This Iced Coffee Protein Shake is a refreshing pick-me-up that gives you both energy and nutrition! With rich coffee flavor and creamy protein, it’s a real treat for coffee lovers.
Who knew staying fit could taste so good? I love sipping on this shake in the morning or after a workout—it’s like dessert in a glass, but good for you! ☕️💪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brewed Coffee: Regular coffee is the base of this shake. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, try using decaf coffee instead. Cold brew works great too, as it has a smoother flavor.
Milk: Use any milk you like! Dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk are all good choices. I often go for almond milk as it adds a nice nutty flavor without too many calories.
Protein Powder: If you prefer plant-based options, there are great vegan protein powders available. Vanilla gives a creamy taste while chocolate has a rich flavor. Mix it up and see what you enjoy most!
Nut Butter: You can swap almond butter for peanut butter or even try sunflower seed butter if allergies are a concern. They all add creaminess and healthy fats!
Caramel Sauce: If you want to cut back on sugar, try using a sugar-free caramel syrup or even skip it altogether. A dash of vanilla extract can also add sweetness without the extra calories.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
- Use chilled or room temperature coffee; hot coffee can melt the ice too quickly.
- Add ice cubes to the blender first, followed by liquids and powders. This helps break up the ice evenly.
- Blend on high speed until you see a smooth consistency, stopping occasionally to scrape down the sides.
Don’t forget, if it’s too thick, just add a bit more milk and blend again for that perfect sippable shake!
How to Make an Iced Coffee Protein Shake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder
- 1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon sweetener of choice (maple syrup, honey, or sugar), optional
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Coffee beans, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Iced Coffee Protein Shake takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend a few minutes brewing your coffee and blending everything together for a quick and energizing treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brew and Chill Your Coffee:
Start by brewing a cup of your favorite coffee. Once it’s ready, let it cool down to room temperature. If you want to speed things up, you can chill it in the fridge while you gather your other ingredients.
2. Gather Ingredients in the Blender:
In a blender, add your cooled coffee, milk, protein powder, almond or peanut butter, caramel sauce, and ice cubes. If you like your shake sweeter, don’t forget to add your choice of sweetener here!
3. Blend Until Smooth:
Blend everything on high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the blender if anything sticks. Adjust the thickness if needed; if it’s too thick, just add a little more milk and blend again.
4. Pour and Decorate:
Pour the shake into a glass or mason jar. For a special touch, add a generous swirl of whipped cream on top. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the whipped cream for that delicious finishing touch!
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finally, add a few whole coffee beans on top for garnish. Insert a straw, serve it up, and enjoy your refreshing protein-packed iced coffee shake!
Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Brewed Coffee?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, simply mix 1-2 tablespoons of instant coffee with hot water to equal 1 cup, then let it cool. This is a great shortcut without compromising too much flavor!
How Can I Make This Shake Vegan?
To make this shake vegan, use plant-based milk (like almond or coconut), a vegan protein powder, and substitute the caramel sauce with a vegan version or simply skip it. Your shake will still be delicious!
Can I Store Leftovers?
It’s best to enjoy this shake fresh, but if you have leftovers, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good shake before drinking, as some separation may occur.
What Can I Substitute for Nut Butter?
If you’re allergic to nuts or prefer a different flavor, you can use sun butter (made from sunflower seeds) or omit it altogether. Adding a banana can also provide a creamy texture!
