there’s anything better than homemade freshly baked cinnamon rolls fresh out of the oven! These gluten-free cinnamon rolls are tender, soft, sweet, fluffy and taste absolutely incredible. Perfect for your holiday mornings, brunch, or any occasion!

Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

  • Soft & Fluffy Texture: These gluten-free cinnamon rolls straight out of the oven will leave you wanting more!
  • Sweet & Warm Filling: Who doesn’t love a good cinnamon flavor? These cinnamon rolls combined with the spice of cinnamon & the sweetness of brown sugar creates the perfect filling!
  • Great For Sharing: This is the perfect gluten-free dessert to share with your families and friends!
gluten-free cinnamon rolls in a baking dish, one being removed from the dish.

What You’ll Need To Make Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

  • Gluten-Free Bread Flour: I recommend using King Arthur Gluten-Free Bread Flour (I buy it on Amazon). If you can’t find gluten-free bread flour, then you can use gluten-free all purpose baking flour in its place. However, bread flour yields fluffier and softer rolls!
  • Yeast: You’ll need to get your hands on some active dry yeast which will give a beautiful rise to these cinnamon rolls.
  • Eggs: Eggs will hold the batter together and ensure the perfect texture.
  • Milk & butter: I used non-dairy but if you don’t want dairy-free rolls, just use regular milk and butter!
  • Sugar & Powdered Sugar: I used regular white sugar, but see “Tips” section for alternatives.
  • Cinnamon: What’s a cinnamon roll without the cinnamon? This will be key for the filling!
  • Baking Powder: This will help along with the yeast to give a beautiful rise to the gluten-free cinnamon rolls!
  • Vanilla Extract: Along with the sugar, this will enhance the sweet flavor that will make these cinnamon rolls so good!

How To Make Homemade Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

  1. Make The Dough: Start by warming your milk to about 110° Fahrenheit in a medium bowl. With the electric mixer running on medium speed, slowly add the milk mixture into the flour mixture. Add the egg and egg yolk once the wet and dry ingredients are almost completely combined. Continue mixing to incorporate the eggs into the dough.
  2. Make The Filling: Combine your filling ingredients and add the filling to the dough first by spreading the softened butter over the dough in an even layer. Then, evenly sprinkle the brown sugar on top of the butter and the cinnamon on top of the brown sugar.
  3.  Bake The Cinnamon Rolls: Once the oven is hot, bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top.
gluten free cinnamon rolls dough in a bowl.
gluten free cinnamon roll dough rolled out on a table.

Tips & Adjustments When Making These Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

  • Sugar Substitutions: If you want to make these homemade gluten-free cinnamon rolls lower in sugar, you can sub the white sugar & powdered sugar with Lankanto.
  • Egg Replacements: Want to make these cinnamon rolls vegan? You can try using silken tofu, flax eggs or powdered egg replacers instead of regular eggs!
  • Room Temperature Butter: The secret to super tender homemade cinnamon rolls is room-temperature butter beaten into the dough. This technique works best if the butter is very soft.
  • Storage: These rolls will stay good at room-temperature for up to 2 days, in the fridge for up to a week, and in the freezer for up to 2 months.
gluten-free cinnamon roll on a plate with a fork.

FAQ’S

  • Can I Make These Vegan?: Yes! Feel free to replace the eggs with silken tofu, flax eggs, or your favorite egg replacer instead!
  • Do I Need To Start Over If My Yeast & Milk Mixture Do Not Become Frothy?: Yes, the mixture frothing ensures that the cinnamon rolls will rise properly before baking and once completed ensures that your cinnamon rolls have that soft and fluffy texture.
  • Can I Add Extra Mix-Ins?: Yes! Feel free to add any of your favorite nuts or spices to the filling!
Overhead image of gluten-free cinnamon rolls in a baking dish with cream cheese frosting on top.
5 from 2 votes

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Rolls

This gluten-free cinnamon rolls recipe creates deliciously sweet and fluffy buns with pull-apart edges and a soft cinnamon sugar center. With a perfectly tender texture, these cinnamon rolls can also be made dairy-free!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 9 servings

Ingredients

For the dough:

  • 1 cup warm milk 110 degrees Fahrenheit
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter melted
  • 1 egg plus 1 egg yolk at room temperature
  • 3 cups gluten-free bread flour plus more for rolling
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

  • 1/4 cup butter softened
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cinnamon

For the cream cheese frosting:

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • 2 tablespoons butter softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste

Instructions

  • Start by warming your milk in a medium bowl to about 110° Fahrenheit. Do this in either the microwave for about 30-40 seconds, or over low heat on the stove for 2 minutes.
  • Once milk is warm, add the active dry yeast, sugar, and melted butter. Give it a gently whisk to combine, then let that sit for a couple minutes while you continue on with the recipe.
    gluten-free-cinnamon-rolls-step-1
  • To the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, add the gluten-free bread flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Turn the mixer on low until the dry ingredients are combined.
  • With the electric mixer running on medium speed, slowly add the milk mixture into the flour mixture. Once the wet and dry ingredients are almost completely combined, add in the egg and egg yolk. Continue mixing to incorporate the eggs into the dough.
    gluten-free-cinnamon-rolls-step-3
  • Once the eggs are incorporated, turn the mixer on high speed and mix the dough for 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and comes together in a ball.
    gluten-free-cinnamon-rolls-step-4
  • Generously flour a work surface with the gluten-free bread flour, then press the dough on top of the flour and press/roll into a 9×13-inch rectangle.
  • Add the filling by spreading the softened butter over the dough in an even layer. Then, evenly sprinkle the brown sugar on top of the butter and the cinnamon on top of the brown sugar. Carefully take the long end and roll the dough up into a tight log. Slice the log into 7-8 cinnamon rolls, each about 2 inches thick.
  • Then, place the cinnamon rolls in a greased 9×9-inch baking dish and tightly cover the dish with plastic wrap. Place the rolls in a warm place (by a window, in a proving drawer, in the oven with the light on, etc) to rise for about 1 hour.
    gluten-free-cinnamon-rolls-step-7
  • After the hour is up, remove the plastic wrap from the baking dish and preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. Once the oven is hot, bake the cinnamon rolls for 25-30 minutes or until they’re golden brown on top. Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool while you make the icing.
  • To make the cream cheese frosting, add the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl of an electric mixer and beat until it’s smooth and fluffy. Spread the frosting on top of your cinnamon rolls and ENJOY!
    gluten-free-cinnamon-rolls-step-9

Notes

Storage: These rolls will stay good at room-temperature for up to 2 days, in the fridge for up to a week, and in the freezer for up to 2 months.
*Nutrition facts reflect that of one plain cinnamon roll, without cream cheese frosting.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 280kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 3.6g | Fat: 14g | Sugar: 23g

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Dairy-Free

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This gluten-free apple cake is a delicious, simple treat that’s also healthier than traditional cakes. It’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making it refined sugar-free, and packed with apples, providing a warm and comforting flavor. This one-bowl recipe is quick to mix up and even easier to enjoy!

gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake sliced into squares on a baking sheet.

What You’ll Need to Make This Gluten-Free Apple Cake

  • Milk (I used almond milk): Adds moisture to the cake, keeping it soft. Almond milk makes it dairy-free, but any milk will work.
  • Maple Syrup or Honey: A natural sweetener that brings sweetness without refined sugar. Maple syrup keeps it vegan-friendly.
  • Unsweetened Applesauce: Adds a touch of natural sweetness and moisture while reducing the need for additional fats.
  • Melted Coconut Oil: This healthy fat keeps the cake moist and tender. It also adds a subtle coconut flavor, enhancing the cake’s richness.
  • Large Eggs: Bind the cake ingredients together, providing structure and moisture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness that pairs well with the apples and cinnamon.
  • Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base of the cake while keeping it gluten-free. Any 1:1 gluten-free blend should work. I use and love Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1:1 Baking Flour in my gluten-free recipes!
  • Almond Flour: Adds moisture and a slightly nutty flavor, while also making the cake nice and tender!
  • Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
  • Cinnamon: Brings warmth and coziness to the cake, pairing perfectly with the apple slices.
  • Apple, Thinly Sliced: Provides sweet, tart bites throughout the cake, enhancing flavor and texture.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

  • Sugar: Adds sweetness and creates a caramelized crust on top of the cake.
  • Cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice that pairs well with apples.
  • Melted Butter or Coconut Oil: Helps the topping adhere to the cake and caramelize in the oven, creating a golden, crunchy layer.
gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake slice on a small dish with a fork.

How to Make Gluten-Free Apple Cake

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F, and line and grease a 9×9-inch cake pan for easy release.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, applesauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and cinnamon to the bowl, mixing gently until just combined.
  4. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the thinly sliced apples to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
  5. Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter or coconut oil, then sprinkle the mixture evenly over the cake batter.
  6. Bake: Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
  7. Optional Topping: Just before serving, sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple powdered sugar icing for a little extra sweetness.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge before serving.

What Type of Apples Are Best for Apple Cake?

Opt for tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These hold their shape well during baking and balance the sweetness of the cake!

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut oil as written for a dairy-free version.
  • Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and choose maple syrup as the sweetener.
  • Low Sugar: Reduce or omit the maple syrup for a naturally less-sweet cake, and use less sugar in the topping if desired.
gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake slice on a small dish with a fork.
5 from 1 vote

Gluten-Free Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cake

This gluten-free cinnamon sugar apple cake is perfect for fall and cozy gatherings! Made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, applesauce, and maple syrup, it’s moist, flavorful, and has a sweet, spiced topping for an extra treat. It’s healthy, gluten-free, and can easily be made dairy-free with just ONE bowl!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup milk (I used almond milk) at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened apple sauce
  • 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or melted butter
  • 2 large eggs at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups gluten-free all purpose flour see Notes
  • 1 cup almond flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 apple cored and very thinly sliced

For the cinnamon sugar topping:

  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter or melted coconut oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit then line and lightly grease a 9×9-inch cake pan (round or square).
  • Add the milk, maple syrup, apple sauce, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract to a large bowl then whisk to combine.
  • Then, add in the gluten-free all purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon and gently mix until just combined.
  • Fold the thinly sliced apples into the cake batter until evenly distributed throughout the batter, then transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan.
  • In a small bowl, mix together all ingredients for the cinnamon sugar topping, then sprinkle the topping evenly over top of the cake.
  • Bake the cake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted down the center of the cake comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven, then remove the cake from the pan and transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before serving. Just before serving, sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with powdered sugar icing!

Notes

Gluten-Free All Purpose Flour: I use and love Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Gluten-Free All Purpose Baking Flour.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 148kcal | Carbohydrates: 18.5g | Protein: 2.8g | Fat: 7.9g | Sugar: 8.8g
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30 Minutes or Less

Healthier Caramelized Apples

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Sweet, tart, and warm – my caramelized apples recipe is an easy-to-make healthy Fall dessert, perfect to eat with a scoop of ice cream. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and even vegan too!

How to Make Caramelized Apples

Yay, more apple-based recipes! I have so many I need to use after all that apple picking I did in September, so hopefully this simple recipe can come in handy for you this Fall, too.

For this recipe, the apples are sautéed in butter, sugar, and cinnamon until tender and caramelized. They can then be added to sweet or savory dishes from pancakes to roasted pork loin, or be eaten directly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

What Does Caramelization Mean?

One thing to keep in mind that often gets confused is that caramelized apples are not caramel apples! Caramelization is actually the browning of sugar used in cooking for the resulting sweet nutty flavor and brown color. 

healthier caramelized apples in a skillet with a spoon.

What You’ll Need to Make Caramelized Apples

  • Apples – Use 2-3 gala, granny smith, or any other firm cooking apple.
  • Butter – I used non-dairy.
  • Sugar – I used coconut sugar, but white sugar or brown sugar would also taste great!
  • Cinnamon

Tips and Tricks

What Are The Best Apples to Use For Caramelization?

The best apples to use for this recipe are a firm apples such as Granny Smith, Fuji, Gala or Honeycrisp. Most people prefer Granny Smith because they are tart, which pairs perfectly with the sweet buttery caramelized sauce. It’s not a good idea to use a softer apple because they will fall apart while cooking.

What to make with caramelized apples?

Caramelized apples can be used on top of ice cream, on your pancakes, or as a pie filling. You can also use caramelized apples in savory dishes like chicken or turkey if you enjoy a sweeter taste to your meals. But honestly, you can use caramelized apples on almost anything you want!

How to Store Caramelized Apples?

Once cooled, place it in a jar with a tight fitting lid and refrigerate. It should keep for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

5 from 4 votes

Healthier Caramelized Apples

Sweetly tart and thoroughly warming, my vegan and refined sugar free caramelized apples recipe is an easy-to-make healthy Fall dessert, perfect to eat with a scoop of icecream.
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • large saucepan

Ingredients

  • 2-3 whole apples
  • 1 tablespoon butter I used non-dairy butter
  • 2 tablespoons sugar I used coconut sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  • Slice apples into even-sized pieces.
  • Melt butter in a large saucepan before adding in the sugar, apples, and cinnamon.
  • Cook for 4-5 minutes, tossing apples every minute or so until tender.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 84kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 0.3g | Fat: 2.9g | Sugar: 11g

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30 Minutes or Less

Healthy Apple Pie Protein Smoothie

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Apple pie protein smoothie in a glass with whipped cream and cinnamon on top.

We brought our toddler apple picking last weekend and I currently swimming in apples over here! Just SO many apples. We of course made my healthy gluten-free apple crisp as soon as we got home. I’ve also been making caramelized apples to go over yogurt and oatmeal bowls (so good OMG!). But we still have more apples than we know what to do with! *Enter the apple pie smoothie.*

It’s true what they say… an apple a day keeps the doctor away! This smoothie starts with one whole apple, plain yogurt, and a scoop of protein powder for extra protein. The end results is a creamy and perfectly sweet high protein smoothie that tastes just like apple pie. It’s nutritious, deeply satisfying, and guaranteed to keep you full until your next meal!

apple pie smoothie in a glass with whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This healthy apple pie protein smoothie is the perfect blend of flavors for a cozy, yet refreshing treat. It’s packed with protein, naturally sweetened, and full of fall flavors that make you feel like you’re enjoying a slice of apple pie. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and takes just a few minutes to whip up!

What You Need to Make This Healthy Apple Pie Smoothie

Apple: A fresh apple adds natural sweetness, fiber, and a classic apple pie flavor.

Plain Yogurt (Non-Dairy): This adds creaminess and a boost of protein while keeping the smoothie dairy-free. I recommend Cocojune organic plain unsweetened coconut yogurt, it’s perfectly thick and creamy! Though you can use regular yogurt if preferred.

Milk (Almond Milk): This helps to blend the smoothie and adds a touch of nuttiness from the almond milk. Any milk can work depending on your dietary needs.

Unflavored Protein Powder or Collagen Peptides: Boosts protein content to keep you full longer. Unflavored protein powder blends seamlessly with the apple pie flavors. I use and love the Garden of Live vegan protein powder in most of my protein smoothies!

Rolled Oats or Almond Butter: Adds creaminess and thickness to the smoothie. You can swap with almond butter for extra creaminess or keep it grain-free.

Cinnamon: The spice that gives this smoothie its signature apple pie flavor.

Honey or Maple Syrup (Optional): For a little extra sweetness if needed, especially if your apple isn’t very sweet.

apple pie smoothie with a straw.

Can I Prep This Apple Pie Smoothie Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep the ingredients the night before by chopping the apple and measuring out the other ingredients. Store them in the fridge, then blend them together in the morning. If you want to make the smoothie ahead of time, blend it and store it in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake before drinking!

Tips and Tricks For the Best Smoothie

  • For a thicker, creamier smoothie either use a frozen apple instead of a fresh one, or add half of a frozen banana to the blender along with all of the other ingredients.
  • Blend your smoothie for longer to ensure a smooth texture without any lumps.
  • Add ice cubes if you like your smoothie extra cold, or freeze the almond milk into cubes for added creaminess!

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

  • Make it Vegan: Use non-dairy yogurt and plant-based protein powder to make this smoothie 100% vegan.
  • Grain-Free: Skip the oats and use almond butter for added creaminess and healthy fats.
  • Make it Nut-Free: Substitute almond milk with oat milk, and use oats instead of almond butter. It’s that easy!
Apple pie protein smoothie in a glass with whipped cream and cinnamon on top.
5 from 1 vote

Apple Pie Protein Smoothie

This healthy apple pie protein smoothie is just what you need for a delicious, protein-packed, fall-inspired treat. It’s made with 7 simple ingredients, is gluten-free, dairy-free, high in protein, and can easily be adapted to fit any dietary needs!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving

Equipment

  • blender

Ingredients

  • 1 medium apple cored and cut
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt (I used non-dairy coconut yogurt)
  • 1/4 cup milk (I used almond milk)
  • 1 scoop unflavored protein powder or collagen peptides
  • 1 tablespoon rolled oats or 1/2 tablespoon almond butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth, then enjoy immediately!

Nutrition

Serving: 1smoothie | Calories: 313kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 22.5g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 28g
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