If you’re like a lot of athletes, you use some type of nut butter in your protein smoothies or other workout drinks to amp up the flavor and nutrition.

Peanut butter, almond butter and other nut butters are no doubt delicious. But for Thanksgiving I challenge you to add some fall flavors to your smoothies. And there’s no better way than pumpkin apple butter.

Not only is this a great booster for smoothies, it can be had on its own as a tasty snack or for a quick energy boost before your workout. Best of all, it’s bursting with tasty fall flavors and can be made in a slow cooker.

Here’s how to make it:

Pumpkin Apple Butter Recipe

• 6 apples
• 1/8 cup water
• 2 tbs. cinnamon (divided)
• 1/8 cup honey or agave
• 2 tbs. Earth Balance butter
• 15 oz. can of pumpkin
• 1 tsp. nutmeg
• 1 tbs. ginger
• 1/2 tsp. cloves

Step 1: Cut your apples into bite-size pieces, leave the skin on because that is where most of its nutrients are. Place apples in a crockpot with water and 1 tbsp of cinnamon. Cook on low for 8 hours. (If you want to speed up the process you can make the applesauce on the stove. Place ingredients in a pot, cover and cook on low for 30 minutes to 1 hour.) Cook your apples until soft. Cool and place the apples a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.

Step 2: Place applesauce in the crockpot along with the rest of the ingredients and stir. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. When cooled, put into jars and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. You can freeze for up to 6 months.

Nutrition Breakdown

If you’re following a certain macro count, this is perfect for getting the right amount of carbs whether the count is high or low.

Serving Size:

• 1 Tbs.
• Calories: 58
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 2g
• Protein: 0g

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READ MORE: 

• 3 Protein-Packed Peanut Butter Recipes
• Should You Drink a Protein Shake Before Bed?
• 7 Delicious Muscle-Building Smoothie Recipes