Coffee Smoothie Recipe for a Creamy Healthy Breakfast

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Ruby Bennett
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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.

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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:

How to Make a Coffee Banana Smoothie
  1. Add liquids first. Pour the coffee and almond milk into your blender. This helps the blades move easily and prevents clumping.
  2. Add the rest of the ingredients. Add the protein powder, frozen banana, almond butter, and vanilla extract.
  3. 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.

Coffee Protein Shake Recipe Variations
  • 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?

Blend one cup of cold brew or cooled strong coffee with half a frozen banana, a scoop of protein powder, half a cup of milk or milk alternative, and ice until smooth. Adjust sweetness to taste.

What type of coffee works best for coffee smoothies?

Cold brew concentrate or strong brewed coffee that has been chilled works best because it adds robust flavor without watering down the smoothie. Avoid instant coffee unless you dissolve it first.

Is a coffee smoothie a healthy breakfast option?

Yes, when made with nutrient dense ingredients like banana, protein powder, and milk, it provides protein, fiber, and caffeine for energy. Keep added sugars low to maintain health benefits.

How can I make a coffee smoothie without banana?

Substitute banana with half an avocado for creaminess, or use a quarter cup of rolled oats and a splash of extra milk. Greek yogurt also works to add thickness and protein.

What protein powder is best for coffee smoothies?

Unflavored or vanilla whey, casein, or plant based protein powders blend well. Chocolate or mocha flavors also complement coffee. Avoid powders with artificial sweeteners that might clash.

How do I thicken a coffee smoothie?

Add a tablespoon of chia seeds, a handful of ice, or a quarter cup of frozen cauliflower rice for extra thickness without changing flavor. Greek yogurt also works.

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.

How to Enjoy Your Protein Coffee Shake
  • 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!

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Coffee Smoothie

Coffee Smoothie

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☕ 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

Scale

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:

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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.

  • Author: Ruby Bennett
  • 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

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