Why You’ll Love This Coffee Smoothie Recipe (with Protein!)
This coffee smoothie is the perfect way to start your morning. It combines your favorite coffee with protein and tastes like a milkshake, but it is way better for you. I love how simple it is. You blend everything together, and in under five minutes you have a creamy, energizing breakfast. The rich coffee flavor shines through, and the frozen banana makes it thick and luscious. Plus, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. If you are looking for an easy breakfast that keeps you full, this recipe is for you. For more morning inspiration, check out my Coffee Smoothie Recipe.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Coffee Smoothie Recipe (with Protein!)
- Coffee Protein Shake Recipe Ingredients
- What’s the Best Coffee for a Smoothie?
- How to Make a Coffee Banana Smoothie
- Coffee Protein Shake Recipe Variations
- Tips For Making The Perfect Protein Coffee Shake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make a coffee smoothie at home?
- What type of coffee works best for coffee smoothies?
- Is a coffee smoothie a healthy breakfast option?
- How can I make a coffee smoothie without banana?
- What protein powder is best for coffee smoothies?
- How do I thicken a coffee smoothie?
- How to Enjoy Your Protein Coffee Shake
- Coffee Smoothie
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Last Step:
- Notes
- Nutrition
- Did you make this recipe?
Coffee Protein Shake Recipe Ingredients
Here is what you will need to make this creamy coffee protein shake. Each ingredient plays an important role in the final taste and texture.
- 1/4 cup strong coffee or cold brew (use leftover cold coffee, cold brew concentrate, or cooled espresso)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (plain or vanilla; you can substitute with coconut, oat, or cashew milk)
- 1 scoop unflavored whey protein powder (other protein powders also work)
- 1 frozen banana (this is essential for creaminess; do not use a fresh banana)
- 2 tablespoons almond butter (or substitute with cashew or peanut butter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, use plant based milk and skip any honey. See the variations section for more ideas.
What’s the Best Coffee for a Smoothie?
The type of coffee you choose can change the flavor of your smoothie. Here are the top options:
- Leftover cold coffee: Brew extra coffee the night before and store it in the fridge. It is convenient and works well.
- Cold brew concentrate: This gives the richest, smoothest coffee flavor without bitterness.
- Frozen coffee cubes: Pour leftover coffee into an ice cube tray and freeze. They add chill and texture without watering down the smoothie.
- Espresso shots: Use one or two shots, but let them cool to room temperature before blending.
For the strongest coffee taste, cold brew concentrate is your best bet. You can also combine options, like using cold brew plus frozen coffee cubes.
How to Make a Coffee Banana Smoothie
Making this smoothie is quick and simple. Just follow these steps:

- Add liquids first. Pour the coffee and almond milk into your blender. This helps the blades move easily and prevents clumping.
- Add the rest of the ingredients. Add the protein powder, frozen banana, almond butter, and vanilla extract.
- Blend until smooth. Start the blender on low speed, then gradually increase to high. Blend for 30 to 45 seconds, or until the mixture is completely smooth. If it is too thick, add a splash more almond milk. If it is too thin, add a few frozen coffee cubes or more frozen banana.
Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately. For another healthy breakfast idea, try my Super Healthy Morning Smoothies.
Coffee Protein Shake Recipe Variations
This recipe is endlessly customizable. Try one of these variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

- Sweeten it: Add 1 to 2 teaspoons of maple syrup or honey if you like a sweeter smoothie.
- Switch the milk: Use coconut milk, oat milk, or cashew milk instead of almond milk.
- Change the nut butter: Cashew butter or peanut butter work beautifully in place of almond butter.
- Make it a mocha: Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolate coffee twist.
- Add spices: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for warmth and depth.
For a vegan version, use a plant based protein powder and a dairy free milk. You can also find inspiration from this creamy coffee smoothie from Minimalist Baker.
Tips For Making The Perfect Protein Coffee Shake
These tips will help you get the best results every time.
- Always add liquid first. This prevents ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the blender and ensures even blending.
- Start the blender on low. Gradually increase the speed to high. This reduces strain on the motor and creates a smoother texture.
- Use a frozen banana. A frozen banana is the key to a thick, creamy shake. Fresh banana will make it watery.
- Do not add ice. The frozen banana provides enough chill and thickness. Ice will dilute the coffee flavor.
- Use a high powered blender. If you have one, it will blend the frozen banana and nut butter more smoothly.
One more tip: For the creamiest texture, use frozen coffee cubes instead of regular ice. You get extra coffee flavor without watering down your drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a coffee smoothie at home?
What type of coffee works best for coffee smoothies?
Is a coffee smoothie a healthy breakfast option?
How can I make a coffee smoothie without banana?
What protein powder is best for coffee smoothies?
How do I thicken a coffee smoothie?
How to Enjoy Your Protein Coffee Shake
This smoothie is wonderful on its own, but you can boost its nutritional value with optional add ins. These ingredients add extra protein, fiber, and healthy fats without changing the taste much.

- Collagen powder: Add 1 scoop for extra protein that dissolves easily.
- Ground flax seeds: Add 1/2 tablespoon for fiber and omega 3s.
- Chia seeds: Use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon. Drink immediately, as chia seeds will thicken the smoothie over time.
- Hemp seeds: Add 1/2 tablespoon for a nutty flavor and extra nutrition.
- Old fashioned oats: Add 1/4 cup for more fiber and a heartier texture. Blend well to avoid grittiness.
You can also pour the smoothie into a bowl and top it with granola, sliced almonds, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a satisfying breakfast bowl. Enjoy your delicious, protein packed start to the day!
Print
Coffee Smoothie
☕ Creamy coffee protein shake that tastes like a milkshake but fuels your morning with lasting energy.
⚡ Ready in under five minutes with simple ingredients for a satisfying breakfast on the go.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 smoothie 1x
Ingredients
1/4 cup strong coffee or cold brew
1/2 cup almond milk
1 scoop unflavored whey protein powder
1 frozen banana
2 tablespoons almond butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1-Add liquids first: Pour coffee and almond milk into the blender to help blades move easily.
2-Add the rest of ingredients: Add protein powder, frozen banana, almond butter, and vanilla extract.
3-Blend until smooth: Start on low speed, increase to high, and blend for 30-45 seconds until smooth. Adjust with more almond milk if too thick, or frozen coffee cubes/banana if too thin. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
💡 Always pour liquids into the blender first to prevent ingredients from sticking and ensure even blending.
🍌 Use a frozen banana for a thick, creamy texture — a fresh banana will make the smoothie watery.
🧊 Skip regular ice and use frozen coffee cubes instead to boost flavor without diluting the drink.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Drinks
- Method: Blender
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 smoothie
- Calories: 445
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 135mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 40mg






