Want to have a protein-rich breakfast on the go? How about adding protein to your morning coffee? Sounds odd, right? You would be surprised to know that protein coffee has actually become a growing trend recently, with over 9.9 million views on TikTok.
Protein is a vital macronutrient for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and promoting satiety. Adding protein to your coffee can provide a delicious and convenient way to meet your daily protein needs, especially if you have a busy lifestyle. In fact, experts note that protein coffee is a low-calorie but filling alternative to the more typical sugary preparation of everyone’s favorite bean juice.
If you are wondering how to add protein to your coffee, luckily, there are several ways to easily do so. Here are 13 ways to add an extra splash of protein to your coffee, featuring a few conventional ways, and a handful of seemingly strange options that might end up being your new favorite way to start the morning.
1. Protein Powder
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This is one of the most obvious choices. You can find different types of protein powders, such as whey, casein, and plant-based protein powders. So, pick one that fits your diet and taste. To mix protein powder into your coffee, add a scoop to your mug and stir well to prevent clumps. You can also use a blender for a smoother texture.
Protein powders come in various flavors and are rich in easy-to-measure protein, making them a convenient option for boosting your intake.
2. Collagen Powder
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Collagen is important for skin, joints, and connective tissues. As we age, the amount of collagen produced by our bodies decreases, leading to signs of aging and joint pain. Collagen also accounts for a third of the total body protein. Taking collagen can improve skin elasticity and hydration, reduce wrinkles, and support joint health.
Adding collagen peptides to coffee is easy and does not change the flavor or texture. Just dissolve one to two scoops in hot coffee, stirring well.
3. Yogurt
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Yogurt is a strong source of protein, making it a good choice for increasing intake. It is also rich in probiotics, which help with digestion and support gut health.
The best way to incorporate yogurt into your morning cup is to blend everything together with frozen bananas into a coffee smoothie. Sweeten it with a touch of maple syrup, and you have yourself a creamy, satisfying caffeine smoothie.
4. Butter
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Butter is added to coffee to make bulletproof coffee, a popular drink among Paleo and Keto communities. It is basically a substitute for breakfast and claims to help maintain energy levels and focus during the day thanks to a large dose of saturated fats (and protein on a smaller scale).
The classic combination of grass-fed butter, coconut oil, and coffee promotes fullness and fat-burning capabilities. The MCTs in coconut oil help the body produce ketones, a fuel source that may aid weight loss.
5. Milk and Milk Substitutes
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High-protein milk options, like cow’s milk and pea protein milk, provide a good amount of protein in coffee. Cow’s milk has 7.7 grams of protein per cup, which makes it a good choice for boosting protein intake. Pea protein milk is dairy-free, high in protein, and ideal for vegans or those with lactose intolerance. Both options help with muscle recovery and create a creamier coffee.
For frothing, whole or 2% cow’s milk works best due to its fat content. For better frothing with plant-based milk, use barista-formulated brands. Heat the milk and fluff it up using a frother. Slowly stir the milk into your coffee to keep the foam, and enjoy a homemade latte.
6. Egg Whites
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Adding egg whites to coffee may sound unusual, but it increases the protein content without affecting the flavor. Egg whites mix easily into hot or cold coffee without curdling. They are low in calories and fat and offer high-quality protein that aids muscle repair and supports heart health.
To add egg whites to your coffee, whisk or blend them until frothy, then gradually stir them into brewed coffee for a smooth texture. For extra flavor, add sugar-free syrup or cinnamon to complement but not overpower the coffee.
7. Cottage Cheese
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Cottage cheese is a great source of protein, offering about 31 grams of protein per cup while being low in fat and calories. Because of this, it’s perfect for boosting protein intake.
To add cottage cheese to your coffee, blend it well for a smooth texture that mixes easily into a smoothie. Plain cottage cheese goes well with vanilla extract and cinnamon for a touch of extra flavor. Throw a frozen banana in the blender and a splash of milk, and you’ll have a surprisingly creamy smoothie to enjoy.
8. Protein-Rich Coffee Creamers
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Protein-rich coffee creamers make it easy to add protein to your coffee while meeting different nutritional needs. They come in various flavors, allowing you to make your coffee more suitable to your preferences. These creamers offer a simple way to enjoy your coffee while increasing your protein intake without making any drastic changes to your routine (I’m looking at you, cottage cheese).
9. Chia Seeds
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Chia seeds contain protein, fiber, omega-3s, calcium, and magnesium. They support digestion and heart health and provide energy throughout the day. To add chia seeds to coffee, soak them in water for a few minutes to form a gel, then blend for a smooth drink.
Experiment with cinnamon or vanilla to enhance the flavor. If you don’t like the consistency of chia seeds, you can opt for chia seed powder instead.
10. Silken Tofu
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Silken tofu is a good plant-based protein, with about 4.8 grams per 100 grams. It contains essential amino acids, is low in calories, and provides iron and calcium, making it a healthy choice. Better yet, it’s silky and easy to blend.
It has a nice creamy flavor and consistency, which makes it perfect for coffee. Blend a small amount with your coffee until smooth, with no lumps. For extra flavor, you can add cocoa powder, cinnamon, or vanilla, depending on what taste you’re in the mood for.
11. Hemp Seeds
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Hemp seeds contain nutrients like fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals. To add them to your coffee, blend the seeds with your brewed coffee in a blender along with a frozen banana and a bit of milk for a smooth and creamy texture.
Their mild, nutty taste pairs wonderfully with coffee. Hemp seeds also offer health benefits like better heart health, increased energy, and muscle recovery. They may reduce inflammation and improve skin health, making them a great addition to your morning.
12. Dried Mushrooms
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Mushroom coffee is much more nutritious than regular coffee, as it combines the nutritional benefits of both mushrooms and coffee. Dried mushrooms are protein-packed fungi, so it might be surprising to learn that they’re a popular ingredient in trendy coffee brands. Companies like Four Sigmatic offer instant coffee infused with mushrooms.
Thanks to their polysaccharide content, mushrooms such as Chaga, reishi, and cordyceps are known for their immune-boosting and stress-reducing benefits, making them a fantastic way to start your day.
13. Peanut Butter
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Peanut butter is a great source of plant-based protein since it’s composed of 25% protein. Just like with toast, peanut butter can be added to coffee to increase your intake of protein. In fact, peanut butter pairs well with coffee, especially when mixed with chocolate for a sweet, mocha-style drink. If you have a peanut allergy, you can use alternatives like soy nut butter or sunflower seed butter instead.