Blue spirulina, also known as phycocyanin, is a type of blue-green algae that has gained popularity in recent years due to its vibrant blue color and health benefits. While blue spirulina is often used in smoothies and other beverages, it can also be used for baking, adding a pop of color and nutrition to your favorite treats. In this blog post, we will explore how blue spirulina can be used for baking, as well as some delicious recipes to try.

What is Blue Spirulina?

Blue spirulina is a natural pigment derived from blue-green algae. It is rich in phycocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to a range of health benefits, including reduced inflammation, improved immune function, and enhanced liver health. In addition to its health benefits, blue spirulina is also prized for its vibrant blue color, which makes it a popular ingredient in food and beverages.

Using Blue Spirulina for Baking:

Blue spirulina can be used in a variety of baked goods, including cakes, cookies, and pastries, to add color and nutrition. Because blue spirulina is water-soluble, it can be easily incorporated into recipes that call for liquid ingredients like water or milk.

To use blue spirulina for baking, simply mix the powder with a small amount of water or other liquid until it forms a paste, then add it to your batter or dough. The amount of blue spirulina you use will depend on the recipe and the desired color intensity, but as a general rule, 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon of blue spirulina powder is enough for most recipes.

Blue Spirulina Baking Recipes:

1. Blue Spirulina Cupcakes:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon blue spirulina powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the oil, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and blue spirulina powder until well combined.

4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

5. Pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

6. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting with your favorite frosting.

7. Blue Spirulina Sugar Cookies:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon blue spirulina powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and blue spirulina powder.

5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut out cookies using cookie cutters.

7. Place the cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden brown.

8. Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with icing or sprinkles.

9. Blue Spirulina Banana Bread!! Eat and Enjoy!!!