There are mornings when I just want something quick, energizing, and clean without firing up the stove or getting into a full meal prep situation. That’s where this Cold Brew Coffee Smoothie comes in. It’s become one of my go-to recipes because it checks so many boxes for how I like to start the day: high protein, no added sugar, and packed with flavor and fuel that actually lasts.

If you’re like me, balancing workouts, work, and trying not to skip breakfast (again), this smoothie might become part of your regular rotation too. It’s easy to make, tastes like a creamy coffee treat, and gives you that smooth caffeine boost you need without any weird ingredients.

Why I Make This on Repeat

This smoothie started as a post-workout coffee experiment. I needed protein and caffeine fast, but I wasn’t in the mood for another shake or another black coffee. I threw a frozen banana, some cold brew, protein powder, and almond butter in the blender and was honestly surprised how good it turned out. Thick like a milkshake, naturally sweet, with just enough richness to make it feel like a real breakfast.

It also doesn’t sit heavy. That’s a big win for me. I want to feel full and fueled, not sluggish or bloated. Whether I’m heading out for a long walk, lifting, or just tackling a packed day, this smoothie gives me a clean start.

What Makes It So Good

I like using cold brew instead of hot coffee because it’s smoother, less acidic, and mixes really well with frozen fruit and protein powder. Frozen banana adds just the right amount of sweetness and gives the smoothie that thick texture without needing dairy or ice cream. The almond butter brings in a nutty flavor and healthy fats to keep me satisfied for hours. And a little cinnamon? Totally optional, but I love how it warms up the flavor.

I use chocolate or vanilla protein powder depending on the vibe, both work great. Chocolate gives it mocha vibes, while vanilla keeps it light and mellow.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Cold Brew Coffee Smoothie, gather these clean, energizing ingredients:

• 1 frozen banana
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• ½ cup cold brew coffee (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder
• 1 tablespoon almond butter
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup ice cubes
• Optional: 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (if extra sweetness is needed)

Instructions

This smoothie comes together in just 5 minutes. Here’s how to make it perfectly creamy and flavorful every time.

1. Brew and Chill (if needed)

If you’re not using store-bought cold brew, brew a strong cup of coffee and chill it in the fridge for at least an hour. You want the coffee cold so it doesn’t water down the smoothie or melt the banana too quickly.

2. Add Ingredients to Blender

In a high-speed blender, combine the frozen banana, cold brew, almond milk, protein powder, almond butter, cinnamon, and ice. If you like it sweeter, add the maple syrup or honey now.

3. Blend It Smooth

Blend for 30–45 seconds until smooth and creamy. You shouldn’t see any ice chunks or gritty powder. The banana should give it a thick, milkshake-like texture.

4. Adjust the Consistency

Check the texture. If it’s too thick, add a splash more almond milk or cold brew. Too thin? Add a few more ice cubes or a couple frozen banana slices.

5. Pour and Serve

Pour your smoothie into a tall glass or insulated tumbler. You can dust the top with cinnamon or cacao powder for a fancy finish. Enjoy immediately!

Optional Add-ins for Boosts

Want to customize your smoothie? Try these clean add-ins to upgrade nutrition and flavor:

• 1 teaspoon MCT oil for brain fuel
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed for fiber
• 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder for mocha flavor
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract for extra depth
• A handful of frozen cauliflower rice (you won’t taste it, but it adds volume and nutrients)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrition facts are approximate and vary based on ingredients used.

When I Drink This

Honestly, this smoothie works whenever I need clean energy in a hurry. Most often, it’s my morning routine when I don’t have time to cook. But I’ve also had it:

• As a pre-workout drink when I’m lifting later in the morning
• As a post-workout refuel with a boost of caffeine
• On busy afternoons when I want something better than a store-bought coffee drink
• As a light lunch when I’m short on time but still want something filling

It travels well too—so if you’re commuting, hitting the gym, or running errands, you can take it with you and sip as you go.

Smoothie Tips for the Best Blend

Make sure your banana is frozen. It’s the backbone of that creamy texture. If it’s not frozen, the smoothie just doesn’t come out the same. I usually peel and freeze bananas in halves so I always have some on hand.

Also, don’t skip letting your coffee cool. Hot coffee will melt the ice and mess with the consistency. And once it’s blended, give it a taste before pouring. Depending on your protein powder, you might want to adjust the sweetness.

One more thing: if you want to level it up, you can sneak in a scoop of ground flax or chia seeds for fiber, or a little cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate hit. I’ve even tossed in frozen cauliflower rice a couple of times when I had some to use up, totally invisible in the final smoothie, but adds a little volume and nutrition.

My Honest Take

This Cold Brew Coffee Smoothie is the kind of recipe that earns a spot in your regular routine. It’s quick, it’s clean, and it’s built for the days when you need a little extra from your breakfast without a big production. I make it when I need fuel that works with my schedule. I never get tired of that combo of cold brew, banana, and protein. Give it a try tomorrow, I think you’ll be hooked.

Cold Brew Coffee Smoothie Recipe

This cold brew protein smoothie combines the best of both worlds--coffee and protein--into one healthy smoothie recipe.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings 1

Calories 496 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 banana
• 1 scoop protein powder
• 1/2 cup cold brew coffee
• 1/2 cup milk of choice
• 3 tbsp peanut butter
• ice

Instructions

 

• Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
• Enjoy!

Notes

Protein powder: I used vanilla-flavored grass-fed whey protein powder

 

Nut butter: can use whatever kind you like (if you don't want to use peanut butter)