The New Protein-Packed Drinks
Starbucks has recently expanded its menu to include a permanent lineup of protein-boosted beverages, making it incredibly simple to hit your protein goals with a single order. These drinks are made with a special protein-boosted 2% milk and topped with rich protein cold foam.
- Iced Protein Matcha: This vibrant, unsweetened matcha latte uses protein-boosted milk to deliver an impressive 36g of protein in a grande size. A perfect option for matcha lovers seeking a significant protein boost.
- Vanilla Protein Latte (Hot or Iced): A classic with a powerful upgrade. This latte combines signature espresso with protein-boosted milk and vanilla syrup, offering up to 29g of protein in the iced version.
- Iced Banana Cream Protein Matcha: For a fruity twist, this matcha latte is topped with banana protein cold foam, providing 24g of protein in a grande. You can potentially increase the protein by asking for protein-boosted milk, though this may alter the flavor profile.
Customizing Your Drink with Protein Boosts
Beyond the dedicated menu items, Starbucks allows you to add protein to many existing beverages through simple customizations. This is an excellent way to get 30 grams of protein at Starbucks in your favorite drink.
- Add Protein Cold Foam: This frothy topping adds approximately 15 grams of protein to any grande-sized cold coffee, iced tea, or Refresher. To reach 30g, you can ask for a double serving of the protein cold foam on your iced beverage. Options include vanilla, chocolate, and banana cream.
- Swap to Protein-Boosted Milk: For hot or cold milk-based drinks, you can request to swap regular milk for the new protein-boosted 2% milk. This adds 12 to 16 grams of protein to your drink, depending on the size and type of drink. Pair this with a protein cold foam for an easy way to get over 30 grams.
- The "Secret Menu" Protein Shake Hack: A viral method involves ordering a double shot of espresso over ice in a venti cup. Next, purchase a pre-bottled Fairlife Core Power shake (30-31g protein) from the grab-and-go cooler and pour it into your cup. This is a quick and effective way to get your protein and caffeine fix.
Combining Food Items for a 30g+ Meal
If you prefer to get your protein from food, combining a few menu items can get you well over the 30-gram mark. Starbucks offers several boxes and sandwiches that, when paired correctly, make a complete, high-protein meal.
- Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box (22g protein) + Egg White & Roasted Red Pepper Egg Bites (12g protein): This combination provides a substantial 34 grams of protein, making for a filling and savory breakfast or lunch.
- Cheese & Fruit Protein Box (20g protein) + Perfect Bar Dark Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter (15g protein): This snack-focused option yields 35 grams of protein. The cheese box offers savory flavors, while the Perfect Bar provides a sweet, nutty finish.
- Spinach, Feta & Egg White Wrap (20g protein) + Two Bacon & Gruyère Egg Bites (19g protein): This is a serious protein meal, clocking in at 39 grams. The savory wrap and rich egg bites create a delicious and satisfying combination.
Comparing Your 30g Protein Choices at Starbucks
Here is a quick look at some of the best strategies for a high-protein order:
| Strategy | Order Example | Approximate Protein (Grande/Venti) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official Latte | Iced Protein Matcha | 36g | Single item, high protein, officially on menu. | May not be available at all locations or all year. |
| Custom Cold Foam | Iced Coffee with 2x Protein Cold Foam | ~30g | Customizable flavor, can add to many drinks. | Can be higher in sugar and costs extra per foam. |
| DIY Shake Hack | Double Shot Espresso + Fairlife Core Power | ~31g | High protein, efficient, low effort. | Requires purchasing two separate items. |
| Food Combo | Eggs & Cheddar Protein Box + Egg Bites | 34g | Balanced macros, substantial meal. | More expensive and higher in calories than a drink alone. |
| Official Food + Drink | Cheese & Fruit Box + Vanilla Protein Latte | ~49g | Very high protein, complete meal. | Higher cost and calorie count. |
Conclusion
Whether you opt for one of Starbucks' new, officially protein-packed menu items or use a clever customization hack, getting 30 grams of protein at Starbucks is simple and convenient. The easiest and most direct method is to order one of the new Protein Lattes or Matcha, which are formulated to hit the target protein count in a single grande drink. For those who prefer a solid meal, combining a Protein Box with some Egg Bites offers a filling and balanced option. For a quick on-the-go boost, the Fairlife shake hack is a tried-and-true method that gets the job done efficiently. No matter your preference, Starbucks has an option to help you meet your nutritional goals. Protein Lattes and Protein Cold Foam | Starbucks Coffee Company.
