Chocolate Coffee Protein Shake

Written by
Leah Maroney
A recipe developer and food photographer, Leah Maroney is an ardent home cook and food blogger who has written over 300 recipes for The Spruce Eats.
Learn about The Spruce Eats' Editorial Process
Leah Maroney
Updated 05/20/19
Chocolate coffee shake

The Spruce / Leah Maroney
  • Total: 5 mins
  • Prep: 5 mins
  • Cook: 0 mins
  • Yield: 2 shakes (2 servings)

Two things everyone needs in the morning: coffee and some kind of breakfast! Why not make life easier and combine the two? A cold protein shake mixed with chilled coffee is the perfect summertime breakfast. 

This shake is super easy to whip together and has very minimal ingredients. It's the perfect breakfast wake-me-up drink! It's filling, satisfying, and perfect to take along with you when you are in a rush in the morning. 

It's important to make the coffee on the stronger side so the shake won't taste watered down. You can also add additional sweetness with some chocolate syrup!

Variations

You can replace some or all of the ice with frozen banana for a creamier texture for the smoothie. The frozen banana will also add some sweetness.

You can use chilled espresso too! Or if you are looking for coffee flavor without the buzz, just use decaf coffee.

This recipe makes two coffee shakes, but if you want just one, cut the recipe in half! Whole milk provides a creamier flavor but you can substitute with skim or non-dairy milks like coconut or almond. 

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup strong, chilled coffee
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 2 scoops of chocolate protein powder
  • 2 cups of ice
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup

Steps to Make It

  1. Brew coffee the night before, and chill in the refrigerator overnight.

  2. Add liquid ingredients to the blender first: whole milk, strong coffee, and chocolate syrup, if using.

  3. Add the protein powder and ice to the blender.

  4. Blend the mixture on high until completely blended. 

  5. Pour into glasses and serve with smoothie straws! 

*Important Notes

Make sure to the liquids to the blender before the protein powder. If you add the protein powder to the blender first, it will stick to the bottom of the blender and incorporate poorly.