Proffee

Proffee is a functional beverage that has gained significant popularity, particularly among fitness enthusiasts and those with active lifestyles. It serves as a convenient two-in-one solution, providing the caffeine kick from coffee and the muscle-repairing benefits of protein. It can be prepared hot or cold and customized with various flavors of protein powder and milks, making it a versatile option for a quick breakfast or a recovery drink.
Proffee

Preparation

Preparation time: 3 minutes

Preparation time
Difficulty

Drink Classification

Proffee is primarily classified as a modern coffee drink, reflecting its recent emergence as a popular beverage. It also falls into the health and fitness drink categories due to its high protein content, which is intended to support muscle recovery and satiety.

Serving

Proffee is a non-alcoholic drink best served cold in a tall glass over ice. It is a moderately sized beverage, perfect for a single serving.
Serving size
Approximately 300 ml / 10 oz
Alcohol content
0% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Tall glass
Glass treatment
None

Backstory

Proffee does not have a long historical backstory but is a product of modern wellness culture. It emerged as a trend on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram around the early 2020s. Health and fitness influencers popularized the simple recipe as an easy way to increase daily protein intake while enjoying their daily coffee.
Origin
The concept of Proffee originated in online fitness and wellness communities, primarily in the United States, in the late 2010s and early 2020s. Its rapid rise in popularity is a testament to social media's power in creating and spreading food and drink trends.

Proffee

The name "Proffee" is a portmanteau, a blend of the words "protein" and "coffee," which accurately describes its two main components. It is also commonly known simply as Protein Coffee, especially in fitness and wellness communities.
Original name
Proffee
Alternative name
Protein Coffee

Characteristics overview

Proffee has a dominant coffee aroma and flavor, balanced by the sweetness and creaminess from the protein powder and milk. Its texture is smooth and opaque, making for a refreshing and substantial drink suitable for any season.
Flavor
Coffee, sweet, creamy, vanilla, chocolate
Aroma
Roasted coffee, sweet, vanilla
Taste balance
Sweet, bitter
Aftertaste
Lingering coffee, creamy
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Opaque, light brown, creamy
Texture
Smooth, creamy, slightly thick
Seasonality
Refreshing, year-round

Flavor intensity & Experience

The flavor profile is defined by a moderate sweetness and a light bitterness from the coffee, with a high degree of creaminess. This is a completely non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, and non-spicy beverage.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation

Ingredients

You'll need chilled coffee, your favorite protein powder, and milk or a milk alternative. Ice is essential for the cold version, and a sweetener can be added if desired.
  • Chilled Brewed Coffee or Espresso120 ml / 4 oz
    Two shots of espresso or strongly brewed coffee work best.
  • Protein Powder1 scoop (approximately 30 grams)
    Vanilla or chocolate whey protein is common, but plant-based options work too.
  • Milk180 ml / 6 oz
    Cow's milk, almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be used.
  • Ice Cubes1 cup
    To chill the drink.
  • Sweetener1-2 teaspoons, to taste(optional)
    Maple syrup, stevia, or agave nectar. Most protein powders are already sweetened.

Ice type

  • Cubed

Mixing equipments

A blender is ideal for a perfectly smooth texture, but a shaker bottle is a convenient and quick alternative for mixing the coffee and protein powder.
  • Blender or Shaker Bottle for mixing the ingredients until smooth.

Instructions

The process is straightforward: simply blend or shake chilled coffee with protein powder and milk until smooth, then pour over ice. It's a quick and easy recipe that takes only a few minutes to prepare.
1. Prepare your coffee (2 espresso shots or 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee) and allow it to cool down completely in the refrigerator.
2. In a blender or shaker bottle, combine the chilled coffee, milk, one scoop of protein powder, and optional sweetener.
3. Secure the lid and blend or shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds, until the protein powder is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth and frothy.
4. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes.
5. Pour the proffee mixture from the blender or shaker over the ice in the glass.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your protein-packed coffee.

Garnishing

Proffee is a functional drink that doesn't require a garnish. However, a light sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top can add a touch of flavor and visual appeal.
  • None. As a functional drink, it is typically not garnished.

Dietary Information

This drink contains caffeine and is typically made with dairy and may contain soy. However, it can easily be adapted to be dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan by using plant-based protein powders and milk alternatives.
✕ Contains alcohol
✕ Caffeine-free
✕ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✕ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✓ Gluten-free
✕ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly

Nutrition information

This drink is moderately caloric and relatively low in carbohydrates and sugar, though the exact values depend heavily on the type of protein powder and milk used. Its main nutritional benefit is its high protein content.
Calories
Averagely 150-250 kcal / 627-1046 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 5-15 g
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 2-10 g
Sugar level

Occasions

This drink is ideal as a quick, protein-packed breakfast, a recovery beverage after a workout, or a satiating afternoon pick-me-up to curb cravings and boost energy levels.
  • Breakfast
  • Post-workout
  • Afternoon pick-me-up

Pairing suggestions

Proffee is often consumed on its own as a light meal or snack. If desired, it pairs well with light, energy-boosting foods like fruit, rice cakes, or a small portion of oatmeal for a more complete breakfast.
  • A piece of fruit, like a banana or apple
  • Rice cakes with peanut butter
  • A small bowl of oatmeal or granola

Proffee: The Ultimate Fusion of Fitness and Coffee

Proffee is the ultimate functional beverage for the health-conscious coffee lover. It cleverly combines the energizing effects of caffeine with the muscle-building and satiating properties of protein. Incredibly easy and quick to make, this drink can be customized to fit various dietary needs and flavor preferences. Whether as a breakfast replacement, a post-workout recovery aid, or a midday energy boost, Proffee offers a delicious and practical way to fuel your body.

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