This Iced Coffee Protein Shake is a refreshing treat with a kick! It’s perfect for hot days when you need a boost of energy and a yummy flavor.
Mixing coffee with protein powder and ice makes this shake creamy and smooth. I love enjoying it as a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack—who doesn’t love coffee and a little protein? ☕💪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brewed Coffee: Use your favorite coffee for this shake. I recommend a medium roast for a balanced flavor. If you’re short on time, instant coffee will work too! Just mix it with water according to the package instructions.
Protein Powder: You can choose between chocolate or vanilla protein powder, depending on your taste preference. I love chocolate for a richer flavor! If you’re looking for a plant-based option, there are great pea or soy protein powders available.
Milk: I prefer almond milk for its lightness, but feel free to use any type of milk you like—dairy, oat, or coconut milk are all excellent choices. If you want a creamier shake, opt for whole milk or a creamy nut milk.
Sweetener: This is totally optional! If you enjoy your coffee sweet, honey or maple syrup adds a nice touch. You can also use a sugar substitute if you’re watching your sugar intake.
How Can You Achieve a Creamy and Smooth Shake?
Getting that perfect blend is key to a smooth Iced Coffee Protein Shake. Here are some tips to ensure your shake turns out great every time:
- Start with cooled coffee to prevent the ice from melting too quickly. Warm coffee can result in a watery shake!
- Always blend the ingredients in the order listed. This helps the protein powder and ice mix well with the coffee and milk.
- Blending on high speed will give you a frothy, creamy texture. If your blender isn’t powerful, you might want to blend the ice first, then add the other ingredients.
- Adjust the amount of ice based on how thick you like your shake. More ice will create a thicker consistency!
Enjoy your shake right after making it for the best flavor and freshness!
How to Make an Iced Coffee Protein Shake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup ice cubes
- 1 tablespoon sweetener (e.g., honey, maple syrup, or sugar), optional
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
- Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Iced Coffee Protein Shake takes about 5 minutes to prepare. You will spend a couple of minutes brewing your coffee and then just a few more mixing everything together. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brew the Coffee:
Start by brewing a cup of your favorite coffee. Once it’s ready, let it cool down to room temperature. If you’re feeling patient, you can even place it in the fridge to chill while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Blend the Ingredients:
Grab your blender and add in the cooled coffee, your chosen protein powder, milk, and ice cubes. If you’d like to sweeten it up, add in your sweetener and a splash of vanilla extract. This step is where you’ll create that creamy shake, so don’t skip anything!
3. Mix It Up:
Blend everything together on high speed until the mixture is smooth and frothy. This should only take about 30 seconds to a minute. If it’s too thick for your liking, feel free to add a little more milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Serve Your Shake:
Once blended, pour the shake into a tall glass or a mason jar to show it off! If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle some cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top for a treat.
5. Enjoy Immediately:
Insert a straw and sip away! This refreshing and energizing protein shake is perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Decaf Coffee for This Shake?
Absolutely! If you prefer to avoid caffeine, using decaf coffee works perfectly. Just make sure to cool it down before blending.
What If I Don’t Have Protein Powder?
No worries! You can substitute protein powder with Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for a protein boost, though the consistency may be a bit thicker. You might want to reduce the amount of ice in this case.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
It’s best to enjoy this shake right after making it, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just note that it might separate, so give it a good shake or stir before consuming.
Can I Make This Shake Vegan?
Yes, for a vegan option, simply use plant-based protein powder and choose a non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Make sure any sweeteners are also vegan!
