Vanilla Pumpkin Protein Shake

This shake turned out so yummy it actually deserves its own post ;)  One of my readers requested that I create a pumpkin protein shake. I've tried a few recipes that I found online, but wasn't crazy about any of them. A lot of the shake recipes use bananas to sweeten, and I just wasn't crazy about the combo of pumpkin and banana. I used Torani Pumpkin Pie flavored syrup in this--if you really can't find it and/or don't want to buy it online, you could probably just use some sort of sweetener (1 Tbsp. of maple syrup would probably be good!) and extra pumpkin pie spice.

Also, I used the xanthan and guar gums in this shake, which are always optional (I like the thick, creamy texture they create). If you don't use them, I would cut back on the milk to about 1/2 cup, and freeze your pumpkin before using to get a thicker texture.

Anyway, this shake makes me super excited for my favorite time of year--fall!

Vanilla Pumpkin Protein Shake

3/4 cup milk (I used 1%, but use what you like)
1 serving vanilla protein powder
1/4 cup canned pumpkin
1 Tbsp. Torani Pumpkin Pie flavored syrup (I used regular, but they also sell sugar-free)
1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
10 ice cubes
(optional) 1/4 tsp. each xanthan and guar gum

Throw all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Makes 1 large serving (16-18 oz)