How to Turn a Cup of Coffee Into 10 High-Protein Breakfasts

If you're like most people, you probably pair your breakfast with your morning brew. But what if you combined the two to create one delightfully delectable, café-infused dish? Mind. Blown.

"Although you typically associate a cup of joe as a beverage you look forward to as part of your morning wake-up routine, coffee can also be a delicious ingredient," says dietitian Laura Burak, RD, founder of GetNaked Nutrition and author of ​Slim Down with Smoothies: A 21-Day Plan for Weight Loss and Good Health.​

"Adding coffee to morning recipes will not only enhance the flavor of your food but can give you a boost of energy and help you concentrate on the day ahead," Burak says.

Wake up with these 10 delicious coffee breakfast recipes high in protein. You're welcome.

• ​256 calories​
• ​22 grams of protein​

Got a teaspoon of leftover grounds at the bottom of your coffee can? This yummy yogurt recipe is the perfect way to repurpose them.

"This super simple three-ingredient recipe has powerhouse nutrients to keep you full and satisfied," Burak says. "Greek yogurt provides a hit of protein and probiotics while walnuts are one of the most heart-healthy nut options."

• ​330 calories​
• ​22 grams of protein​

Fan of Frappuccino?s This homemade iced coffee blend boasts half the sugar, ten times the fiber and seven times the protein than your average Starbucks Espresso Frappuccino. But it still flaunts all the flavor of your favorite Frap.

"This reminds me of a decadent chocolate banana milkshake but only healthy and nutritious," Burak says. "The protein from the soy milk and protein powder will keep your blood sugar stable, and the banana and espresso will provide a quick energy boost to keep you going between meals," she says.

• ​634 calories​
• ​42 grams of protein​

These java-infused flapjacks with a low-fat creamy frosting are guaranteed to give you a standing ovation around the breakfast table.

"These tiramisu pancakes sound like dessert, but the genius addition of egg whites, cottage cheese and flax in this recipe provide a dose of protein [an impressive 42 grams per serving] and heart-healthy fat to keep you full and satisfied," Burak says.

While this dish is a tad calorie-rich, you get a plentiful portion: three large pancakes (think: a big brunch that'll hold you over until dinnertime).

• ​284 calories​
• ​15 grams of protein​

Ever wonder what would happen if you combined a hot cup of coffee with a thick milkshake? This mouthwatering beverage is your answer.

"Greek yogurt turns this drink from a pretty typical cup of coffee into a snack with enough protein to keep your hunger in check between meals," Burak says. And while it tastes just as good as a store-bought coffee shake, it only contains a fraction of the sugar. "Stevia and vanilla extract provide sweetness without added sugar," Burak says.

If you're watching your fat content, hold the heavy cream and swap in a low-fat whipped cream.

• ​Calories: N/A​
• ​Protein: N/A​

Think oatmeal is a boring breakfast option? Prepare to have your mind blown with this cold brew coffee overnight oats recipe. These palate-pleasing proats (i.e., protein oats) provide your morning perk and healthy whole grains all in one bowl.

"The combo of protein powder, oats and chia seeds add substance to these overnight oats by offering enough protein and fiber to keep your blood sugar stable throughout the morning," Burak says.

Plus, these simple proats are magnificent for meal prep. Just mix the handful of pantry staples in a mason jar the night before and wake up to a feast in your fridge.

• ​471 calories​
• ​11 grams of protein​

This satiating mochaccino smoothie is ready in a snap — just 10 minutes from prep to your glass. It touts twice the plant-based power thanks to almond and pea milks.

Not only does pea milk's creamy consistency come very close to cow's milk, but it also provides as much muscle-building protein as a cup of dairy milk, Burak says.

And that's not just great news for your muscles but also for your overall long-term health: Swapping some plant-based proteins for animal products is linked to a reduced risk of developing certain cancers and heart-related diseases, according to an August 2019 study in the ​Journal of the American Medical Association Internal Medicine​.

• ​193 calories​
• ​25 grams of protein​

All you need is a blender and five common kitchen ingredients to make this cold brew breakfast smoothie that whips up into a flavorful, frothy masterpiece.

"Protein powder adds a boost to this shake and the natural ingredients like banana, coffee and cacao nibs are a great way to add sweetness and depth to the mix without the need for added sugar," Burak says.

Cacao nibs also lend an extra layer of complex flavors including a rich chocolaty, slightly nutty taste.

• ​340 calories​
• ​11 grams of protein​

Pining for your PSL fix? These pumpkin spice latte overnight oats will scratch your itch.

This outstanding oatmeal offers everything you love about a latte, but with a whole lot more nourishing nutrients. Made with pure pumpkin puree, plain Greek yogurt and chia seeds, these latte-laced oats supply a solid source of fiber, protein and healthy fats for a beautifully balanced breakfast.

A pinch of pumpkin spice serves up warm, comforting flavors that complement the natural sweetness of the pumpkin.

• ​450 calories​
• ​14 grams of protein​

Smooth and sweet, this coffee protein smoothie comes together with nutrient-dense ingredients like Medjool dates, flax seeds and almond butter (which gives this caffeinated shake its incredibly creamy consistency). Meanwhile, hemp hearts deliver a substantial dose of heart-healthy omega-3s and protein.

Not to mention this flavorful frosty is a fantastic on-the-go breakfast — just transfer your mocha to a travel mug, and you're ready to hit the road.

Pro tip: Slice bananas into smaller pieces before freezing for a seamless blending experience.

• ​389 calories​
• ​20 grams of protein​

Cold brew coffee + overnight oats = A wonderful way to kickstart your morning.

Not your average oats, this breakfast bowl supplies several sources of high-quality protein (20 grams per serving) — including nut butter, chia seeds and vanilla protein powder — making it the perfect post-workout a.m. meal for building muscle.

A drizzle of maple syrup and a dash of vanilla extract enhance the delicious breakfast dish with a slight sweetness that doesn't overpower the oats' rich, nutty flavors.