Protein Cold Foam Iced Coffee (Starbucks-Style High Protein Foam)

How to Make Protein Cold Foam Iced Coffee (Starbucks-Style High Protein Foam)

1. 1

   Step 1: Prepare iced coffee glasses

   Divide ice evenly between two tall glasses. Add the simple syrup to each glass, then pour chilled cold-brew (or strongly chilled brewed coffee) over the ice and stir briefly to combine.

   For this step

   • 16 fl ozCold-brewed coffee or strongly chilled brewed coffee
   • 2 cupsIce
   • 2 tbspSimple syrup (1:1) or liquid sweetener
   
2. 2

   Step 2: Combine foam ingredients

   In a blender or tall measuring cup, combine whey protein, cold milk, cold heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a tiny pinch of xanthan gum (if using). The cold ingredients and small xanthan amount help the foam set and stay stable.

   For this step

   • 2 scoopsWhey protein isolate (vanilla works best)
   • 1/2 cupCold milk (2% or preferred milk)
   • 1/4 cupCold heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter foam)
   • 1 tspVanilla extract
   • a pinchXanthan gum (optional, pinch for extra stability)
   
3. 3

   Step 3: Froth to a thick, stable foam

   Blend on high for 10–20 seconds until the mixture is airy and thick — it should roughly double in volume and form soft peaks. Alternatively, use a handheld milk frother and whisk for 20–30 seconds; stop when the foam is spoonable and holds shape.
   
4. 4

   Step 4: Adjust texture if needed

   If the foam is too thin, pulse briefly more in the blender or add 1–2 tsp more protein and remix; if it’s overly stiff, fold in a tablespoon of cold milk. Taste and add a touch more sweetener or vanilla if desired.
   
5. 5

   Step 5: Assemble and serve

   Spoon or pour the protein cold foam over the prepared iced coffee, letting it float on top. Serve immediately and optionally dust with cocoa, cinnamon, or a few espresso beans for garnish.
   

1. Divide ice evenly between two tall glasses. Add the simple syrup to each glass, then pour chilled cold-brew (or strongly chilled brewed coffee) over the ice and stir briefly to combine.
2. In a blender or tall measuring cup, combine whey protein, cold milk, cold heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a tiny pinch of xanthan gum (if using). The cold ingredients and small xanthan amount help the foam set and stay stable.
3. Blend on high for 10–20 seconds until the mixture is airy and thick — it should roughly double in volume and form soft peaks. Alternatively, use a handheld milk frother and whisk for 20–30 seconds; stop when the foam is spoonable and holds shape.
4. If the foam is too thin, pulse briefly more in the blender or add 1–2 tsp more protein and remix; if it’s overly stiff, fold in a tablespoon of cold milk. Taste and add a touch more sweetener or vanilla if desired.
5. Spoon or pour the protein cold foam over the prepared iced coffee, letting it float on top. Serve immediately and optionally dust with cocoa, cinnamon, or a few espresso beans for garnish.