Pin it My gym buddy Sarah turned me on to this after watching me choke down a chalky protein shake one too many times. Now it is the only way I actually look forward to post-workout nutrition instead of treating it like a punishment.
The first time I made this for my husband, he eyed it suspiciously like I was trying to poison him with health food. Two sips in he was asking me to make him one every morning.
Ingredients
- 150 ml (½ cup + 2 tbsp) cold brew coffee, chilled: Cold brew is smoother and less acidic than hot brewed, so it does not fight with the protein flavor
- 200 ml (about ¾ cup + 2 tbsp) ready-to-drink vanilla or chocolate protein shake: The ready-to-drink ones blend way better than powder and give you that creamy coffee shop texture instantly
- 1–2 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional): Only add this if your protein shake is not already sweet enough
- Ice cubes: Essential for that refreshing iced latte vibe
- Pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder: Makes it feel fancy and hides any lingering protein powder taste
Tired of Takeout? 🥡
Get 10 meals you can make faster than delivery arrives. Seriously.
One email. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Instructions
- Prep your glass:
- Grab your tallest glass and fill it to the top with ice cubes.
- Add the coffee base:
- Pour that chilled cold brew right over the ice.
- Pour in the protein:
- Add your protein shake slowly so it does not splash everywhere.
- Sweeten if needed:
- Taste it first then add maple syrup or honey only if it really needs it.
- Mix it up:
- Stir thoroughly with a spoon until everything is blended and creamy.
- Finish with flair:
- Dust the top with cinnamon or cocoa and serve immediately.
Pin it This drink got me through morning workouts when I wanted to quit five minutes in. There is something about knowing that creamy coffee goodness is waiting that makes you push through.
Making It Thicker
Throw everything in a blender with extra ice when you want something closer to a frappe. The texture becomes like a milkshake and hides any graininess from the protein completely.
Flavor Variations
Caramel protein shake turns this into something that tastes like a fancy coffee shop drink. Mocha and vanilla both work beautifully, so experiment with whatever you have in the fridge.
Batch Prep
Mix a large container of cold brew with protein shakes in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just pour over ice when you need it.
- Pre-mixed keeps for about 24 hours before the protein starts tasting weird
- Shake well before pouring since separation is totally normal
- Add ice right before serving so it does not water down
Pin it Simple and sneaky—this is how I get my protein without feeling like I am on some strict fitness plan. Just good coffee that happens to be good for you too.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different protein shake flavors?
Yes, caramel, mocha, or plant-based flavors work well for varying taste profiles.
- → How can I make the blend thicker?
Blend all ingredients with ice in a blender for a frappe-like consistency.
- → Is this suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Use a gluten-free protein shake to keep the beverage gluten-free.
- → What optional sweeteners can I add?
Maple syrup or honey can be added for extra sweetness if desired.
- → Can I make a vegan version?
Yes, choose plant-based protein shakes and dairy-free cold brew to keep it vegan.
