Protein Coffee (Iced or Hot)

A glass of protein iced coffee with a glass straw and another glass in the background.

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This Protein Coffee (Proffee) recipe packs 29 grams of protein into a flavorful, energizing drink that can be made iced or hot. It's perfect for busy mornings, post-workout recovery, or anytime you need a nutritious pick-me-up.

Prep Time5

Total Time5

Course: Breakfast, Drinks

Cuisine: American

Diet: Low Calorie, Vegetarian

Servings:

Calories: 164kcal

Author: Dr. Sonali Ruder

Equipment

milk frother

Ingredients

½ cup milk, any type (I used skim milk)
1 scoop vanilla protein powder
Ice cubes
1 cup (8 oz) iced coffee, like cold brew coffee, or 2 shots brewed espresso
Optional: sweetener

Instructions

Place the protein powder in a glass or foaming pitcher and pour the milk on top. Use a handheld frother to mix them together until frothy.
Fill a glass with ice and pour in the iced coffee or 2 shots of espresso, to make an iced latte. Add any desired sweetener like sugar or stevia. Pour in the foamed protein milk. Add a straw and enjoy!
To Make This Hot: Follow the same recipe but pour the protein milk into 8 ounces of hot coffee (or 2 shots of espresso) instead of iced coffee.

Notes

Be sure to use a protein powder that you like the taste of. You can experiment with different flavors like vanilla, chocolate or caramel.
For an extra protein boost, consider using a protein-rich milk like dairy milk or soy milk. I also like to use oat milk because it foams up well and becomes very creamy.
Cold brew coffee is an excellent option for this recipe, as it offers a smooth and robust flavor. I like to make my own cold brew but you can also buy it. For a stronger drink, I will brew a couple of shots of espresso.
Use coffee ice cubes made from your favorite coffee to keep your iced protein coffee from diluting.
You can also make protein coffee with a prepared protein shake instead of protein powder. Try to find one that doesn't have too much added sugar.

Nutrition