Coffee lovers, this one’s for you! Protein coffee, also known as ‘Proffee’, is one of the latest viral TikTok trends circulating around the internet. Considering it’s caffeinated, protein-packed, and ultra-delicious, it’s safe to say we’re big fans of this trendy recipe! Just as it sounds, protein coffee is simply protein added to coffee. That said, there are numerous ways to make this energy-boosting beverage. With health in mind, we’re breaking down all you need to know.
Keep reading to learn the benefits of proffee, the healthiest ways to enjoy it, and simple swaps that will make protein coffee a delicious and nutritious addition to your morning.
What is Protein Coffee?
Protein coffee is simply a combination of two of our favorite things — coffee and protein. While there’s no one way to make protein coffee, the most popular proffee recipes are made by blending protein powder into hot or cold coffee. The fusion of these ingredients results in a creamy coffee-flavored blend!
Without a specific recipe, proffee is simple to make and easy to customize. Choose your ingredients based on your flavor preferences and dietary needs! You could opt for plain coffee or cold brew, flavored or unflavored protein powder, the addition of dairy or non-dairy milk, or enjoy it hot or cold — the options are endless! That said, what you add to your blend will change the nutritional value. So, we’re sharing the healthiest ways to enjoy it!
The Healthiest Ways to Enjoy Proffee
#1 Use Whole Food Ingredients
If you’re trying to keep your protein coffee healthy, skip the fillers, additives, and artificial ingredients! Instead, stick to real foods. Steer clear of protein powders that include any of the aforementioned ingredients and opt for brands that use whole foods.
#2 Sweeten Naturally (If At All)
When possible, try to avoid sweetened coffee or protein powders. This allows you to control the quality and amount of sweetener added! If you are sweetening your blend, opt for a natural sweetener like raw honey or Medjool dates.
Feel free to get creative here, too! Making a cold protein coffee recipe? Try adding fresh or frozen banana or coconut chunks in lieu of artificial sweeteners. Enjoying a hot proffee? Sprinkle in some cinnamon or cacao powder!
#3 Choose a High-Quality Protein Source
If choosing protein powder, look for quality brands that use minimal ingredients such as pea protein, collagen protein, or whey protein.
As an alternative to protein powder, you can also blend your coffee with a store-bought protein shake! Just be sure to read the ingredient label. Other protein coffee options include using a protein-rich coffee creamer or high-protein nut or seed milk!
For protein shakes and creamers, some quality store-bought brands include:
RELATED: The 6 Healthiest Protein Powders According to an RD
#4 Boost Your Protein Coffee with Superfood Add-Ins
With the addition of superfoods, take your protein coffee recipe to the next level — both in taste and nutrition!
To boost your cup, here are some tasty superfood add-ins to consider:
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground ginger
- Unsweetened cacao or cocoa powder
- Maca powder
- Reishi powder
- Coconut oil or ghee
- Fresh or ground turmeric
RELATED: 8 Ways to Boost Your Coffee (Including Superfoods For All Your Needs)
How to Make Healthy Protein Coffee (Hot or Iced!)
This easy-prep recipe can be easily customized and enjoyed both hot or cold. To enjoy cold protein coffee, use chilled coffee and blend with (or serve over) ice. For a hot proffee recipe, use hot coffee and steamed non-dairy milk.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coffee of choice (such as brewed coffee or cold brew)
- ½ -1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (oat, almond, or cashew work well)
- 1 scoop protein powder of choice (such as collagen or plant-based protein)
Optional ingredients:
- Sweetener of choice
- Superfood add-ins, such as cacao powder or cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
Step #1: Prepare brewed coffee, chilling or heating as necessary.
Step #2: Using a hand-held or high-speed blender, blend all the ingredients (including any add-ins) until smooth, creamy, and frothy.
Step #3: Serve warm or pour mixture over ice. Enjoy!
Protein Coffee: A Tasty & Trendy Way to Start the Day
If you’re looking to enhance your morning, give this protein coffee recipe a try! Aside from being delicious and nutritious, adding protein to your coffee can help keep you satiated and reduce those jitters that occur from consuming coffee on an empty stomach. Keep it simple with this three-ingredient recipe, or boost your cup with some healthy superfood add-ins! Perfect on busy mornings, before or after an early workout, or as a mid-day shake when you need an energy boost.
