9 Easy & Tasty Cordyceps Mushroom Recipes (w/ Nutrition Tables) - Lucid™

9 Easy & Tasty Cordyceps Mushroom Recipes (w/ Nutrition Tables)

Written by: Kat Austin

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Time to read 7 min

Cordyceps mushrooms are known for their natural health benefits, including boosting energy, improving brain function, and enhancing athletic performance. The most common form of cordyceps used in recipes is cordyceps extract powder or dried ground cordyceps, as it’s easy to incorporate into a variety of dishes.


Below, we’ve rounded up 9 easy and tasty cordyceps recipes that will add a nutritional boost to your meals.


Key Takeaways


  • Cordyceps extract powder is the most common form used in recipes due to its versatility and ease of use.

  • From smoothies to ice cream and granola bars, cordyceps can be added to many dishes for a natural energy boost.

  • Incorporating Cordyceps daily is the best way to reap its energy-boosting, nootropic benefits.


Understanding Cordyceps and Its Benefits

Cordyceps are a type of medicinal mushroom known for their remarkable health benefits. Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, these fungi are prized for their ability to boost energy, enhance athletic performance, and support overall wellness.


Cordyceps contain bioactive compounds like cordycepin, which are believed to help increase oxygen uptake, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation.


The benefits of cordyceps go beyond physical performance. They are also thought to improve brain function, support immune health, and even help balance blood sugar levels. 


Whether you’re looking for a natural energy boost or seeking to enhance mental clarity, cordyceps are a versatile and powerful addition to your daily routine.

What Type of Cordyceps Should You Use in Recipes?

When using cordyceps in recipes, Cordyceps militaris is the most commonly recommended variety. This type of cordyceps is widely available in its powdered or extract form and is known for its rich concentration of bioactive compounds.


For most recipes, cordyceps extract powder is the ideal choice due to its ease of use and versatility in smoothies, drinks, and baked goods.

Can You Eat Cordyceps Raw?

While it’s technically possible to eat cordyceps raw, it’s not generally recommended. Whole cordyceps mushrooms have a tough, fibrous texture that makes them less enjoyable to consume raw. Additionally, they can be difficult to digest in their whole form.


For our cordyceps, recipes below, you’ll want to use either a high-quality cordyceps extract powder or freshly ground dried cordyceps. Keep in mind that extract powder has more therapeutic potential thanks to the bioavailability of its polysaccharides and other bioactive compounds. 


Cordyceps Mushroom Recipes With Cordyceps Extract

1. Cordyceps Mushroom Smoothie


A refreshing way to start your day and boost your energy.


Ingredients:


  • 1 banana

  • 1/2 cup spinach

  • 1 tbsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1 cup almond milk

  • 1 tbsp honey


Instructions:


1. Blend all ingredients together until smooth.

2. Serve chilled and enjoy!


Total Servings: 1


Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx)


Calories

223

Carbs

50g

Protein

3.5g

Fat

2.5g

Fiber

5.5g

Sugars

31.1g



Cordyceps Smoothie Recipe Photo

2. Cordyceps-Infused Ice Cream


A cool treat that packs a nutritional punch.


Ingredients :


  • 2 cups heavy cream

  • 1 cup milk

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1 tbsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • (Optional: Add nuts, chocolate, or other toppings to customize to your tastes.)



Instructions:


1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until the cordyceps powder is dissolved.

2. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Serve after it’s frozen to your desired consistency.


Total Servings : 6

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx)


Calories

231

Carbs

20g

Protein

2.2g

Fat

16g

Fiber

0.2g

Sugars

19.8g




Cordyceps Ice Cream Recipe Photo

3. Cordyceps Coffee


Add cordyceps to your morning coffee for an extra energy boost.


Ingredients :


  • 1 cup brewed coffee

  • 1 tsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1 tbsp cream or milk (optional)

  • 1 tsp honey (optional)



Instructions :


1. Stir the cordyceps powder into your hot coffee.


2. Add cream and honey if desired, and enjoy!



Total Servings: 1


Nutrition Facts (with cream and honey) (Per Serving, Approx):


Calories

85

Carbs

8g

Protein

1g

Fat

5g

Fiber

0.5g

Sugars

5.5g


Cordyceps Coffee Recipe Photo

For a simpler cordyceps beverage mix, try our Lucid Mushroom + Nootropic Coffee, Matcha, or Chai. Each Lucid formula combines Cordyceps with other adaptogenic and nootropic compounds to offer you a brain and body boost you can't get from coffee alone. 


Check out one of our three Lucid formulas:

4. Cordyceps Mushroom Smoothie Bowl


A more filling smoothie option for breakfast.


Ingredients :


  • 1 frozen banana

  • 1/2 cup frozen berries

  • 1 tbsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1/2 cup almond milk

  • Toppings: granola, chia seeds, fresh fruit


Instructions :


1. Blend the banana, berries, cordyceps powder, and almond milk until smooth.

2. Pour into a bowl and add your favorite toppings.


Total Servings: 1

Nutrition Facts (without toppings) (Per Serving, Approx):


Calories

175

Carbs

40.5g

Protein

3.5g

Fat

1.25g

Fiber

7g

Sugars

20g




Cordyceps Smoothie Bowl Recipe Photo

5. Cordyceps Latte


A cozy, creamy drink that’s perfect for chilly mornings.


Ingredients :


  • 1 cup steamed milk (dairy or plant-based)

  • 1 tbsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1 shot espresso or strong coffee

  • 1 tsp honey or sweetener of choice



Instructions :


1. Mix the cordyceps powder into the milk and steam until frothy.

2. Pour over a shot of espresso or strong coffee.

3. Stir in honey or sweetener if desired.



Total Servings: 1

Nutrition Facts (with whole milk) (Per Serving, Approx):


Calories

193

Carbs

21.5g

Protein

9g

Fat

8g

Fiber

1g

Sugars

17.5g



Cordyceps Latte Recipe Photo

6. Cordyceps Energy Balls


A portable, on-the-go snack.


Ingredients:


  • 1 cup oats

  • 1/4 cup almond butter

  • 1 tbsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)



Instructions:


1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.

2. Roll into 15 small balls and refrigerate for an hour.

3. Enjoy as a quick snack.


Total Servings: 5 (3 Energy Balls per Serving)


Cordyceps Energy Balls Recipe Photo

Nutrition Facts (with chocolate chips) (Per 3 Balls, Approx):

Calories

196

Carbs

23g

Protein

5.4g

Fat

16.3g

Fiber

3.4g

Sugars

14g


7. Cordyceps Hot Chocolate


A soothing and warm drink to enjoy any time of day.


Ingredients :


  • 1 cup milk (or dairy-free)

  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder

  • 1 tbsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup

  • miniature marshmallows (optional)



Instructions :


1. Heat the milk in a small saucepan.

2. Stir in the cocoa powder, cordyceps powder, and maple syrup until smooth.

3. Serve hot and enjoy!


Total Servings: 1


Cordyceps Hot Chocolate Recipe Photo

Nutrition Facts(with whole milk) (Per Serving, Approx):

Calories

234

Carbs

32g

Protein

10g

Fat

9g

Fiber

3g

Sugars

24g


8. Cordyceps Granola Bars


Homemade granola bars with healthy ingredients for an easy snack.


Ingredients:


  • 1 cup oats

  • 1/2 cup dates, pitted

  • 1/4 cup almonds, chopped

  • 1 tbsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

  • 1/4 cup almond butter



Instructions :


1. Blend the dates in a food processor until smooth.

2. In a bowl, mix oats, almonds, cordyceps powder, and date paste.

3. Stir in honey and almond butter.

4. Press the mixture into a lined baking dish.

5. Refrigerate for 2 hours, then cut into 8 bars.


Total Servings: 8

Cordyceps Granola Bar Recipe Photo

Nutrition Facts (using Maple Syrup) (Per Serving, Approx):

Calories

167

Carbs

25.38g

Protein

4.25g

Fat

6.88g

Fiber

3.25g

Sugars

14.13g


9. Cordyceps Protein Shake


A post-workout drink to help with recovery.


Ingredients:


  • 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)

  • 1 tbsp cordyceps extract powder

  • 1 cup almond milk

  • 1/2 banana (optional)

  • Ice (as preferred)


Instructions:


1. Blend all ingredients together until smooth.

2. Drink after a workout to refuel and recover.



Cordyceps Protein Shake Recipe Photo

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving with 1/2 Banana):

Calories

223

Carbs

22g

Protein

26.5g

Fat

4.5g

Fiber

3.5g

Sugars

8g



Conclusion: Tasty Cordyceps Recipes to Energize Your Meals

Incorporating cordyceps recipes into your daily routine is a great way to harness the energy-boosting and brain-enhancing benefits of this unique mushroom. Whether you enjoy it in smoothies, ice cream, or granola bars, cordyceps extract powder offers a convenient and delicious way to improve your overall wellness.


If you want to take full advantage of the "functional" side of functional mushrooms, consider a mushroom super-blend like our Lucid Coffee, Chai, or Matcha powders. 


It harnesses the maximum benefits of these superfood mushrooms by pairing Cordyceps, Turkey Tail, Tremella, and Lion's Mane, plus powerful nootropics, like BCAA's, L-Theanine, Alpha-GPC, and more to boost brain power and bring you back into focus. Ready to become lucid? 

 

FAQ: Cordyceps Recipes

What is the best way to consume cordyceps?

Cordyceps are most commonly consumed in powdered form, which can be added to smoothies, coffee, and baked goods for easy incorporation.

What is the downside of cordyceps?

Cordyceps are generally safe, but they may cause mild digestive discomfort in some individuals. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

What does cordyceps taste like?

Cordyceps have a mild, earthy flavor, making them ideal for use in smoothies and beverages where they don’t overpower other ingredients.

Can I eat cordyceps raw?

While cordyceps can be eaten raw, it’s not recommended due to their tough texture. It’s better to use them in powdered or extract form.

Who cannot eat cordyceps?

People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking immunosuppressive medications should consult a doctor before consuming cordyceps.

What does cordyceps do to the brain?

Cordyceps are known to improve cognitive function, memory, and focus by increasing oxygen flow to the brain.


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