If you’re short on time but need something super satisfying, this Banana Protein Coffee Smoothie is a total go-to.
It’s creamy, naturally sweet, and packed with that coffee kick to get your day going.
I make this when I want something quick, filling, and energizing—especially after a workout or during a busy morning.
It’s like a breakfast, snack, and coffee all rolled into one icy-cold, drinkable treat.
Why I Love This Recipe
This one came to life during a hectic morning where I needed breakfast and caffeine at the same time. I threw a few things in the blender—and boom. Instant favorite. It’s become a regular in my rotation because:
- You get protein, potassium, and caffeine all at once
- It takes 5 minutes, max
- You only need one blender—less mess
- You can drink it on the go
- It actually tastes like a treat
What You’ll Need
- 1 frozen banana
- ¾ cup brewed chilled coffee
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup ice
Servings and Time
Servings: 1 large smoothie
Time: 5 minutes
Tools Required
- Blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Tall round glass for serving
Pro Tips
- Freeze bananas ahead of time in chunks—they blend smoother
- Brew your coffee the night before and chill it for best flavor
- Use creamy peanut butter for better texture
- Blend the protein powder with liquid first if yours tends to clump
- Add more ice for a thicker texture or less if you like it thinner
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap almond milk for oat, dairy, or soy milk
- Use chocolate protein powder for a mocha version
- Almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter
- Add a pinch of salt to boost flavor
- Throw in a few oats for extra fiber
Make Ahead Tips
You can pre-measure everything into a freezer-safe bag (except the coffee and almond milk), then dump it into the blender when you’re ready and add liquid.
How to Make Banana Protein Coffee Smoothie
Step 1: Add the frozen banana
Add 1 frozen banana, broken into chunks, into the blender.
Step 2: Pour in chilled coffee and almond milk
Add ¾ cup chilled brewed coffee and ½ cup unsweetened almond milk into the blender over the banana.
Step 3: Add the vanilla protein powder
Add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder on top of the liquid.
Step 4: Add peanut butter and cinnamon
Add 1 tablespoon peanut butter and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon into the blender.
Step 5: Add ice
Add ½ cup ice on top of the rest of the ingredients.
Step 6: Blend until smooth
Blend everything until creamy and smooth, about 30–60 seconds depending on your blender.
Step 7: Pour and serve
Pour into a tall round glass, sprinkle extra cinnamon if you like, and serve with a straw.
Leftovers & Storage
This smoothie is best fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day. Shake well before drinking—ingredients may settle.
Macros (Approximate)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 22g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 14g (from banana and almond milk)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Frozen banana thickens the smoothie without needing cream or yogurt
- Protein powder adds body and makes it filling
- Coffee adds depth and natural bitterness to balance the sweetness
- Peanut butter gives it richness and healthy fats
- Blending ice makes it frothy and refreshing
Common Mistakes
- Using warm coffee: This will melt the banana and give you a watery smoothie
- Skipping the ice: The texture won’t be cold or thick enough
- Too much protein powder: Can make it chalky
- Not freezing banana: You’ll lose the creamy texture
- Overblending: Can make it too runny if your blender heats up
What to Serve With
This smoothie works great with:
- A slice of whole grain toast with almond butter
- A boiled egg for extra protein
- A handful of mixed nuts
- Greek yogurt on the side
FAQ
Can I use instant coffee?
Yes! Just make sure it’s cooled down before blending.
Can I make it the night before?
You can, but it’s best right after blending. It may separate in the fridge.
Is it sweet?
Naturally sweet from banana and protein powder—no added sugar needed.
Can I skip the peanut butter?
Yes, but it adds flavor and fullness. You could swap in Greek yogurt or almond butter.
Final Thoughts
If you love smoothies and love coffee, this Banana Protein Coffee Smoothie is the best of both worlds. It’s simple, satisfying, and comes together in minutes. Give it a try, and let me know how you liked it—or if you added your own twist!
