Healthy Iced Coffee Recipes With Added Protein Boost - Refreshing, Simple, and Satisfying
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8–10 oz cold brew coffee or chilled brewed coffee
- 1 scoop protein powder (whey, casein, or plant-based)
- 1/2–3/4 cup milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, soy, or cashew)
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, or zero-calorie sweetener (optional)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Ice
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, enhances flavor)
- Vanilla Latte: Use vanilla protein, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Mocha: Use chocolate protein or add 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder. A dash of cinnamon or a tiny pinch of cayenne adds depth.
- Caramel Sea Salt: Use unflavored or vanilla protein, 1 teaspoon caramel syrup (or sugar-free caramel), and a small pinch of sea salt.
- Coconut Almond: Use coconut milk, vanilla protein, and 1/4 teaspoon almond extract. Top with shaved coconut if you like.
- Banana Smoothie Iced Coffee: Blend 1/2 frozen banana with the base recipe for a thicker, milkshake-like texture.
Instructions
- Chill your coffee: Brew coffee in advance and let it cool completely in the fridge. Cold brew is naturally smoother and less acidic, but regular brewed coffee works well.
- Mix the protein first: In a shaker bottle or blender, combine milk and protein powder. Shake or blend until completely smooth. Do this before adding coffee to avoid clumps.
- Sweeten and flavor: Add vanilla, sweetener, and any flavor boosts (cocoa, caramel, spices). Blend or shake again.
- Combine with coffee: Fill a glass with ice. Pour in the coffee, then top with your protein-milk mixture. Stir gently to swirl.
- Taste and adjust: Add more milk for creaminess, more coffee for stronger flavor, or a pinch of salt to round out sweetness.
- Optional blender method: For a frosty texture, blend everything with a handful of ice until slushy.