Does Protein Coffee Have Caffeine?

January 5, 2026 •

3 min read

Caffeine, with a half-life of 5-6 hours, takes 30-60 minutes to reach peak levels in the bloodstream. Protein coffee, also known as "proffee", combines caffeine's boost with added protein for extended energy.

Quick Summary

Protein coffee includes caffeine because it is made with coffee. Caffeine levels depend on the coffee strength and any added protein powders. This combination offers energy and may increase satiety.

Key Points

Caffeine is present: Protein coffee naturally contains caffeine because it is made with a coffee base; the amount depends on the coffee type and strength.
Protein can affect absorption: The addition of protein may lead to a more gradual energy release, potentially reducing caffeine's immediate effects.
Caffeine content varies: Total caffeine levels depend on the choice of ingredients, such as adding a standard protein powder or using a pre-made shake.
Check for hidden caffeine: Some flavored protein powders contain caffeine, so check the label.
Monitor intake: Overconsumption is possible if using caffeinated protein products and other coffee.
Mix protein correctly: Mix the protein powder with a small amount of cold liquid or use a blender to prevent clumping.

Caffeine's Presence in the Coffee Base

Protein coffee contains caffeine because it is made with coffee as the base. The caffeine level directly correlates to the coffee type. A standard cup of drip coffee has around 95mg of caffeine, and a single espresso shot has roughly 63mg.

Impact of Added Protein on Caffeine Experience

Protein may slow caffeine absorption, potentially leading to a more consistent energy release. This may help to prevent jitters and crashes.

Protein Powder vs. Pre-Made Shakes: A Comparison

Preparation impacts the final caffeine content. Protein coffee can be made by adding protein powder to coffee or combining coffee with a pre-made protein shake.

1. Adding Protein Powder: The caffeine level primarily depends on the coffee used. Most protein powders do not add caffeine unless coffee-flavored, but these might contain a small amount. It's essential to check the label.

2. Combining with Pre-made Shakes: Pre-made, coffee-flavored protein shakes often contain added caffeine and list the amount on the label. This provides a known quantity of both caffeine and protein but limits control over the coffee type.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While convenient, protein coffee has potential downsides. Combining multiple caffeine sources can lead to excess intake, exceeding the recommended 400mg daily limit, which could cause anxiety or sleep issues. Digestive issues, such as bloating, may also occur due to caffeine and certain protein powders. Individuals with kidney conditions should consult a doctor about protein intake.

Preparation Methods: Hot vs. Cold

Mixing protein powder may result in clumps, especially with hot liquids. Here are some preparation tips:

Blender: Blend all ingredients for a smooth texture.
Shaker Bottle: Mix with cold coffee or cool hot coffee before shaking.
Paste Method (Hot Coffee): Mix protein powder with a small amount of cool liquid to form a paste before adding hot coffee slowly.
Pre-made Shake: Add espresso or cold brew concentrate to a coffee-flavored shake.

Protein Coffee vs. Regular Coffee: A Comparative Table


Feature	Protein Coffee (Proffee)	Regular Black Coffee
Caffeine Source	Brewed coffee/extract + sometimes added caffeine	Brewed coffee/beans
Energy Release	Slower, more sustained	Faster spike, potential crash
Satiety / Fullness	High	Low
Muscle Support	Provides amino acids	Minimal/none
Convenience	Two-in-one meal/drink	Easy to brew, less nutritional value
Cost	Typically higher	Lower
Customization	Flavor and protein type customizable	Flavor based on bean/roast

Conclusion

Protein coffee contains caffeine from the coffee base, providing a functional beverage that combines the effects of coffee with protein benefits like sustained energy, muscle support, and appetite control. It may be beneficial for those looking for an alternative to regular coffee or sugary drinks, especially for fitness goals. However, monitoring total caffeine intake and being aware of digestive issues is important. Checking product labels for added ingredients like sugar or excess caffeine is always recommended.

More Insights on the Protein Coffee Trend

For more information on the proffee trend, its benefits, and how to create it perfectly, Naked Nutrition's comprehensive guide offers valuable information: What Is Protein Coffee? Everything You Need to Know About the Proffee Trend.

Frequently Asked Questions

The caffeine content is determined by the coffee used. A standard cup with drip coffee can contain around 95mg of caffeine. Pre-made shakes vary, with some brands listing 60-120mg or more per serving.

Not necessarily. The protein powder itself is usually caffeine-free. Any increase comes from the coffee base or if the protein powder contains a caffeinated ingredient like coffee extract, green tea, or matcha.

Protein coffee provides more nutritional benefits than black coffee, providing additional protein for satiety, muscle support, and sustained energy. However, regular coffee with a balanced, protein-rich breakfast is also a great option.

Mix the protein powder with a small amount of cool liquid first, creating a paste before adding the hot coffee. Using a blender or shaker bottle is also effective.

Approach protein coffee cautiously if you're caffeine-sensitive. The protein may soften the effects, but the full caffeine dose is still present. Consider a decaffeinated coffee base or a protein powder with no added stimulants.

High temperatures can cause some protein powders, like whey, to denature and clump, which affects the texture but not the nutritional value. Heat-stable options like collagen peptides are a good choice for hot beverages.

Proffee is a popular social media nickname for protein coffee, a beverage made by adding protein powder or a protein shake to coffee.