If you’re a coffee fan, which I assume are if you are reading this, and looking to shake up your morning routine, proffee could be your next obsession. Short for “protein coffee,” this drink mixes coffee with protein for a nutrient boost that’s both tasty and filling. As someone who can’t start the day without a cup, I love proffee’s creamy texture and energy kick. Let’s break down what it is, how to make it, and whether it’s worth the hype.
What Is Proffee and Why’s It Popular?
Proffee combines coffee—espresso or brewed—with a protein shake or powder, often served over ice for a refreshing twist. It skips sugary creamers, letting protein add flavor and nutrition, making it a favorite for fitness fans and busy folks needing a quick breakfast. You can enjoy it hot or cold, depending on your mood.
The drink took off on TikTok around 2021, with millions of views for #proffee videos by now. People share everything from simple iced mixes to frothy latte-style creations. In Spanish-speaking countries, #caféproteico posts on Instagram show gym-goers mixing it with local coffee beans.
Social media buzz claims proffee helps with weight loss and muscle recovery, but these are personal stories, not proven facts. Still, swapping sugar for protein can keep you full longer, cutting down on snack cravings.
How to Make Proffee Coffee
Proffee is simple to whip up, but picking the right ingredients matters for taste and health. Here’s a clear guide to get you started, whether you’re at home or trying it at a café.
You’ll need:
- 1–2 espresso shots or 6–8 oz brewed coffee
- Protein shake (10–30g protein) or powder (1 scoop)
- Ice (optional)
- Milk or spices like cinnamon (optional)
Steps:
- Brew coffee or pull espresso shots. Let it cool slightly if hot to avoid clumping with protein powder.
- For powder, mix 1 scoop with 4–6 oz water or milk in a shaker for a smooth texture. For shakes, use 6–8 oz of a pre-made drink.
- Pour coffee and protein into a cup over ice for a cold drink, or stir gently for hot. Blend or use a frother for a creamy, latte-like finish.
- Sprinkle cinnamon or a drop of vanilla for extra flavor, steering clear of sugary syrups or whipped cream.
- Drink right away to enjoy the fresh taste.
Choose high-quality protein—whey, plant-based, or collagen—with less than 5g sugar per serving. Avoid powders with artificial sweeteners like aspartame or additives that might upset your stomach. Pre-made shakes like those with coffee flavors can save time. Experiment with different coffee strengths to find your perfect balance.
Is Proffee Healthy?
Proffee’s benefits come from coffee and protein, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all superdrink. Coffee packs antioxidants like chlorogenic acid, linked to better brain health and lower risk of Type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s. If you use milk-based shakes, you get calcium for bones. Protein, ranging from 10–30g per serving, supports muscle repair after workouts and keeps you full, which might help with weight loss by curbing overeating.
Adults need about 0.8g protein per kg body weight daily (around 54g for a 150-lb person), but active folks may need 1.6–2.2g/kg. Proffee helps hit that target, especially if you skip breakfast. Post-exercise, protein within two hours aids muscle recovery, making proffee a handy choice after a gym session. But drinking too much protein (over 35g per meal) won’t build extra muscle and might stress kidneys in some people.
Watch out for downsides. Too much caffeine (over 400mg daily, or about 4 cups) can cause jitters or sleep issues. Low-quality protein powders with sugars or additives like erythritol can lead to bloating. Proffee shouldn’t replace whole meals—it lacks the fiber and vitamins found in foods like eggs or fruit. Stick to one serving a day and pair it with a balanced diet for the best results.
Table: Proffee vs. Regular Coffee
| Feature | Proffee Coffee | Regular Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Content | 10–30g | 0g |
| Calories | 100–200 (varies) | 2–50 (with creamer) |
| Sugar | 0–5g (if low-sugar) | 0–10g (with syrups) |
| Benefits | Muscle repair, fullness | Energy, antioxidants |
| Best For | Pre/post-workout | Quick energy boost |
This table shows how proffee stacks up against regular coffee, highlighting its nutritional perks.
Final Thoughts
Proffee coffee is a smart way to blend caffeine’s buzz with protein’s staying power. It’s perfect for morning workouts or skipping breakfast, but it’s not a miracle drink. Pick low-sugar protein, avoid syrups, and keep caffeine in check to make it work for you. Whether you’re mixing a quick iced proffee or frothing a hot one, play with recipes to find your favorite. Give it a try next time you brew and see if it’s a keeper in your coffee lineup.