We covered protein coffee and how it can increase your protein intake before, but how do you make it taste good? Protein powder has the unfortunate reputation of being grainy or clumpy. But after some experimentation, we discovered ways to enjoy this extra morning boost with as little added sugar as possible, to keep it healthy but still delicious.
Try adding a protein shake to your favorite iced coffee, or froth protein powder with milk to create a smooth base. The end goal is the same: a delicious morning coffee that also helps keep you fuller for longer.
Note: How you make your coffee is up to you! I don’t have a coffeemaker or espresso machine, so I kept it simple with instant espresso and storebought cold brew.
And, a tip, especially for iced latte lovers: After adding ice to your glass, pour in the milk before the hot espresso, so your coffee doesn’t get watered down.
BANANA BREAD COLD BREW
Banana-themed drinks are all the rage right now. I’m not a huge banana lover (except for banana bread), but when I tried an iced banana cream matcha latte for the first time, I became a believer. This cold brew hits all the banana notes, and the vanilla protein shake adds creaminess.
Ingredients
- ½ ripe banana
- ¼ cup almond milk
- 2 tsp. pure maple syrup
- Ice
- ½ cup vanilla protein shake
- 8 oz. ready-to-drink cold brew
Instructions
In a blender, blend banana, almond milk, and maple syrup until thoroughly combined. Set aside.
Add ice, protein shake, and cold brew to tall glass. Top with banana milk mixture. Makes 1 serving.
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ICED CINNAMON ROLL LATTE
I love adding cinnamon to my coffee for its sweetness, but it can be a bit grainy because cinnamon doesn’t dissolve. Cinnamon sticks solve that problem, providing that cinnamon flavor without the residue. That’s the key ingredient to this cinnamon roll latte!
Ingredients
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp. brown sugar
- 2 shots espresso
- Ice
- ¾ cup vanilla protein shake
Instructions
Place cinnamon stick and brown sugar in small bowl. Brew 2 shots of espresso right over it and let cinnamon stick steep for 2-3 minutes. Use cinnamon stick to stir until sugar is fully dissolved.
Add ice to tall glass. Pour in protein shake. Add espresso mix. Stir until combined. Makes 1 serving.
Tip: If you’re using instant espresso, add it to the bowl with the cinnamon stick and brown sugar. Pour ½ cup of hot water directly into the bowl and continue as directed.
PUMPKIN SPICE COLD BREW
I know it’s not fall, but how can I not include this classic seasonal drink? With real pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, and maple syrup, you can bring fall vibes any time of the year, no cozy sweater necessary.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk of choice (we used oat)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 2 Tbsp. pumpkin puree
- 1 tsp. maple syrup
- 2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
- 1 pinch sea salt
- Ice
- 8 oz. ready-to-drink cold brew
Instructions
Add milk, protein powder, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and salt to a tall glass. Use a milk frother to blend until smooth, ensuring no protein powder clumps remain. (If you don’t have a milk frother, you can use a whisk. It may take a little more effort, but it’s worth it!)
Fill a cup with ice. Pour in cold brew, followed by pumpkin mixture. Stir and enjoy! Makes 1 serving.
ICED VANILLA LATTE
One of my favorite things to do on the weekend is visit local cafés. While I enjoy ordering different kinds of coffee or matcha each time, my friend, Kristin, sticks to her favorite order: an iced vanilla latte. You really can’t go wrong with the classics, and this recipe proves it!
Ingredients
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 cup milk of your choice (we used oat)
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- Ice
- 2 tsp. brewed espresso
Instructions
Use milk frother to blend protein powder, milk, and vanilla extract until combined and no clumps remain.
Add ice to a tall glass. Pour in protein powder mixture and add espresso on top. Mix until combined. Makes 1 serving.
Coffee creations
Did you know that Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. to grow coffee? Kona is synonymous with high-quality and gourmet beans. Read below for more:
kona coffee poke
You can enjoy Kona coffee in the form of poke! This recipe won first place in the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival’s annual recipe contest in 2017.
make kona coffee cold brew at home
Making cold brew isn’t hard, but it does require some planning. A local roast master shares his tips and tricks to making the perfect cold brew right in your kitchen.
protein coffee keeps you satisfied
Is swapping your usual coffee order for a protein-powered cup worth the hype? Registered dietitian Lianne Stephanos, R.D., spills the beans on what you need to know about joining the protein coffee craze.
