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Freshly brewed hot coffee
Protein powder (vanilla or caramel flavor works best)
Caramel sauce or sugar-free caramel syrup
Milk or milk alternative (almond, oat, or dairy)
Optional sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or sugar substitute)
Optional whipped cream or caramel drizzle for topping
Equipment Needed
Coffee maker or espresso machine
Heat-safe mug
Small bowl or shaker cup
Whisk, milk frother, or spoon
Instructions
Brew your coffee and pour it into a large heat-safe mug.
In a separate bowl or shaker, mix the protein powder with a small amount of warm milk until smooth and lump-free.
Stir the protein mixture into the hot coffee slowly.
Add caramel sauce or syrup and stir well.
Sweeten to taste, if needed, and top with whipped cream or a light caramel drizzle, if desired.
Tips & Variations
Use sugar-free caramel syrup to keep it low-calorie.
Froth the milk before adding for a coffeehouse-style finish.
Try salted caramel syrup for a sweet-and-salty twist.
For extra creaminess, blend everything briefly with an immersion blender.
Caramel Protein Hot Coffee
Description
This Caramel Protein Hot Coffee is a delightful blend of robust coffee, creamy caramel, and protein that energizes your day while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Caramel Protein Hot Coffee
Instructions
Brewing the Perfect Coffee
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Choose Your Coffee
Start by selecting your favorite coffee beans. Whether you prefer a bold dark roast or a light, fruity blend, make sure it's freshly ground for the best flavor.Freshly ground coffee makes a world of difference—trust me! -
Brew Your Coffee
Brew your coffee using your preferred method—drip, French press, or espresso machine. Aim for about 8 ounces of strong coffee to serve as the base for your caramel protein hot coffee.For an extra kick, consider using a coffee-to-water ratio that’s slightly stronger than usual.
Creating the Caramel Delight
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Make the Caramel Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it simmer until it turns a deep amber color. Be careful not to burn it!Keep a close eye on the caramel; it can go from golden to burnt in seconds! -
Add Cream to the Caramel
Once your caramel is ready, remove it from heat and carefully whisk in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. It will bubble up, so add it slowly. Stir until smooth and let it cool slightly.This creamy caramel is your secret sauce—don’t skimp on it!
Combining It All
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Mix in Protein
In a separate cup, mix 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder with a splash of hot water, whisking until fully dissolved. This will help prevent clumps in the final drink.If you prefer a vegan option, there are great plant-based protein powders available! -
Combine Everything
Pour your brewed coffee into a large mug, followed by the dissolved protein mixture and the homemade caramel sauce. Stir well to combine all the flavors.Feel free to adjust the amount of caramel based on your sweetness preference!
Finishing Touches
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Froth Your Milk
If desired, froth some milk (dairy or non-dairy) and pour it over the top of your coffee mixture. This adds a delightful creaminess.A milk frother or even a whisk can do the trick—just have fun with it! -
Garnish and Serve
Top with a drizzle of extra caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty balance. Serve hot and enjoy!This drink is not just tasty; it’s a hug in a mug!
Note
- For a richer flavor, consider using freshly brewed espresso instead of regular coffee.
- If you prefer a sweeter drink, adjust the amount of caramel syrup to taste.
- Use unsweetened protein powder for better control over sweetness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Experiment with flavored protein powders, such as vanilla or chocolate, to enhance the taste.
- Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel for a decadent finish.
- Store any leftover caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Pair this drink with a protein-rich snack, like a protein bar or Greek yogurt, for a balanced breakfast.