Protein Latte

Looking for a way to fuel your day with both caffeine and protein? This homemade protein latte is the perfect blend of bold espresso, creamy oat milk, and a boost of vanilla protein powder to keep you energized and satisfied. Inspired by Dutch Bros’ popular version, this recipe is easy to make at home (just like our Lavender Latte) and can be customized with flavors like chocolate or caramel. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, this latte is a delicious way to start your morning or power through the afternoon!

Let’s go!

Flavor & Taste

I always have trouble with this section, but I’ll do my best as a non-beverage critic. My homemade Dutch Bros-inspired protein latte is a smooth and flavorful blend that brings together the bold richness of espresso with the creamy texture of oat milk.

The vanilla protein powder adds a subtle sweetness and a velvety body, while maple syrup or honey enhances the depth with just the right amount of natural sweetness. A touch of cinnamon and vanilla extract rounds out the flavor, giving it a warm, well-balanced taste that feels like a coffee shop-quality drink with an extra boost of protein. Whether you enjoy it hot or iced, this latte is a satisfying way to fuel your day without sacrificing great flavor.

Benefits of Protein Latte

I have found that my protein latte offers a satisfying and nutritious twist on a traditional latte, making it a great choice for any of you looking to add extra protein to your daily routine without sacrificing the comfort of their favorite coffee drink. Unlike a regular latte, which primarily provides caffeine and dairy (or dairy alternatives), a protein latte incorporates a high-quality protein source—such as protein powder—helping to support muscle recovery, keep you feeling fuller for longer, and provide sustained energy.

This makes it an excellent option for busy mornings, post-workout recovery, or anyone wanting to balance their coffee habit with a more nourishing boost. Additionally, by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey and adding warm spices like cinnamon, a homemade protein latte can be both flavorful and free from the artificial additives often found in store-bought protein drinks. Whether enjoyed hot or iced, this simple upgrade transforms a classic latte into a more functional and health-conscious choice.

Protein Latte | Full Recipe

This recipe uses a double shot of espresso, but you can lower it to a single shot if you prefer. You can purchase vanilla protein powder at any local grocery store, nutrition store, and most online grocers. If you prefer iced, I include a recipe for the Iced Protein Latte below as well. This recipe is even easier than some of our other popular recipes like the Creamy Pistachio Latte that use homemade syrup, so let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• Double shot of Espresso – or ½ cup of extra strong brewed coffee
• 1 cup of Oat Milk
• 1 scoop of Vanilla Protein Powder (choose a smooth-mixing, non-gritty protein)
• 2 tsp maple syrup or honey (adjust based on desired sweetness)
• ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions:

1. Brew the Espresso Shots or brew the ½ cup of extra strong brewed coffee. Add the espresso/coffee to your Chosen Mug.
2. Use a blender or shaker bottle to mix oat milk with protein powder, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Blend or shake until smooth.
3. Heat the protein oat milk mixture by using a steam wand/frother or steam in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the milk is steaming but not boiling, carefully pour it over the espresso/coffee in your Chosen Mug.
5. Stir to mix completely, then enjoy your Protein Latte while it is still hot.

Iced Protein Latte

This iced version is very similar to the Hot Protein Latte from above, but minor changes make a big difference in temperature. I know many of you enjoy iced beverages post workout, and this one is sure to put a pep in your step 🙂

Ingredients:

• Double shot of Espresso (or ½ cup of extra strong coffee), cooled
• 1 cup of Oat Milk
• 1 scoop of Vanilla Protein Powder (choose a smooth-mixing, non-gritty protein)
• 2 tsp maple syrup or honey (adjust based on desired sweetness)
• ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon (optional)
• ¼ tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 cup of Ice

Instructions:

1. Brew your espresso or ½ cup of strong coffee and let it cool in the fridge for a few minutes while you move on to the next step.
2. Use a blender or shaker bottle to mix the oat milk with protein powder, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Blend or shake until smooth.
3. Add the ice to your Chosen Mug or glass. Remove the cooled espresso from the fridge and pour it over the ice.
4. Add the oat milk mixture to your Chosen Mug or Glass, then stir everything together to make sure it is fully mixed! Now you’re ready to enjoy your refreshing Protein Latte.

Try it with our Flax Granola Bars

Our popular Chocolate Chip Granola Bars are also naturally high in protein because they contain both flax and chia seeds. These bars taste great with both the hot and cold versions of the Protein Latte, and they also make a great snack by themselves!

Homemade Protein Latte (Hot or Iced)

This Homemade Protein Latte is delicious energy boost! Made w/ espresso, oat milk, vanilla protein, & maple/honey – perfect for busy mornings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Breakfast, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1 Protein Latte

Equipment

• 1 Espresso Machine – recommended
• 1 Stovetop
• 1 Blender/Shaker – to mix ingredients
• 1 Milk Frother/Steamer – or heat in a small saucepan
• 1 Chosen Mug or Glass

Ingredients

  

• 2 shots Espresso or 1/2 cup of extra strong coffee
• 1 cup Oat Milk
• 1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder – choose a non-gritty protein
• 2 tsp Maple Syrup or Honey – adjust based on desired sweetness
• ½ tsp Ground Cinnamon – optional
• ¼ tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

 

• Brew the Espresso Shots or brew the ½ cup of extra strong brewed coffee. Add the espresso/coffee to your Chosen Mug.
• Use a blender or shaker bottle to mix oat milk with protein powder, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Blend or shake until smooth.
• Heat the protein oat milk mixture by using a steam wand/frother or steam in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Once the milk is steaming but not boiling, carefully pour it over the espresso/coffee in your Chosen Mug.
• Stir to mix completely, then enjoy your Protein Latte while it is still hot.

Keyword Coffee, Espresso, Iced Latte, Latte, Protein, Quick