Prep the ingredients. If your banana isn’t frozen yet, slice it and freeze it for at least 2 hours. This makes the smoothie thick and creamy without needing ice.
Add liquids to the blender first. Pour in the milk and vanilla. Starting with liquids helps the blades move easily and avoids clumps.
Add the pumpkin and banana. Scoop in the pumpkin puree and add the frozen banana slices.
Season and sweeten. Sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice and a pinch of salt.
Add maple syrup or honey to taste. Start with 1 teaspoon; you can always add more.
Blend until smooth. Blend on high for 30–45 seconds, or until everything is creamy and uniform. If the texture is too thick, add a splash more milk.
Taste and adjust. Want more spice?
Add another pinch. Need more sweetness? Drizzle a bit more maple syrup.
For extra thickness, add a few ice cubes and blend again.
Serve immediately. Pour into a tall glass. For a pie-like finish, add a small swirl of whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.