Pear protein shake with frozen pear, avocado, leafy greens, and cinnamon lightly sweetened with Medjool dates. Enjoy for breakfast or post-workout fuel.
I took a break from protein powder for almost three months, and it changed how I think about shakes. As a plant-based eater, I used to reach for protein powder every day, convinced it was essential. But relying on powder like a whole food left me convinced I needed it constantly — morning, noon, or as a snack. After the break, I realized whole-food sources provide plenty of protein, and I still enjoy using a scoop of powder sometimes for flavor and convenience.
That said, I’m excited to be back with a seasonal shake that’s perfect for fall: a Spiced Green Pear Protein Shake. It balances ripe pear sweetness with warming spices, creamy avocado, leafy greens, and optional vanilla protein powder for extra protein and flavor.
Spiced Green Pear Protein Shake
This green pear shake uses mostly whole foods: frozen pears provide body and chill, avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, spinach gives a bright green color plus iron, and Medjool dates add natural sweetness. A generous sprinkle of cinnamon and a pinch of powdered ginger give the shake that cozy fall flavor. If you use vanilla protein powder it turns into a more filling post-workout drink or on-the-go breakfast; if you prefer, seeds like flax, chia and hemp are an easy powder-free alternative.
Description
Pear protein shake with frozen pear, avocado, leafy greens, and cinnamon lightly sweetened with Medjool dates. Enjoy for breakfast or post-workout fuel.
Ingredients
- 2 medium pears, cored and sliced (frozen preferred for thicker shakes; I usually leave the skins on)
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk, plus more if needed to adjust consistency
- 2–3 Medjool dates, pitted (start with 1–2 and add more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of powdered ginger
- 2 large handfuls frozen spinach
- 1/2 small avocado or 1/4 of a medium avocado
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder, or substitute 2 tablespoons each of ground flaxseed, chia seeds, and hemp hearts for a powder-free option
- Optional topping: coconut-spiced granola or your favorite crunchy granola
Instructions
- Add all ingredients except the granola to a high-speed blender. Process until smooth and creamy. If the shake seems too thick, add more almond milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Divide the shake between two glasses. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a handful of granola for crunch, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
For a thicker, colder shake, freeze the pears (and spinach) ahead of time. If you forget to freeze them, use fresh pears and add up to 1/2 cup of ice to reach similar texture.
If you’re avoiding protein powder, blend in a mix of flaxseed, chia seed, and hemp hearts for texture, fiber, and plant protein.
This recipe is inspired by simple pear-and-vanilla smoothies and adapted to include warming spices and leafy greens for color and nutrients.
- Author: Flora & Vino
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 shakes
- Diet: Vegan
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Drink
- Method: Blender
- Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Oil-Free, Refined Sugar-Free
I enjoy topping this shake with a crunchy granola to add texture and a contrasting bite. Coconut-spiced granola complements the cinnamon and ginger nicely, but use whatever granola you prefer or skip it for a smoother drink. This shake works well as an easy grab-and-go breakfast, a satisfying post-workout drink, or a nutrient-dense snack.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Leave a comment or rating to share any tweaks you made—different pears, a favorite protein powder, or a granola swap. I read every note and use feedback to shape future recipes.
XO Lauren
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