The Healthiest Maca Smoothie Recipe (Tastes Like Caramel Ice Cream!)
Blend up this ultra-creamy maca smoothie for a little afternoon pick-me-up or post-workout refresher. It’s made with superfood Peruvian maca root and loaded with protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Bonus: it’s plant-based, utilizes 7-healthy ingredients, and only takes a few minutes to make!
Smoothies are one of my favorite ways to get nourishing elixirs into my daily diet. I love to drink them after hard workouts because then I know I’m fueling my body with all the right things.
This maca smoothie is crazy healthy, super delicious, and creamy, almost like you’re enjoying a bowl of yummy caramel ice cream! It’s so good that you’ll think you’re consuming a decadent dessert!
Enjoy this maca smoothie as the perfect to-go breakfast, afternoon energy booster, or post-workout refueler!
What is Maca Root?
Maca root is a carnivorous vegetable native to the Andes mountains of Peru. It originated in the Junin region, an area of incredibly high altitude – between 12,400 and 14,700 feet in elevation!
Maca root is nicknamed the mighty “Peruvian ginseng” because of its positive effects on physical stamina, endurance, and libido.
It’s a natural, whole-food, plant-based energy source. For thousands of years, the Incans understood the power of this superfood, and now, it is consumed worldwide!
Maca root can easily be added to smoothies, juices, shakes, and desserts.
The powder has a strong flavor, so you don’t need much to taste maca root in your smoothie or other dishes. It has an earthy, slightly nutty taste with just a subtle hint of sweetness.
Many people describe it as having a “butterscotch” or “caramel” flavor in various recipes.
See also:
What are Some Maca Root Benefits?
Maca root is known to have many health benefits and is considered safe to add to your diet.
Native Peruvian populations have been claiming these listed benefits of maca for hundreds of years. However, research is still being conducted to fully understand its health benefits.
May increase libido & fertility
Some evidence suggests that maca root may help improve sexual desire and even fertility in some people. It’s linked to increased sperm quality in men.
It may help relieve symptoms of menopause
Some studies suggest that maca root may benefit people experiencing menopausal symptoms. There’s some evidence that it may help alleviate hot flashes and interrupted sleep cycles.
May improve mood & energy levels
The maca root benefits include increased energy levels and positive effects on mood. One study, in particular, suggests that maca may help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression in women.
Cognitive function
Maca root powder may help improve cognitive function and even motor coordination! I love this maca smoothie recipe for my post-gym workout.
Cancer prevention
Because maca root is a carnivorous vegetable, it has known cancer-preventing qualities, making it a healthy addition to your diet!
Maca Smoothie Ingredients List:
Other Than the Maca Root Powder, You Will Need:
- 2 frozen bananas
- 1/2 tbsp hazelnut butter
- 1/2 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tsp cacao powder
- 1/3 cup plant-based milk (I like oat milk)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
2 tsp Maca Powder
…and the final ingredient for your maca smoothie!
How to Make This Maca Smoothie:
It’s easy and quick to do! Simply add all the ingredients above to a high-speed blender and process until smooth.
If it’s too thick, add a little more of your plant-based milk to thin it out. And, if you like, you can top off this smoothie with either banana slices, additional cacao powder, or even some fresh granola for a bit of crunch!
Recipe Card:
Nutrition Information:
Serving: 1 smoothie | Calories: 435 calories | Carbohydrates: 86g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 2.9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2.7g | Sodium: 63.5mg 4% DV | Potassium: 1194.6 mg 46% DV | Fiber: 9.4g 38% DV | Sugar: 48g | Iron: 3.3 mg 18% DV | Calcium: 165.2 mg 17% DV | Vitamin C: 40.5 mg 54% DV
Did you make this recipe?
Tag @messybun_traveler on Instagram and hashtag it #messybuntraveler so we can see all the Peruvian deliciousness! Also, don’t forget to pin this maca smoothie recipe!
