For so many of us, coffee is what gets us out of bed in the morning. That sweet-smelling, energy-giving liquid enables us to conquer the world. But if you want your morning coffee habit to be even more beneficial, we have a suggestion for you—add protein!
Protein is a powerhouse macronutrient. It fills you up, helps build muscles, and assists in cell repair and creation. It’s important to get a good amount of protein at the beginning of the day to kickstart your metabolism and keep your body well-fueled, and protein powder is an easy, tasty solution.
Here are eight ways you can get your java and protein fix in one. Mornings, prepare to be transformed.
Related: How Much Protein Do You Really Need?
Cafe Mocha Protein Shake
Go for some chocolate-y goodness with this mix of cold coffee, almond milk, and plnt’s chocolate protein powder to create a drink that will certainly keep you going until lunch. Check out this recipe from food and fitness blogger Jennifer Meyering.
Vanilla Swappuccino Protein Shake
Love Frappucinos, but trying to steer clear of all that sugar? Make a healthier version at home by mixing up Hungry Girl’s Vanilla Swappuccino Protein Shake. Use BodyTech’s French Vanilla Whey Protein Powder for a whopping 17 grams of protein in one serving.
Energy Bites
You don’t need to drink your protein to get the coffee-flavored taste you want in the morning—make energy bites with coffee-flavored protein powder, instead! Garden of Life’s Organic Plant Protein in Smooth Coffee is a delicious way to add a kick to Ambitious Kitchen’s to-die-for peanut butter energy bites.
Ready-to-Drink Coffee with Protein
Pressed for time? Skip all the mixing and blending and pick up Orgain’s Organic Coldbrew+Protein, a prepared version of iced coffee. 10 grams of protein will fill you up on the go.
Espresso Protein Smoothie
If you’re paleo (or just trying to get more healthy fats into your life), this espresso protein smoothie from Paleo Power Couple will definitely fit the bill. It’s delicious, too, with a big serving of coconut milk and two full shots of espresso (yes, please). With the paleo power of Ancient Nutrition’s Bone Broth Protein in Coffee flavor, you’ll feel super-energized.
Related: Shop plant protein and get your mornings started.
Coffee Protein Pumpkin Brownies
Brownies for breakfast? Why the heck not? With fiber from pumpkins, caffeine from coffee, and protein from a powder like BodyTech’s Vanilla Whey Protein, these brownies have a lot more nutritional value than the ones you’re used to.
Vanilla Cappuccino Protein Pudding
If you’re vegan (or even if you’re not), you will love this decadent pudding from One Green Planet. Make it with plnt’s Vanilla Pea Protein powder for extra plant-powered benefits.
Iced Mocha Green Monster Smoothie
It doesn’t seem like coffee would be a good combination with greens, but Oh She Glows has created a crazy-delicious spin on a green smoothie, adding coffee for taste and effect. You won’t even taste the spinach! Add plnt protein in chocolate to up the chocolate-y goodness factor.
Related: Shop whey protein from all of the best brands.