1. Prepare Your Apple: Start by washing your apple. If you prefer, peel it, then core it and chop it into rough 1-inch pieces. This helps it blend more easily.

2. Gather Remaining Ingredients: Collect your frozen banana slices, vanilla protein powder, unsweetened almond milk, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and ice cubes. If using, have your maple syrup or honey ready.

3. Add Liquids First: Pour the unsweetened almond milk into your blender. Adding liquids first helps the blades move more freely and prevents ingredients from getting stuck at the bottom.

4. Layer Remaining Ingredients: Add the chopped apple, frozen banana, vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract to the blender. If you’re using optional sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, add them now.

5. Add Ice: Top everything with the ice cubes. This helps chill the smoothie and contributes to a thicker texture.

6. Blend Until Smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high speed until all ingredients are completely smooth and creamy. You might need to stop and scrape down the sides with a spatula once or twice to ensure everything is incorporated.

7. Check Consistency and Taste: If the smoothie is too thick, add a splash more almond milk and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a bit more frozen banana. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice levels if desired.

8. Serve Immediately: Pour your freshly blended Apple Pie Protein Smoothie into a glass and enjoy right away for the best flavor and texture.