• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
Small Farm Big Life logo
  • Recipe Index
  • Subscribe
  • Resources
  • Home Decor
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Home
  • Recipe Index
  • Subscribe
  • My Story
  • Resources
  • Free Guides
  • Home Decor
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
  • ×

    High Protein Vanilla Iced Espresso

    Modified: Apr 5, 2026 · Published: Mar 2, 2026 by smallfarmbiglife · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Sharing is caring!

    68 shares
    • Share
    • Threads
    Jump to Recipe

    This High Protein Vanilla Iced Espresso has become part of my daily morning routine and I look forward to it every single day. It takes about 5 minutes to pull together, it tastes creamy and delicious, and it actually keeps me full well into the morning which is something a regular iced coffee definitely does not do.

    The combination of Nescafe espresso powder, vanilla protein powder, and milk over ice is so simple but so satisfying and I love that I can make it at home for a fraction of what I would spend at a coffee shop.

    a clear hobnail drinking glass of high protein vanilla iced espresso over ice dripping down the side

    I use Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Vanilla Protein Powder in this recipe because it blends beautifully without any chalky texture and the vanilla flavor is natural and not overly sweet.

    If you use a different protein powder the results may vary slightly but the basic formula works with most vanilla protein powders. A shaker bottle, blender, or handheld frother all work great for this recipe.

    Just make sure you do not try to just stir the protein powder in with a spoon or you will end up with clumps. This is a 5 minute recipe that is worth making every single morning.

    If you're looking for more drink recipes try my Iced Chai Tea Latte Concentrate, my Dunkin Copycat Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew, my Dunkin Copycat Brown Sugar Cream Cold Brew or my Coconut Milk Iced Latte.

    You can find all my drink recipes here: Gluten Free Drink Recipes

    a clear hobnail drinking glass of high protein vanilla iced espresso over ice with a pink color change straw
    Jump to:
    • Ingredients
    • Instructions
    • Supplies
    • More Recipes You Might Enjoy
    • High Protein Vanilla Iced Espresso
    • Storage
    • Top Tip
    • Frequently Asked Questions

    Ingredients

    • Nescafe Gold Espresso Powder Blonde, Intense or Decaf
    • Hot Water
    • Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Vanilla Protein Powder
    • Milk of choice
    • Ice
    • Ground Cinnamon
    • Sea Salt

    Instructions

    Dissolve the espresso powder in the hot water.

    In a shaker bottle, blender or using a frother combine the espresso mixture, protein powder, milk and if you're adding them the cinnamon and salt.

    Shake, blend or froth until smooth and creamy.

    Pour over a tall glass of ice.

    If you like you can sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top.

    Supplies


    More Recipes You Might Enjoy

    • Dunkin Copycat Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
    • Iced Chai Tea Latte Concentrate
    • Dunkin Copycat Brown Sugar Cream Cold Brew
    • Coconut Milk Iced Latte

    I get a lot of my ingredients from Thrive Market. Thrive Market has been a game changer for me eating gluten free. They have so many options I can't get at my rural grocery stores! Use this link to get 40% off your first order!

    Print
    clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

    High Protein Vanilla Iced Espresso


    5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    No reviews

    • Author: Elaine VanVleck
    • Total Time: 5 minutes
    • Yield: 1 serving 1x
    • Diet: Gluten Free
    Print Recipe
    Pin Recipe

    Description

    This High Protein Vanilla Iced Espresso is the easiest way to start your morning with a boost of protein and caffeine in just 5 minutes with no fancy equipment required. Nescafe espresso powder dissolved in hot water is shaken or blended with vanilla protein powder and your milk of choice and poured over ice for the most creamy and satisfying high protein iced coffee. Naturally gluten free and perfect as a quick breakfast, pre workout drink, or afternoon pick me up that actually keeps you full!


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • 1 tsp Nescafe Gold Espresso Powder Blonde, Intense or Decaf
    • ½ cup Hot Water
    • 1 scoop Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Vanilla Protein Powder
    • 1 cup Milk of choice
    • Ice
    • Optional: dash of Ground Cinnamon & pinch of Sea Salt

    Instructions

    Dissolve the espresso powder in the hot water.

    In a shaker bottle, blender or using a frother combine the espresso mixture, protein powder, milk and if you're adding them the cinnamon and salt.

    Shake, blend or froth until smooth and creamy.

    Pour over a tall glass of ice.

    If you like you can sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top.

    • Prep Time: 5 minutes
    • Cook Time: 0 minutes
    • Category: Drinks
    • Method: Blending
    • Cuisine: American

    Did you make this recipe?

    Tag @smallfarmbiglife on Instagram and hashtag it #smallfarmbiglife

    If you made this High Protein Vanilla Iced Espresso I would love to hear what you thought! Please leave a star rating and a comment below. This is one of my favorite easy morning drink recipes and I hope it becomes part of your routine too!

    Storage

    This high protein vanilla iced espresso is best made fresh and served immediately over ice. If you want to prep ahead you can dissolve the espresso powder in hot water and store it in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you are ready to serve just shake or blend the cold espresso mixture with the protein powder and milk and pour over fresh ice. Do not mix the protein powder ahead of time as it can become gummy and unpleasant in texture when stored.

    Top Tip

    Protein powder can get chalky if just stirred. For the best results use a shaker bottle, blender or frother to get a nice creamy texture.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make this high protein iced coffee without a blender?

    Yes! You don't need any fancy equipment to make this protein iced coffee recipe. Simply shake the espresso and vanilla protein powder together in a shaker bottle until smooth and creamy, then pour over ice. If you don't have a shaker, you can stir well in a tall glass, but shaking helps prevent clumps for the best protein iced coffee texture.

    Can I make this protein coffee dairy free?

    Absolutely. This healthy coffee drink works perfectly with any dairy free milk alternative. Just use your favorite plant based milk to create a creamy protein vanilla latte that fits your dietary needs. It's an easy high protein coffee recipe that can be customized without sacrificing flavor.

    Is protein iced coffee good for breakfast or pre workout?

    Yes, this high protein iced coffee is ideal as a quick breakfast or pre workout coffee. The combination of caffeine and protein makes it a balanced, energizing option that helps keep you full longer. It's also a great afternoon pick me up when you want something satisfying without a heavy meal.

    What protein powder works best in this recipe?

    I use Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Vanilla Protein Powder in this recipe because it blends beautifully and has a natural vanilla flavor that is not overly sweet or artificial tasting. Any vanilla protein powder will work in this recipe but plant based protein powders tend to blend more smoothly in cold drinks than whey based powders in my experience. If your protein powder tends to clump use a blender or shaker bottle rather than a frother for the best results.

    Can I use a different type of espresso or coffee in this recipe?

    Yes! If you have an espresso machine you can use 1 to 2 shots of fresh espresso in place of the espresso powder and hot water. Strong brewed coffee also works well as a substitute. If you prefer a less intense coffee flavor use the blonde espresso powder or reduce the amount of espresso powder slightly. For a decaf version the Nescafe Gold Decaf espresso powder works beautifully and gives you the same creamy result without the caffeine.

    More Gluten Free Recipes

    • Gluten Free Strawberry Muffins
    • Gluten Free High Protein Lemon Blueberry Pancakes
    • Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
    • Gluten Free Creamy Peas and Pasta

    Sharing is caring!

    68 shares
    • Share
    • Threads

    Reader Interactions

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

    Primary Sidebar

    Welcome! I'm Elaine

    I'm so glad you are here! I share easy gluten free recipes from my small farm in Washington.

    Be sure to sign up for my newsletter to stay up to date on all of my new recipes.

    More about me...
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Mail

    Load up on new recipes, exclusive goodies, + more!
    Sign up below to stay up-to-date on news, events, and special deals.
    Thank you for subscribing!

    Easy Meals Recipes

    • Gluten Free Instant Pot Chili Mac and Cheese
    • Gluten Free Taco Casserole
    • Gluten Free Cowboy Baked Beans
    • Gluten Free Walking Taco Casserole
    • Gluten Free Creamy Beef and Mushroom Pasta
    • Gluten Free Instant Pot Chicken & Dumplings
    • Instant Pot Mexican Style Beef and Rice
    • Gluten Free Chicken Parmesan Pasta Casserole
    • Gluten Free One Pot Hamburger Helper Copycat
    • Gluten Free Salisbury Steak with Mushroom Gravy
    • Gluten Free Air Fryer Fajitas
    • Gluten Free Sloppy Joe Casserole

    Footer

    Disclaimer:

    “We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.”

    Footer

    back to top

    About

    • Privacy Policy
    • Shop my Amazon Page
    • Follow me on LTK

    Newsletter

    • Sign Up! for emails and updates

    Contact

    • Contact
    • Media Kit
    • About Me

    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

    I may get commissions for purchases made through links on this site.

    Copyright © 2026 Brunch Pro on the Brunch Pro Theme