How To Put Protein Powder in Coffee

📌 Overview and Key Takeaways

This is a Dietitian’s recipe for high protein coffee.

Discover how to put protein powder in coffee.

Last Updated
Mar 3, 2026

Author and Medical Reviewer

Written by Jack, Founder

Jack is the Founder of Drink Wholesome.

Medically reviewed by Brittany, MS, RD and Jenn, PA-C

Kayla is a Registered Dietitian with a MS in Nutrition.

Jennifer is a Physician Assistant with a BA in Nutritional Sciences.

High Protein Coffee Recipe

Can I Put Protein Powder in Coffee?

Yes, you can put protein powder in hot or iced coffee!

It is a popular way to make your cup of joe more nutritious.

It is also a convenient way to sneak extra protein into your diet.

That said, adding protein powder to your morning brew is easier said than done.

Here are a few tips for best results:

1. Cool the coffee slightly: Mixing protein powder in a piping hot beverage can cause it to clump. So, let the java cool slightly before adding protein powder, or mix the powder with a small amount of milk or water first.
2. Use a milk frother: A handheld milk frother (electric mixer) can help the protein powder dissolve.
3. Choose the right protein powder: I only recommend collagen or dairy-based protein powders. My top choice is Unflavored Collagen Protein Powder because it dissolves easily and is almost flavorless.

I also recommend starting with a half (or even a quarter) serving of protein powder.

Adding too much protein powder at once can cause clumping.

Why Should I Mix Coffee And Protein Powder?

Making high protein coffee is an easy way to add more protein to your diet, which can have several benefits.

For starters, eating more protein can help with weight management:

• Protein is the most satiating macronutrient, meaning it keeps you feeling full for longer than nutrients like fats and carbs, which can help prevent cravings and overeating (Am J Clin Nutr, 2008).
• Protein increases thermogenesis, or your metabolic rate and energy expenditure (J Am Coll Nutr, 2004).
• Eating protein can help you build muscle, and people with more muscle mass have faster metabolisms (burn more calories) because it takes more energy (calories) to maintain muscle than fat (Nutrients, 2019).

In summary, increasing the percentage of your calories that come from protein can help you achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.

Adding protein powder to coffee can also provide you with energy to fuel your day, start to finish.

Protein itself does not directly provide immediate “energy” the way caffeine or sugar does, but it helps stabilize blood sugar, which in turn prevents energy crashes later in the day.

High protein coffee can also be taken on-the-go, making it a great option for busy mornings when sitting down for breakfast is not an option.

I myself like to drink it on my way to work while I eat my High Protein Overnight Oats.

The convenience is hard to beat and I even like how it tastes.

Once you learn how to mix properly, the right protein powder can add a nice, creamy texture to your coffee.

Happy brewing!

Sources

1. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Am J Clin Nutr). Protein, weight management, and satiety. 2008.
2. Journal of the American College of Nutrition (J Am Coll Nutr). The effects of high protein diets on thermogenesis, satiety and weight loss: a critical review. 2004.
3. Nutrients (Nutrients). Dietary Protein and Muscle Mass: Translating Science to Application and Health Benefit. 2019.

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This article was written by a Registered Dietitian and reviewed by a Physician Assistant. We rely on peer-reviewed research and trusted medical sources, and regularly update our content to ensure accuracy and clarity.