Decoding Dutch Bros' Protein Offerings
Dutch Bros introduced a protein menu in 2024 to cater to customers seeking more protein in their beverages. Their key ingredient is 'protein milk,' a 2% milk base enhanced with casein protein. While nutritional details vary by customization, understanding the core options is crucial for ordering a high-protein drink.
The Highest Protein Base Drinks
The Dutch Bros protein latte, made with espresso and protein milk, is the foundation of their high-protein selection. A medium size provides about 23 grams of protein, which can increase with customizations. Menu items like the Protein Golden Eagle and Protein Vanilla Latte are based on this, offering a consistent protein source.
Customizing for Maximum Protein
To maximize protein, consider customizing your drink. Choosing a large size increases the protein milk volume and total protein. You can also ask for extra protein milk or an additional scoop of soft top (note that soft top adds calories).
Comparing Protein Drinks: Standard vs. Customized
| Drink Type | Base Protein (Medium) | Potential Protein (Large/Custom) | Calorie Consideration | Customization Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Protein Latte | ~23g | ~26g+ (Large) | Moderate | Flavor syrups, sugar-free syrups, hot/iced |
| SF Golden Eagle Protein | ~27g | Up to ~30g+ | Moderate (lower with SF syrups) | Sugar-free caramel & vanilla, protein milk |
| Custom Cold Brew with Protein Milk | Varies (<10g) | Up to 30g+ | Low to Moderate | SF syrups, protein milk, splash of cream |
Exploring Flavor Options for High Protein
Dutch Bros allows you to combine your protein boost with various flavors. Some popular high-protein custom orders include:
- Iced Creamy Vanilla Protein Latte: Espresso, protein milk, and vanilla syrup.
- Hot Annihilator Protein Latte: Espresso, protein milk, and chocolate macadamia nut syrup.
- Iced Salted Caramel Protein Mocha: Salted caramel, espresso, chocolate, and protein milk.
- White Chocolate Chai Protein Latte: Chai tea, white chocolate sauce, and protein milk.
Tips for a Health-Conscious Protein Boost
If you're watching calories or sugar, request sugar-free syrups with your protein drink. The Hopscotch Zero Sugar Added Protein Latte uses sugar-free salted caramel. A medium cold brew with protein milk and sugar-free syrups is another lower-calorie, high-protein option. Custom large orders with extra protein milk have been reported to exceed 40 grams of protein.
Conclusion
For the Dutch Bros drink with the most protein, a custom large protein latte with extra protein milk is likely your best choice. While the standard Protein Golden Eagle provides significant protein, customization allows for even higher amounts. The introduction of protein milk simplifies getting a protein boost in your coffee, enabling tasty and functional drinks that align with your fitness goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Dutch Bros' 'protein milk' made from? Dutch Bros' 'protein milk' is a 2% milk base fortified with additional casein protein, resulting in a non-chalky, creamy base for their protein-enhanced drinks.
2. Which specific Dutch Bros drink has the highest protein content? A custom-ordered large Protein Latte or Cold Brew with extra protein milk will contain the most protein. The standard medium Sugar-Free Golden Eagle Protein Latte also contains a high amount, approximately 27g.
3. Are the protein drinks at Dutch Bros customizable? Yes, their protein drinks are highly customizable. You can choose different flavors, request sugar-free syrups, and even order it iced or hot.
4. Do all drinks at Dutch Bros come with a protein option? While protein milk can be substituted for the standard milk in most coffee and chai drinks, it's not a default option for all beverages. Ask your barista if protein milk can be substituted for the milk in your preferred drink.
5. Can I get a high-protein drink that is also low in sugar? Yes. To get a high-protein, low-sugar drink, order one of the protein latte options and ask for sugar-free syrups instead of regular flavorings. The protein milk itself has naturally occurring sugars.
6. Do the fruit-based Rebel drinks have a protein option? The fruit-based Rebel energy drinks do not typically come with a protein option, as they are not milk-based. Protein milk is an addition for coffee or chai beverages.
7. What is the protein content in a large protein latte? While exact nutritional information depends on customizations, a large protein latte generally contains more than the ~23 grams found in a medium size, with some custom large orders reporting over 40 grams of protein.
8. Does protein milk affect the taste of my drink? According to Dutch Bros and customer reviews, the protein milk is not chalky and has a mouth-feel similar to normal 2% milk, so it does not significantly alter the taste of the final drink.
