If you love the cozy, warming flavors of chai but still need your coffee fix, this Chai Spice Protein Coffee is your new go-to! It’s creamy, lightly spiced, and gives you the energy boost you need, plus a dose of protein to keep you fueled.
Perfect for mornings when you want something special or an afternoon pick-me-up that feels like a treat. It’s easy, delicious, and totally customizable.
Let’s make it!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brewed coffee (hot or cold)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Ice cubes (optional, for iced coffee)
- Cinnamon stick or star anise (optional, for garnish)
Tools:
- Blender or shaker bottle
- Measuring spoons
- Mug or glass
- Spoon or straw
Pro Tips
- Adjust the spice. If you love extra chai flavor, add a little more cinnamon or cardamom to your mix.
- Use cold brew for iced coffee. It’s smoother and works perfectly with the chai spices.
- Blend it for creaminess. A quick blend makes it super frothy and smooth.
- Make a chai spice mix. Combine cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg in a small jar so you have it ready to go next time!
- Don’t overheat your milk. If using hot coffee, warm the almond milk gently for the best creamy texture.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap almond milk for oat, soy, or coconut milk for a different flavor.
- Use chai tea instead of coffee for a caffeine-free option.
- Add a pinch of black pepper for a more traditional chai kick.
- If you’re feeling fancy, top it with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.
How to make it
1. Brew the Coffee
Brew 1 cup of your favorite coffee—hot or cold, depending on how you want your drink.
2. Mix the Chai Spices
In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg.
3. Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or shaker bottle, combine the brewed coffee, protein powder, almond milk, chai spice mix, and maple syrup. Blend or shake until smooth and frothy.
4. Pour and Garnish
Pour the drink into your mug or glass. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a cinnamon stick or star anise for an extra-cozy look.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Stir, sip, and enjoy the warm, spiced goodness!
Leftovers and Storage
This drink is best made fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before drinking.
Conclusion
This Chai Spice Protein Coffee is the perfect blend of cozy and energizing. It’s like a hug in a mug that also gives you a boost of protein to fuel your day. Whether you’re enjoying it hot or iced, it’s so easy to make and tastes amazing. I hope you love it as much as I do! Let me know how it turned out—or if you added your own twist—in the comments below. Happy sipping!