This protein coffee is a surefire way to add protein to your morning drink! It makes the perfect breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up in less than two minutes.
Protein coffee, or “Proffee,” is a hot coffee with added protein. Popularized on Facebook, Tiktok, it’s a fun and healthy way to get your caffeine fix. Protein powder itself supports muscle growth and repair and has been linked to weight management, which is why it’s a popular pre- or post-workout option.
Why I love this recipe
- Perfect hot or cold. You can enjoy it hot or cold, or even as a coffee protein shake.
- Packed with protein. If you add the full scoop of protein, this recipe packs in 25 grams of protein.
- Low calorie and low carb. It’s healthy and low in calories, with just 67 calories per serving. If you are watching your carbs, there is just 1 gram per serving.
- Satisfying. The addition of caffeine not only gives you more energy but it helps to keep hunger at bay.
Course: Drinks Cuisine: American Prep Time: 1-minute Cook Time: 1-minute
Total Time: 2-minutes Servings:2 servings Calories: 65kcal
Ingredients needed
- 1 cup brewed coffee cooled, or cold brew
- 1/4 cup protein powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional
- 2 tablespoons milk optional
- Protein powder. I like using vanilla protein powder as it gives a subtle sweetness and vanilla flavor, but use whichever protein you like. I’ve included all my tested options below.
- Cold brewed coffee. Either chilled brewed coffee (iced coffee) or a cold brew coffee. I like to mix my cold-brew concentrate with around one cup of water to make the perfect drink.
- Sugar of choice. Optional, but if your protein powder is unsweetened or you like a sweeter coffee, add a teaspoon or two of your favorite sugar.
- Milk of choice. I sometimes like to add some dairy-free milk (soy milk, oat milk, or unsweetened almond milk) for an extra bit of creaminess but it’s completely optional.
How to make a protein coffee
Step 1- Combine ingredients. Add all the ingredients to a high-speed blender.
Step 2- Blend. Blend until completely immersed and smooth.
How to make it hot
If you prefer a hot beverage, start by whisking together the protein powder and enough hot water to make it smooth, almost like syrup. Slowly add your espresso or cold brew then top it up with boiling water.
Best protein powder to use
The type of protein powder you use makes all the difference. I tested this recipe out with multiple kinds of protein powder and these three are the best both in taste and texture.
- Whey protein powder– The cleanest of all protein powders, this kind is derived from milk and has a rapid absorption rate. It also comes in tons of flavors.
- Brown rice protein powder– No dairy or gluten in it, it’s easy to digest and derived from brown rice. It typically only comes in vanilla or chocolate. It’s vegan friendly, too.
- Casein protein powder– Similar to whey, this protein powder is also derived from dairy, but it is slow digesting. It’s naturally thicker than the other protein powders.
Recipe tips and variations
- Use a good quality instant coffee because not all brands are the same. Alternatively, use homemade cold brew.
- Always use a blender to mix everything together to prevent clumps of protein powder from remaining in your drink.
- For a more intense coffee hit, you can use a shot of espresso instead. If I’m really struggling the night before, I do a 50/50 combination of water to cold brew.
- Instead of adding sweetener to the coffee, use coffee-flavored protein powder.
- For a creamier beverage, replace some of the water with your favorite milk. Or, you can replace the water completely with milk and Greek yogurt and make a coffee smoothie.
Storage instructions
To store: Leftovers will keep well in the refrigerator, covered, for up to three days. Give the drink a good mix before consuming.
To freeze: Pour the proffee in an ice cube tray and when ready to enjoy, blend it back up.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving Calories: 65kcal Carbohydrates: 3g Protein: 11g Fat: 1g Sodium: 42mg Potassium: 99mg Fiber: 0.04g Sugar: 3g Vitamin A: 36IU Calcium: 64mg Iron: 1mg NET CARBS: 3g
Frequently asked questions
Can I add more protein?
Add up to 1/4 cup of protein for an additional 25 grams of protein per serving.
Can I make this with decaffeinated coffee?
Yes, use decaffeinated coffee if you prefer.
Is Proffee good for weight loss?
Adding protein powder to your coffee is a good way to cut out some of the extra sugar and calories from creamers.