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GET IT NOWWhy I Switched From Bulletproof To Protein Coffee
This protein coffee, or “proffee,” is my newest obsession. I’ve been on a high-protein kick lately — you might’ve seen my collection of high protein recipes and newest protein brownies just this week — but this is one I can easily add to my daily routine.
I used to make bulletproof coffee almost every morning, and while I still love how creamy it is, I wanted more of a coffee vibe with a boost. After testing different combos, I landed on one that’s smooth and creamy without any artificial sweeteners. Here’s why I made the switch:
- Big protein boost to start the day – Bulletproof gave me energy, but no protein. This one’s a lot more satisfying with a whopping 28 grams of protein per cup! It’s also naturally gluten-free, with no added sugar.
- Make it hot or iced – I go for hot when I want something cozy and iced coffee when I’m rushing out the door. My method works for both!
- Tastes like actual coffee – Some versions I tried were gritty, too sweet, or completely covered up the coffee flavor. This one’s smooth, creamy, and still lets the coffee shine.
- No special tools, minimal cleanup – Unlike some versions I’ve seen, my protein coffee recipe doesn’t need a blender, frother, or any special tools. All you need is a jar and a mug, so cleanup is a breeze.
This high protein coffee is the best of all worlds — it tastes amazing, gives me my coffee fix, helps me reach my protein goals, and keeps me full for hours. Make it with me and you’ll see why I’m hooked! ☕️💪
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for my protein coffee recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
- Brewed Coffee – Hot coffee, cold brew, or espresso all work here. I usually go with brewed coffee, but espresso gives it a stronger kick. And keep in mind, a high quality coffee makes a high quality protein coffee!
- Protein Powder – You can use any protein powder for coffee, but I prefer this whey protein isolate because it’s pure, complete protein without fillers or sweeteners. It also gave my protein coffee the best texture compared to other options I tried. Any kind of protein powder you like will work, though. My second-favorite is collagen.
- Whole Milk – I used whole milk for a creamy texture, but any milk you like will work. If you’re dairy-free, try almond or coconut milk. If you want this protein coffee a little indulgent but still high protein, replace the milk with half and half.
- Wholesome Yum Zero Sugar Vanilla Syrup – This part’s totally optional, but I like adding my vanilla syrup for a little natural sweetness without the sugar. You could also use my sugar-free simple syrup, liquid allulose, or even a pinch of Besti.
How To Make Protein Coffee
I have step-by-step photos here to help you visualize the recipe. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
- Mix the protein base. Add the milk, a scoop of protein powder, and syrup (if using) to a jar or shaker bottle. (These are my favorite lately, shown below.) Shake until smooth and frothy.
- Pour over coffee. Brew your favorite coffee, add to a mug, and pour the protein mixture over the top. Give it a quick stir and enjoy!
You can also make iced protein coffee! Just pour the coffee over ice.
My Recipe Tips
- Want it stronger? Swap the brewed coffee for a shot of espresso or two. I do this when I need a little extra caffeine, and it still blends up the same way.
- If your protein powder clumps easily, try adding the milk first, then the powder, and shake really well. A shaker cup works great for protein drinks, or you can use a blender if that’s easier.
- For an extra frothy texture, you can blend the first step in a blender instead of shaking it in a jar. Then add the coffee and blend again. I love the texture when I make my protein coffee this way, but I don’t always want the extra cleanup, so most days I just stick with these jars.
- If you’re making an iced version, let your coffee cool before pouring it over ice so it doesn’t get watered down. If you have extra time, you can even freeze coffee in an ice cube tray, which prevents the watered-down effect completely. Cold brew works great, too!
- I also tested a version using cottage cheese as the creamer. I know it doesn’t sound great, but it actually wasn’t bad and can work if you want even more protein. Just use about 1/3 cup cottage cheese in place of the milk and blend it like I mentioned above. Blending smooths out the texture completely, but I could still taste it a little, so I preferred the version with protein powder and milk or cream.
- Craving a chocolate protein coffee? Just use chocolate protein powder instead of vanilla and add a drizzle of my sugar-free chocolate syrup. It gives my protein coffee a mocha vibe!
Protein Coffee (Hot Or Iced)
My protein coffee recipe can be hot or iced, for a boost + protein in one easy drink! It's creamy, customizable, and ready in minutes.
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Instructions
Tap on the times in the instructions to start a kitchen timer.
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Combine the milk, whey protein isolate, and vanilla syrup (if using) in a jar. Shake until frothy and dissolved.
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For a hot protein coffee: Pour the milk protein mixture over your brewed hot coffee in a mug. Stir and enjoy!
For an iced protein coffee: Fill a glass with ice. Pour the coffee over it, then the milk protein mixture. Stir and enjoy!
LAST STEP: Leave a rating to help other readers, or tag me @wholesomeyum on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you!
Maya’s Recipe Notes
Serving size: 1 12-ounce mug (entire recipe)
- Tips: Check out my recipe tips above to help you customize your protein coffee, with the best flavo and texture.
- Note on nutrition info: I used my zero sugar coffee syrup for this recipe, so the nutrition facts reflect that. If you use any of my other sugar-free options, the numbers will stay about the same. Just keep in mind that using cane sugar or another sweetener will increase the sugar and carb counts.
I provide nutrition facts as a courtesy. Have questions about calculations or why you got a different result? Please see my nutrition policy.
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Protein Coffee
More Recipes With A Protein Boost
If you’re loving this protein coffee as much as I am, especially after a workout, here are a few more recipes with a protein boost to try next:
10 Comments
Jan
0I just made this for the first time – it’s delicious & a great way to start the day!!
Wholesome Yum D
0So happy it was a hit for you, Jan! Love hearing it made for such a great start to your morning!
Shari C
0Thanks for the recipe. I’m making mine with unsweetened almond milk. I tried the “shake it up” method, but my powder doesn’t blend well that way. I use a frother instead.
Wholesome Yum D
0You’re welcome, Shari! Using a frother is such a smart workaround if the shake method isn’t mixing well. Thanks for sharing!
CATHERINE L OBRIEN
0The link to your favorite protein does not work. I am curious as to what you use.
Maya | Wholesome Yum
0Sorry about that, Catherine! The link should work now.
Judy Ross
0I quit drinking coffee and decaf, so I mix two heaping tablespoons of powdered milk, a half tablespoon of cacao, sweetener, a scoop of collagen, a scoop of coconut oil, and a tablespoon of RYZE mushroom coffee to make my morning drink. I tried adding the protein powder and it was a mess. I’ll give it a try again. I whip it with a frothier.
Maya | Wholesome Yum
0Thank you for sharing, Judy! That isn’t how I make it so am not sure why the protein powder would have issues with that combination, but don’t think it should. Try the jar method, it’s less messy!
Nancy Bird
0The link for the whey protein isolate was broken.
Maya | Wholesome Yum
0Sorry about that, Nancy! The link is fixed, it was an Amazon issue. Please let me know how your coffee turns out!