Coffee Protein Shake Recipe
If you rely on coffee to start your day but also want something filling and nutritious, this Coffee Protein Shake Recipe is the perfect solution. It gives you that bold coffee flavor you love plus a solid protein boost to keep you energized—without needing a full breakfast or sugary coffee drinks.
I’ve tested plenty of coffee protein shakes over the years, and this one consistently hits the sweet spot between creamy, smooth, and coffee-forward. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to balance coffee and protein without bitterness, get a thick café-style texture, and customize it for different diets. I’ll also share helpful tips, variations, and FAQs so your coffee protein shake turns out perfect every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Real coffee flavor with smooth, creamy texture
-
High in protein to keep you full longer
-
Quick and easy—ready in under 5 minutes
-
Perfect for breakfast or post-workout
-
Customizable for dairy-free, low-sugar, or vegan diets
Ingredients & Prep
Main Ingredients Prep
-
Brewed coffee – Use strong brewed coffee or cold brew, completely cooled.
-
Protein powder – Vanilla or chocolate protein powder works best.
-
Banana – Adds natural sweetness and creaminess.
Seasonings, Sauces, or Flavor Base
-
Cocoa powder (optional) – For a mocha-style shake.
-
Vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and smooths coffee bitterness.
Pantry Staples
-
Milk of choice – Dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
-
Ice cubes – Helps create a thick, frosty texture.
-
Honey or maple syrup (optional) – Add only if you want extra sweetness.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep
Brew your coffee ahead of time and let it cool completely. Hot coffee will melt the ice and make the shake watery.
If you want a thicker shake, freeze the banana in advance by slicing it and placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
Cooking Method (Blending)
Add the cooled coffee and milk to the blender first. This helps the blades move smoothly.
Next, add protein powder, banana, vanilla extract, cocoa powder (if using), and ice.
Blend on high for 30–60 seconds until smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides if needed, then blend again briefly.
Doneness or Texture Check
The coffee protein shake should be thick, smooth, and drinkable.
-
Too thick? Add a splash of milk or coffee.
-
Too thin? Add more ice or frozen banana.
Resting or Final Touches
Pour into a tall glass or travel cup and enjoy immediately. For a café-style finish, dust lightly with cocoa powder or cinnamon.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Using hot coffee – This ruins texture.
-
Low-quality protein powder – Can taste chalky or bitter.
-
Too much ice – Can water down flavor.
Recommended Tools
-
High-speed blender
-
Measuring cups
-
Travel mug or tall glass
Storage & Reheating Tips
This shake is best enjoyed fresh. You can store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir well before drinking. Do not reheat.
Flavor Variations
Spicy Version
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, coffeehouse-style flavor.
Healthy / Special Diet Option
-
Vegan: Use plant-based protein powder and non-dairy milk.
-
Low-carb: Skip the banana and sweeteners; add extra ice instead.
-
Extra protein: Add Greek yogurt or collagen peptides.
Global Flavor Twist
-
Mocha: Use chocolate protein powder and cocoa powder
-
Vanilla latte: Use vanilla protein and extra vanilla extract
-
Nutty: Add almond butter or peanut butter
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this Coffee Protein Shake:
-
As a quick breakfast
-
Before or after workouts
-
As a mid-morning energy boost
Pair it with toast, a hard-boiled egg, or fruit for a more filling meal.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best within 24 hours. Store in the fridge and shake well before drinking.
How do I fix common mistakes?
If it tastes bitter, add banana or vanilla. If it’s watery, use frozen fruit or less liquid next time.
Conclusion
This Coffee Protein Shake Recipe is the easiest way to combine your morning coffee and breakfast into one creamy, satisfying drink. It’s energizing, filling, and endlessly customizable—everything a busy morning needs. Readers often say it replaces their coffee shop protein drinks completely.
If you enjoyed this recipe, try a vanilla latte protein shake or a chocolate mocha smoothie for more café-style blends at home. Blend one up tomorrow and start your day strong.
Ingredients
- Main Ingredients
- ½ –¾ cup strong brewed coffee or cold brew fully cooled
- 1 scoop protein powder vanilla or chocolate
- 1 ripe banana fresh or frozen
- Flavor Base
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cocoa powder optional, for mocha flavor
- Pantry Staples
- ½ –¾ cup milk of choice dairy, almond, oat, or soy
- ½ –1 cup ice cubes
- 1 –2 tsp honey or maple syrup optional
Instructions
- Prep
- Brew coffee ahead of time and let it cool completely.
- For a thicker shake, slice and freeze the banana in advance.
- Blending Method
- Add cooled coffee and milk to the blender first.
- Add protein powder, banana, vanilla extract, cocoa powder (if using), and ice.
- Blend on high for 30–60 seconds until smooth and creamy.
- Scrape down sides if needed and blend briefly again.
- Texture Check
- Shake should be thick and smooth.
- Too thick? Add a splash of milk or coffee.
- Too thin? Add more ice or frozen banana.
- Finish
- Pour into a tall glass or travel mug. Optional: dust lightly with cocoa powder or cinnamon.
Notes
- Always use cooled coffee—hot coffee melts ice and thins the shake.
- Choose a protein powder you enjoy; flavor quality makes a big difference.
- Frozen banana improves thickness without watering down flavor.
