As fall weather creeps up I find myself craving all the fall spices and flavors that come along with my favorite season! Although the weather has been kind of weird in New York – humid and hot one day, cool and breezy the other – I am still breaking a sweat every time I head out the door for a run. So regardless of the weather, I am always in need of a cool drink to quench my thirst and replenish my energy. This time I attempted to combine all those delicious fall flavors in a refreshing post-run smoothie! And that is how this rich and creamy “pecan pie smoothie” was born. 
The problem I have found with smoothies is that I don’t feel satisfied enough after drinking them. I made sure to create this smoothie with enough substance that you wont have that mid morning dip in energy. Using oats in a smoothie is a great way to include complex carbohydrates while also giving the smoothie a rich and creamy taste! I used NOW Foods products to create this smoothie. They have an amazing assortment of organic and affordable products and they are my go-to company when it comes to stocking my pantry. They are super easy to find on Amazon so I normally place my order there! I even use their oils for cleaning my home-you can find the recipe for that here.
Give this rich and creamy pecan pie smoothie a try! Whether you are looking for a filling post-run refreshment or want to change up your morning breakfast routine, this may just become your new favorite! 
Recipe
1/4 cup old fashion oats
6 raw pecans
2 Medjool dates or 4 small dates
1 cup nut milk
1 teaspoon cacao powder
dash cinnamon
ice
optional add 1 scoop plant based protein
top with
cocoa nibs
dash cinnamon
crushed pecans
Directions
in a Blender combine all ingredients and blend until smooth
