Protein Cold Foam: The Latest Coffee Trend
The latest coffee trend is here: Protein Cold Foam. This velvety version of whipped cream is sweet, creamy, and perfect for iced coffees or cold brews. With cafes now adding protein powder to cold foam, your regular iced coffee just got a nutritious boost. But is protein foam actually good for you? And how can you recreate this café favorite at home? Let’s dive in.
What’s So Special About Protein?
"Protein is essential for everyone—not just gym-goers building muscle," says MyFitnessPal’s Melissa Jaeger, RD, LD. Here’s why (source):
- Builds and repairs muscles: Helps maintain muscle mass, especially during weight loss.
- Provides energy: Serves as a calorie source for daily activities.
- Supports the immune system: Aids in antibody production to fight infections.
- Creates hormones: Critical for bodily functions and communication between organs, tissues, and cells.
- Regulates fluid balance: Helps maintain proper body fluid levels.
The Importance of a High-Protein Breakfast
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and a high-protein breakfast can further enhance muscle and weight health by: (source)
- Supporting muscle maintenance
- Boosting energy expenditure
- Increasing satiety (feeling full)
- Regulating glucose levels
In short, a protein-rich breakfast keeps you fuller longer and contributes to overall energy balance throughout the day.
Protein Cold Foam Nutrition Facts
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight (or 0.36 grams per pound) (source). However, MyFitnessPal’s Joanna Gregg, MS, RD, notes that this is the minimum amount needed for bodily functions—your ideal intake may be higher based on your goals.
"Aim for 20 to 30 grams of protein per meal and 10 to 15 grams per snack," Gregg suggests. Some café protein cold foams contain up to 15 grams of protein (source), while the homemade recipe below provides 18.5 grams per serving—making it a great way to sneak in extra protein.
Homemade Protein Cold Foam Recipe
Serves 1
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based, ~15g protein per scoop)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Pinch of sea salt
- Ice-cold brew or iced coffee, for serving
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (optional, for a thicker foam)
Instructions:
- Add milk, protein powder, vanilla extract, sweetener, and salt to a blender, handheld frother, or milk frother.
- Blend or froth for 30-60 seconds until light, creamy, and airy.
- Fill a glass with cold brew or iced coffee.
- Top with the vanilla cold foam.
- Stir or sip as-is for a classic, creamy coffee experience.
Nutrition (per serving): 128 calories, 1.7g fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 287mg sodium, 8.5g carbs, 0.3g fiber, 7.6g sugar, 0g added sugars, 18.5g protein
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What protein powder should I use for homemade cold foam?
Jaeger recommends choosing protein powders with NSF or Informed-Sport certifications to ensure ingredient accuracy and product safety.
2. Are there any downsides to mixing caffeine and protein?
Gregg says there’s no current research showing issues with consuming caffeine and protein together.
3. How does protein cold foam compare to other coffee add-ins?
"If your goal is a high-protein, low-carb coffee boost, this homemade protein cold foam is a great choice," says Gregg. While milk and unsweetened alternatives are good, they often contain less protein. Protein cold foam is also a healthier option compared to sugary or artificially sweetened add-ins.
4. Is cold foam healthier than cream?
Made with low-fat milk or milk alternatives, cold foam is generally healthier than cream, which is often high in added sugars and unhealthy fats.
The Bottom Line
Homemade protein cold foam is a tasty and convenient way to boost your protein intake, but it shouldn’t replace whole foods or other protein sources. Think of it as a supplement or protein enhancer—enjoy it in moderation as a delicious way to elevate your daily coffee routine.
This post originally appeared on the MyFitnessPal blog.
