Introduction

Hey there, kitchen bestie! Do you ever get that craving for something rich, satisfying, and packed with energy, but you’re short on time? I know I do! This Coffee Protein Shake recipe is an absolute lifesaver for those mornings when you need to hit the ground running or when you just need a delicious pick-me-up in the afternoon. It’s so incredibly simple, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Seriously, it tastes like a decadent coffee treat, but it’s fueling you up for the day. It’s become my go-to, and I just know you’re going to love it as much as I do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lightning Fast: Ready in under 5 minutes, perfect for busy mornings!
Super Easy: Just toss everything in and blend – no fancy techniques needed.
Perfectly Giftable (for yourself!): Treat yourself or a friend to a healthy indulgence.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Even picky eaters love this delightful coffee taste.
Energizing & Satisfying: Keeps you feeling full and focused for hours.

Ingredients

Gathering your ingredients is the easiest part of this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

4 ounces Plain Greek Yogurt: This is our secret weapon for creaminess and a protein punch! It adds a lovely tanginess too.
4 to 6 ounces Milk (plain or vanilla): Your choice! Dairy or non-dairy milk works beautifully. Vanilla adds a hint of sweetness, but plain is great if you want to control the sweetness yourself.
1 teaspoon Espresso Powder (or instant coffee, or cold brew concentrate): This is where the magic happens! Espresso powder gives the most intense coffee flavor, but good old instant coffee or a splash of cold brew concentrate works wonders too.
1 teaspoon Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Optional): If you’re a chocolate lover like me, this is a MUST. It deepens the flavor and makes it feel extra decadent.
1 Small Banana, cut into small pieces and frozen: Frozen banana is key for that thick, milkshake-like consistency. Plus, it adds natural sweetness!
2 tablespoons Protein Powder (1 scoop): Use your favorite! Vanilla or chocolate protein powder works well here. Make sure it’s about a scoop’s worth, which is usually around 2 tablespoons.

How to Make It

Alright, let’s get blending! This is where the fun really begins.

Load up your blender: Start by adding the Greek yogurt and milk to your blender. This helps the blades move more freely.
Add the flavor boosters: Next, toss in your espresso powder (or coffee of choice) and the optional cocoa powder.
Bring on the freeze: Add your frozen banana pieces.
Protein power! Finally, scoop in your protein powder.
Blend until smooth and creamy: Secure the lid and blend on high speed until everything is completely smooth and beautifully creamy. If it’s too thick, you can add a tiny splash more milk and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a few more frozen banana pieces or a couple of ice cubes.

And voilà! You’ve got a delicious, energizing shake ready to enjoy in just minutes.

Substitutions & Additions

Feeling creative? I love to switch things up! Here are some ideas:

For a sweeter treat: Add a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a date before blending.
Boost the nutrition: Toss in a handful of spinach (you won’t taste it, I promise!) or a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds.
Add some healthy fats: A tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter is delicious and keeps you feeling fuller longer.
Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a wonderful warmth.
Different Coffee: If you don’t have espresso powder, strong brewed coffee that has been chilled will work, just start with less and add more if needed for desired flavor.

Tips for Success

A few little tricks can make this shake even better!

Frozen Banana is Key: Seriously, don’t skip freezing your banana! It makes all the difference in achieving that thick, frosty texture. Peel and slice your bananas before freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
Adjust Liquid Slowly: Start with the lower amount of milk and add more if needed. It’s easier to thin a shake than to thicken it!
Clean Your Blender Right Away: Trust me on this one. Rinse your blender immediately after pouring your shake. It makes cleanup a breeze and prevents any sticky residue.
Prep Ahead: Portion out your dry ingredients (protein powder, espresso powder, cocoa powder) into individual bags or containers. In the morning, just dump the contents into the blender with the yogurt, milk, and frozen banana!

How to Store It

This Coffee Protein Shake is best enjoyed immediately after blending for the freshest taste and perfect texture. However, if you find yourself with a little leftover, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good shake or a quick re-blend before drinking, as it might separate a bit.

FAQs

Can I make this without protein powder?

Yes, you can! It will still be a delicious coffee yogurt drink, but it won’t have the added protein boost. You might want to add a little more Greek yogurt or a tablespoon of nut butter to make it more substantial.

Is this too sweet?

The sweetness comes primarily from the banana. If you prefer it less sweet, use a smaller banana or omit it. You can also use unsweetened milk and skip any added sweeteners.

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso powder?

Absolutely! Brew a strong cup of coffee, let it cool completely, and use about 1/4 cup. You can also use a shot or two of chilled espresso. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.

What kind of milk is best?

Any milk you like will work! Almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or dairy milk are all great options. Vanilla-flavored milk will add a touch more sweetness and flavor.

The Ultimate Coffee Protein Shake

A quick, creamy, and energizing coffee protein shake perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up. It tastes like a decadent coffee treat while providing a healthy boost.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Servings 1

Equipment

Blender

Ingredients

Main ingredients

4 ounces Plain Greek Yogurt
4 to 6 ounces Milk (plain or vanilla) Dairy or non-dairy milk works beautifully.
1 teaspoon Espresso Powder or instant coffee, or cold brew concentrate
1 teaspoon Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Optional
1 small Banana, cut into small pieces and frozen key for thick, milkshake-like consistency and natural sweetness
2 tablespoons Protein Powder 1 scoop. Vanilla or chocolate protein powder works well.

Instructions

Load up your blender: Start by adding the Greek yogurt and milk to your blender. This helps the blades move more freely.
Add the flavor boosters: Next, toss in your espresso powder (or coffee of choice) and the optional cocoa powder.
Bring on the freeze: Add your frozen banana pieces.
Protein power!: Finally, scoop in your protein powder.
Blend until smooth and creamy: Secure the lid and blend on high speed until everything is completely smooth and beautifully creamy. If it’s too thick, you can add a tiny splash more milk and blend again. If it’s too thin, add a few more frozen banana pieces or a couple of ice cubes.

Notes

For a sweeter treat, add honey, maple syrup, or a date. Boost nutrition with spinach, chia seeds, or flax seeds. Add almond butter or peanut butter for healthy fats. Spice it up with cinnamon or nutmeg. Use strong brewed coffee if espresso powder is unavailable.