How to Reach Your Protein Goals with Protein Coffee

Protein coffee is a simple way to hit your daily protein goals while enjoying your favorite brew. Instead of adding another shake or snack, you can blend protein right into your morning cup. Coffee and protein together help to support energy, focus and muscle without extra steps.

You might want to support muscle maintenance, stay full between meals or get more protein into a busy day. Protein coffee makes that easier. It’s a practical solution that tastes great and fits into your routine. Keep reading to learn the benefits, protein coffee recipes and the best protein powder for coffee.

What Is Protein Coffee?

Protein coffee is exactly what it sounds like—coffee combined with a source of protein, usually in the form of protein powder. Mixing protein powder in coffee gives you the familiar energy boost from caffeine, plus the nutritional support of protein in one easy drink.

Adding protein to your coffee can support muscle recovery^[1] and satiety^[2] on top of energy from caffeine. It’s a great option if you want to get more out of your morning cup or fill a protein gap in your day.

You can make protein coffee hot or cold, depending on your preference. It works well in blended drinks, simple lattes or even as a quick coffee protein shake.

Why Should You Add Protein to Coffee?

Adding protein to your coffee helps you support your health goals in a simple and effective way.

Protein coffee can support muscle recovery after a workout by helping your body rebuild and maintain muscle.^[3] It also helps you feel full longer^[4], which may make it easier to skip mindless snacking throughout the day. Protein takes more energy to digest than carbs, so it can also support your metabolism.^[5]

If you have a busy schedule or don’t eat early in the day, protein coffee gives you an easy way to get more nutrients without adding another meal. It helps you stay full and focused when you don’t have time to sit down for breakfast.

To get the most out of protein coffee, it helps to know how much protein your body actually needs each day. Read on to learn your optimal protein range.

How Much Protein Do You Need in a Day?

The amount of protein you need each day depends on your age, activity level and health goals. For most healthy adults, the Recommended Dietary Allowance is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. That’s about 55 grams per day for a 150-pound person. Use this online protein calculator to find the amount that’s right for you.

However, if you’re active or trying to support muscle maintenance, you may need more. Research suggests that 1.2 to 2.0 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight can better support muscle recovery and strength in active adults.^[6]

Getting enough protein each day is a key part of daily wellness—and protein coffee makes it easy to meet your goals. If you already drink coffee, adding protein is a seamless addition that can make a big difference in your day.

How to Make Protein Coffee

Making basic protein coffee is quick and easy. You just need your favorite coffee and a good-quality protein powder for coffee that mixes well.

Start with brewed hot or cold coffee. Then stir or blend in a scoop of protein powder until it’s fully dissolved. Collagen blends well with a spoon, but whey or plant-based powders may need a blender for a smoother texture.

You can also add extras like MCT oil, ghee, nut milk or spices to boost flavor and function. If you’re using a flavored protein powder, it can double as your creamer—no sugar or syrup needed.

Try different combinations to see what works best for your taste and routine. Once you get in the habit of making protein coffee, it becomes an easy way to support your daily goals. Need some inspiration? These simple recipes show how easy (and delicious) protein coffee can be.

Hot Protein Coffee Recipes to Try

The Super Cup

Start your day with clean, enhanced coffee boosted by Brain Octane C8 MCT Oil and Collagen Peptides. The High Achiever™ coffee delivers energy and focus with added B Vitamins, Lion’s Mane and Coffeeberry®, for brain support.

Bulletproof Golden Latte

Known as liquid gold, this decaf golden latte calms your stomach and supports sleep. Collagen helps your muscles, joints and skin overnight, making it a great choice before bed.^[7]

Salted Caramel Oat Milk Protein Latte

Enjoy a cozy blend of strong coffee, collagen, ghee, caramel syrup and steamed oat milk. This creamy latte supports muscles and adds a touch of sea salt for flavor.

Iced Coffee Recipes to Try

Iced Nutty Almond

Hazelnut creamer, vanilla and almond flavor create a toasty, nutty iced coffee. This sweet midday treat keeps you full and energized without feeling heavy, while collagen adds support for your skincare routine.

Keto Iced Coffee Protein Shake

Treat yourself to a creamy, frozen coffee shake packed with protein, quality fats and fiber. Cold brew coffee cubes and avocado make it extra smooth. Freeze the ingredients beforehand for the best blend and good morning energy without sugar.

Iced Protein Caramel Macchiato

This refreshing iced drink mixes bold coffee, whey protein, caramel and vanilla to support muscle and boost energy. You can add collagen for a lighter protein option.

Best Protein Powders for Coffee

Not all protein powders for coffee mix the same. Choosing the right one can help you get a smooth texture, better taste and more health benefits in every cup.

Collagen protein is one of the best options. It dissolves easily in hot or cold liquids and has a neutral taste. You can also find it in flavored varieties like vanilla or chocolate, which can enhance your coffee without adding sugar. Collagen helps support joints, skin and muscles, making it a great everyday choice.^[8]

Whey protein is another popular option, especially if you’re looking to support muscle recovery after workouts.^[9] Just make sure to blend it or mix it well, since it can clump in hot liquids.

Plant-based protein powders can also work, but they often have a stronger taste and grainier texture. These are best for blended drinks like a coffee protein shake where flavor and texture are easier to control.

When choosing a protein powder for coffee, look for clean ingredients, no added sugar and a protein source that fits your needs and preferences.

Life moves fast, and it’s easy to skip or forget breakfast when your day gets packed. But you probably won’t forget your morning coffee. That’s what makes protein coffee such a smart option—it turns something you already enjoy into a simple way to support your daily nutrition. By adding protein to your cup, you help fuel your body, stay full longer and make your coffee work harder for you.