Cold Brew Protein Shake
Coffee that works harder than coffee. Cold brew is easier on a sensitive stomach than regular iced coffee, and this version adds protein while it’s at it. Blend it, shake it, or just stir it — five minutes or less. The fatigue that comes with early GLP-1 is real. This doesn’t fix it, but it can help.
Allergens:
Ingredients
Ingredient notes:
- Cold brew concentrate - Lower acidity than regular iced coffee, which makes it genuinely gentler on a sensitive GLP-1 stomach. Store-bought concentrate works perfectly. If using regular cold brew (not concentrate), use 1 cup and reduce almond milk to ¼ cup.
- Greek yogurt vs. protein powder - Greek yogurt gives ~11g protein and a creamy, slightly tangy result. A scoop of vanilla protein powder pushes that to ~25g with fewer carbs. Greek yogurt is the more accessible starting point; protein powder is the upgrade when appetite and tolerance improve.
- Almond milk - Any unsweetened milk works. Dairy milk adds protein and creaminess. Oat milk adds carbs and a malty sweetness that pairs well with coffee.
- Vanilla extract - Small amount, big difference. Don’t skip it.
- On caffeine - Cold brew concentrate typically contains 100–150mg of caffeine per half cup - comparable to a standard cup of coffee. Caffeine sensitivity can shift on GLP-1 for some people. If you notice increased jitteriness or nausea, reduce the cold brew and increase the almond milk to compensate.
Recipe Instructions
- Start with the protein - Add Greek yogurt (or protein powder), vanilla, and honey to the blender first. This ensures the protein base blends fully before the liquids go in.
- Add and blend - Add cold brew, almond milk, and ice. Blend on high for 30–45 seconds until completely smooth and cold.
- Taste and adjust - It should be cold, creamy, and lightly sweet. A little more honey if you want more sweetness. A little more cold brew if you want it more coffee-forward. Adjust now.
- Pour and drink - Pour into a glass. Best cold and fresh. If taking on the go, pour into a sealed cup or bottle and keep cold.
Recipe notes:
No blender? Add Greek yogurt, vanilla, and honey to a tall glass or jar. Whisk until smooth. Add cold brew, almond milk, and ice. Stir well or shake with a lid on. Texture will be thinner but the flavor is the same.
Nutrition Per Serving
Serving Size: 1 shake (~1.5 cups)
| with Greek Yogurt | with Protein Powder | |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 130 | 140 |
| Protein | 11g | 25g |
| Total Fat | 4g | 3g |
| Total Carbohydrate | 7g | 5g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g | 0g |
| Sugar | 4g | 2g |
| Sodium | 80mg | 150mg |
| Caffeine | 100-150mg | 100-150mg |
Based on cold brew concentrate and unsweetened almond milk. Caffeine will vary by brand. Values shown without honey - add ~21 cal and ~6g carbs per tsp if using. Nutritional information is estimated and provided for general guidance.