Name: Dutch Bros Protein Coffee
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: Coffee: Your choice, really. Go for a strong brew to match that Dutch Bros vibe. Espresso shots? Sure. A hefty pour-over? Absolutely.; Protein Powder: Vanilla or chocolate works wonders here. Whey, pea, any type will do – as long as it makes your muscles sing.; Milk or a Milk Alternative: Dairy or non-dairy, pick your liquid chariot. Almond, oat, soy, or good ol’ cow’s milk - they’re all game.; Sweetener of Choice: Honey, agave, stevia, or maybe you’re old school and sugar does the trick. You do you.; Ice Cubes: Because who doesn’t love a chilled brewski? (Coffee version, of course.); Optional Extras: Cocoa powder for a chocolatey kick, cinnamon for some spice, or even a dab of vanilla extract for that sweet aroma. Oh, the possibilities!

Get ready to shake up your daily grind with a concoction that’s as energizing as it is nourishing. We’re talking about whipping up your very own Dutch Bros Protein Coffee right at home—brewing a storm in a cup that’ll recharge your muscles and tickle your taste buds!

Whether you’re rushing out the door on a hectic morning or need a mid-afternoon pick-me-up that packs a punch, this recipe is your new go-to. It’s quick, it’s tasty, and oh-so-satisfying.

How to make Dutch Bros Protein Coffee

Dutch Bros Protein Coffee is a beverage offered by Dutch Bros Coffee, a chain of drive-through coffee shops primarily located in the western United States. This coffee drink is typically made by blending brewed coffee with protein powder, milk or a milk substitute, and often flavored syrups or sweeteners, depending on the customer’s preferences.

What You’ll Need:

Coffee: Your choice, really. Go for a strong brew to match that Dutch Bros vibe. Espresso shots? Sure. A hefty pour-over? Absolutely.
Protein Powder: Vanilla or chocolate works wonders here. Whey, pea, any type will do – as long as it makes your muscles sing.
Milk or a Milk Alternative: Dairy or non-dairy, pick your liquid chariot. Almond, oat, soy, or good ol’ cow’s milk – they’re all game.

Sweetener of Choice: Honey, agave, stevia, or maybe you’re old school and sugar does the trick. You do you.
Ice Cubes: Because who doesn’t love a chilled brewski? (Coffee version, of course.)
Optional Extras: Cocoa powder for a chocolatey kick, cinnamon for some spice, or even a dab of vanilla extract for that sweet aroma. Oh, the possibilities!

Instructions

Brew It Like You Mean It: Start with your coffee. Make it strong enough to wake the dead or at least give you that buzz we all crave in the AM (or PM – no judgment here).
Shake, Rattle, and Roll: Add your freshly brewed coffee, a scoop of that muscle-making protein powder, and a splash of your chosen milk into a blender. No blender? A shaker will do the trick, or even a jar with a tight lid. MacGyver would be proud.
Sweeten the Deal: Dash in your sweetener. Remember, taste as you go. Too sweet? Ditch it. Not sweet enough? Add a smidge more.

Ice: Toss in a handful of ice cubes. Want it frothy and cold? Blend away until smooth. Looking for a bit more texture? Just give it a hearty shake or two.
Pour and Adore: Into your favorite mug or glass it goes. An extra dusting of cinnamon or cocoa on top? Chef’s kiss!

Tips to Live By:

Experiment: This is your stage, your show. Mix up the flavors, switch the milks, play with sweeteners. Find what makes your heart (and muscles) sing.

Protein Wisdom: Some protein powders blend better than others. If you’re getting more lumps than a poorly stirred gravy, consider sifting your powder before adding it, or invest in a good quality blender.
Chill Factor: If iced coffee isn’t your jam, skip the ice. Warm, cozy protein coffee is just as divine and comforting on a cool day.
Nutrition Spot: Looking to really amp up the health factor? Toss in a handful of spinach or a teaspoon of chia seeds. They blend right in without a fuss, and your body will thank you.

What to serve with

You’ve just mastered the art of making Dutch Bros Protein Coffee at home—all the high fives to you! Now, let’s see what you can pair this coffee with

Breakfast

Let’s get this morning rolling with some champions that’ll stand toe-to-toe with your protein-packed coffee. How about some oatmeal pancakes? Fluffy, hearty, and just a little bit sweet, they’re like a bear hug for your stomach. Top them with fresh berries, a dollop of Greek yoghurt, and a drizzle of honey for that mwah-perfect breakfast experience.

Snacks

Ah, snack time. The unsung hero of the day. With a Dutch Bros protein coffee in hand, you might want something on the lighter side. How about apple slices with almond butter? Sweet, nutty, and oh-so-satisfying. It’s like they were born to be together.

Need something a tad more indulgent? Dark chocolate-covered almonds. There, I said it. The bitterness of the chocolate, the crunch of the almonds, combined with the smooth, rich taste of your coffee? Prepare for a taste explosion, my friend.

The Sweet Finish

We can’t forget about dessert. Yes, Dutch Bros protein coffee can dance with desserts too! Whip up a batch of protein brownies. Soft, chewy, and chocolatey, with a bonus protein punch, they’ll make your coffee time feel like a celebration.

Or perhaps you’re feeling a bit fancy? Go for a fruit and nut platter: slices of pear, a handful of walnuts, and some chunks of aged cheddar. It’s sophisticated, it’s delicious, and it makes you feel like you really have your life together.

Ingredients Substitutes

Life’s too short for bland coffee, especially when you’re trying to treat your taste buds and muscles at the same time, right? Let’s shake things up and see how we can spin the classic into something even more fabulous with a few tweaks here and there.

Coffee

First off, the coffee. Now, if you find yourself out of espresso or your regular brew, don’t sweat it. Instant coffee can strut onto this stage without missing a beat. Sure, coffee lovers might gasp, but hey, we’re here for a good time. A robust, smooth instant coffee will do the trick; just make sure it’s strong. Want something gentler? Try a decaf version. You keep the vibe and lose the jitters. Perfect for an evening sip!

Protein Powder

Here’s where it gets interesting. Vanilla and chocolate powders are the classic go-tos, but the world of protein powders is vast and varied. Pea, hemp, or brown rice protein are fantastic plant-based champs that step in beautifully if whey isn’t your jam. Each brings its unique taste and texture, so feel free to experiment. Fancy something a bit different? A flavored protein powder like salted caramel or mocha can add an unexpected twist. Just remember, the goal is harmony between your coffee and the protein flavor.

Milk

Cow’s milk is all cozy and familiar, but let’s not forget its trendy cousins – almond, oat, soy, and coconut milk. Each has its charm. Almond milk brings a nutty whisper, while coconut milk adds a tropical hug. Oat milk? Creamy and sweet, it’s like your coffee’s best friend. And soy milk stands strong with a slightly beany flair, holding its own like a boss. Lactose intolerant or just looking for a change? Here’s your golden ticket to Flavor Town.

Sweetener

Sugar, oh honey, honey. It’s the classic. But what if you want to switch it up? Maple syrup can slide right in there, bringing its rich, caramel-like sweetness. Agave syrup? It’s got a lighter touch, perfect for a subtle kiss of sweetness. And for those dodging sugar, stevia or monk fruit are like ninjas – sweet without the calories. It’s all about finding what tickles your fancy.

Ice

Ice is cool (literally), but not everyone’s cup of…coffee. Want that chilled vibe without watering down your masterpiece? Frozen coffee cubes. Yes, you heard that right. Brew it, freeze it, then blend it. You keep the cool and lose the dilution. Now that’s something to write home about.

Extras and Endnotes

Cocoa powder, cinnamon, even a dash of nutmeg or cardamom can bring a whole new dimension to your cup. They’re like the backup dancers, elevating the performance without stealing the show. And don’t forget a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings for when you’re feeling extra.

Final Thoughts

And there you have it – a Dutch Bros Protein Coffee made right in your kitchen. It’s a game-changer, folks. Easy peasy, delicious, and oh-so-nourishing. This is more than just coffee; it’s a hug for your soul and a high-five for your health.

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