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If you love the taste of coffee and are looking for ways to boost your protein intake or find a satisfying meal replacement or snack, iced coffee protein shakes might be perfect for you! Combining the rich flavor of coffee with the satiating power of protein, these shakes can be a delicious and convenient option.

When incorporated thoughtfully into a balanced diet, protein shakes can potentially support weight management goals by helping you feel full, supporting muscle maintenance, and providing a controlled calorie option compared to less nutritious choices. They can work well as a quick breakfast, a post-workout recovery drink, or a satisfying afternoon pick-me-up.

Ready to blend up some flavor?

Try These 5 Delicious Blends:

Here are five different recipes to get you started. Feel free to adjust ingredients like sweetness level or type of milk based on your preferences and dietary needs.

1. Banana Coffee Protein Shake

A classic combination that’s creamy and naturally sweet.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup unsweetened cold brew coffee (or strong chilled coffee)
  • 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder
  • 1 frozen banana, chopped
  • ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
  • 1-2 cups ice cubes
  • Optional: 1-2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and protein
• Instructions:
  1. Place all ingredients into your blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more ice or a splash more liquid if needed to reach your desired consistency.
  3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

2. Vegan Coconut Coffee Protein Shake

A tropical twist using plant-based ingredients.

• Ingredients:
  • ½ cup full-fat coconut milk (chilled, from a can)
  • ½ cup water or unsweetened plant-based milk (adjust for consistency)
  • 1 scoop vegan vanilla or chocolate protein powder
  • 1 frozen banana, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder (or ½ cup cold brew coffee, reduce other liquid)
  • ½ cup crushed ice
  • Optional Garnish: Unsweetened coconut flakes
• Instructions:
  1. Combine the coconut milk, water/plant milk, protein powder, banana, coffee powder/cold brew, and ice in your blender.
  2. Blend thoroughly until smooth and thick.
  3. Pour into a glass and sprinkle with coconut flakes, if desired. Makes a great dairy-free breakfast option!

3. Salted Caramel Coffee Protein Shake

Satisfy your craving for something sweet and salty with this clever blend.

• Ingredients:
  • ½ cup cold brew coffee (or strong chilled coffee)
  • 1 scoop vanilla or salted caramel flavored protein powder
  • ¼ cup low-fat cottage cheese (adds creaminess and protein)
  • ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
  • 1 cup crushed ice
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon caramel extract (adjust to taste)
• Instructions:
  1. Add all ingredients to your blender.
  2. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. The cottage cheese should blend in seamlessly.
  3. Pour into a glass for a surprisingly decadent-tasting, protein-packed treat.

4. Chocolate Peanut Butter Coffee Shake

A rich and satisfying shake perfect for chocolate and peanut butter lovers.

• Ingredients:
  • ½ cup double-strength chilled coffee (or 1 shot espresso + water/milk)
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
  • ½ cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened non-dairy milk)
  • 1 tablespoon natural peanut butter
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1-2 cups ice cubes
• Instructions:
  1. Place all ingredients in your blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and no large ice chunks remain.
  3. Pour into a glass. You can drizzle with a tiny bit of melted peanut butter if desired, but be mindful of added calories.

5. Pumpkin Spice Coffee Protein Shake

Enjoy the flavors of fall any time of year with this spiced shake.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup frozen coffee cubes (or ½ cup cold brew + 1 cup ice)
  • 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder
  • ¾ cup unsweetened coconut milk (or milk of choice)
  • 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or more, to taste)
  • Optional Garnish: Pinch of cinnamon
• Instructions:
  1. Combine the frozen coffee/cold brew & ice, protein powder, milk, pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice in your blender.
  2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Pour into a glass and garnish with a pinch of cinnamon if you like.

Important Considerations

• Customization: Feel free to adjust coffee strength, sweetness (using natural options like stevia or monk fruit sparingly if needed), type of milk, and protein powder to suit your taste and dietary requirements.
• Role in Your Diet: These shakes can be a convenient breakfast, a fulfilling snack, or a great post-workout option. However, they shouldn’t replace whole food meals entirely. Aim for a balanced diet overall.
• Calorie Awareness: While these recipes aim to be healthy, the final calorie and macronutrient count will vary significantly based on the specific protein powder, milk type, size of fruit, and any optional additions (like yogurt, nut butters, or toppings). Be mindful of this if tracking your intake.
• Protein Powder Choice: Choose a protein powder that aligns with your needs (whey, casein, soy, pea, rice, etc.) and check its nutritional information.

Conclusion

Iced coffee protein shakes offer a delicious and practical way to increase your protein intake while satisfying your coffee craving. They can be a valuable tool in supporting your health and fitness goals when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes!