Is coffee with milk protein? A nutritional breakdown

October 11, 2025 •

4 min read

While plain black coffee contains only a minimal amount of protein, adding milk significantly boosts its protein content. The amount of protein ultimately depends on the type and quantity of milk you add to your cup, making it a modest but helpful source of this essential macronutrient.

Quick Summary

The protein in coffee with milk comes from the milk itself, not the coffee bean. It's a small but valuable addition to your daily intake, with amounts varying based on the milk type. It's not a primary protein source but offers nutritional benefits, including calcium and vitamins, while having minimal impact on overall protein absorption.

Key Points

Milk Adds Protein: The protein in coffee with milk comes from the dairy or plant-based milk, as black coffee contains negligible protein.
Milk Type Matters: Protein content varies significantly among milk types, with dairy and soy offering more than almond milk.
Not a Major Source: A standard coffee with milk provides a modest protein boost, not a complete protein meal replacement.
No Absorption Interference: Drinking coffee does not block or hinder your body's absorption of protein from food.
Choose the Right Option: For a significant protein intake, consider adding protein powder directly to your coffee rather than relying solely on milk.
Possible Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The combination of milk protein and coffee antioxidants may enhance anti-inflammatory properties, according to some research.
Nutrient Boost: Beyond protein, milk adds valuable nutrients like calcium, Vitamin D, and B12 to your coffee.

The Origin of Protein in Your Coffee

Black coffee on its own provides almost no protein, with one cup containing less than a single gram. The primary source of protein in a latte, cappuccino, or any other milk-based coffee drink is the milk itself. Dairy milk, for instance, contains two main proteins: whey and casein. Plant-based milks, such as soy or some oat milk varieties, also contain protein derived from their source ingredients.

How Milk Type Influences Protein Content

The amount of protein you get from your coffee depends directly on the type of milk you choose. Dairy milks generally offer a consistent protein source, while plant-based milks can vary widely. For example, a single cup of cow's milk contains about 8 grams of protein. A cup of coffee with a splash of milk will naturally provide less, but it still adds to your daily intake.

Here’s a general breakdown of protein content for different milk types:

Cow's Milk (whole, 2%, 1%): Approximately 8 grams per cup, with minimal variation based on fat content. Ultrafiltered versions can offer even more protein.
Soy Milk: A close second to cow's milk in terms of protein, typically offering 6 to 8 grams per cup.
Oat Milk: Protein content varies, but 'Barista blend' versions are often formulated for higher protein (around 4 grams per cup) to improve frothing.
Almond Milk: Generally much lower in protein, often containing only 1 to 2 grams per cup.

Potential Health Benefits of Coffee with Milk

Beyond adding a creamy flavor, combining coffee and milk offers a few surprising health benefits. Research from the University of Copenhagen found that combining milk proteins with coffee's polyphenols (antioxidants) can double the anti-inflammatory effect on immune cells. Additionally, for individuals sensitive to the acidity of black coffee, adding milk can help neutralize the acidity, making the beverage easier on the stomach.

Comparing Milk-Based Coffee Options

Choosing the right milk involves balancing taste, texture, and nutritional goals. The table below compares the typical nutritional profiles of common milks used in coffee.


Milk Type	Protein (per cup)	Fat (per cup)	Notes
Whole Cow's Milk	~8g	~8g	Rich, creamy, and foams well.
Skim Cow's Milk	~8g	<1g	Lower in fat, but less creamy and doesn't froth as well.
Ultrafiltered Milk	~13g	~5g	Concentrated protein and calcium; good for protein boosts.
Soy Milk	~6-8g	~4g	Consistent protein and good frothing, nutty flavor.
Barista Oat Milk	~4g	~5g	Creamy texture, designed for coffee, better frothing than regular oat milk.
Almond Milk	~1-2g	~3g	Low protein, nutty flavor, but less creamy and may separate.

Coffee with Milk vs. a Dedicated Protein Shake

It's important to recognize that while coffee with milk contains protein, it is not a high-protein beverage suitable for serious muscle-building or post-workout recovery. For comparison, a scoop of standard protein powder can contain 20-30 grams of protein, a much more concentrated dose than a splash of milk.

For those looking to combine their caffeine kick with a significant protein boost, a protein coffee, or 'proffee', is an increasingly popular option. This involves blending a scoop of protein powder directly into your coffee.

Is Protein Absorption Affected by Coffee?

A persistent myth suggests that coffee or caffeine can interfere with protein absorption, but research does not support this claim. Studies indicate that for most healthy adults, consuming coffee does not block the body's ability to absorb protein. In fact, the heat from hot coffee might slightly aid in protein digestion by denaturing the proteins. However, it's worth noting that coffee can interfere with iron absorption, so it's best to consume it separately from iron-rich meals if you have concerns about iron levels.

Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective

In conclusion, asking "is coffee with milk protein?" reveals that the beverage does contain a modest amount of protein, sourced entirely from the milk added. It serves as a small nutritional supplement rather than a major protein source. The best choice of milk depends on your taste and nutritional goals, whether you prioritize a rich, creamy texture or a low-fat, high-protein option. For those seeking a substantial protein boost, adding protein powder is a more effective method. Overall, a balanced diet is always the key to meeting your nutritional needs, and enjoying your coffee with milk can be a part of that plan.

How to make a high-protein coffee at home

Creating a protein-rich coffee is simple and customizable to your dietary needs. The most effective way is to incorporate protein powder. Here is a simple recipe:

Brew your coffee as usual, and let it cool slightly for a minute or two to prevent the protein powder from clumping.
Add a scoop of your preferred protein powder (whey, soy, or pea) to a shaker cup with a small amount of milk or coffee to create a smooth paste.
Combine the paste with the rest of your coffee, stirring or blending until smooth.
Experiment with flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or caramel protein powder to replace sugary creamers.
For iced coffee, blend with a handful of ice for a creamy, chilled beverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, black coffee on its own contains only a trace amount of protein, so it is not a source of this macronutrient.

The protein content varies based on the amount and type of milk. A cup with a modest splash of milk will contain a few grams, while a latte can contain between 6 and 8 grams or more, depending on the milk.

Adding milk to coffee provides a small protein boost, but it is not an efficient way to meet significant protein goals. For a substantial protein intake, you would need to add protein powder.

No, there is no evidence to suggest that coffee cancels out protein absorption. For most healthy people, consuming coffee with protein is perfectly fine.

For the highest protein content, ultrafiltered cow's milk is an excellent option, often containing more than standard milk. Among plant-based milks, soy milk is typically the highest in protein.

Yes, many people add protein powder to coffee to create 'proffee' for a higher protein content. It's best to let hot coffee cool slightly to prevent the powder from clumping.

Research suggests that milk proteins can bind to some coffee antioxidants (polyphenols), which might reduce their bioavailability. However, the combination can also potentially increase anti-inflammatory effects.