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starbucks protein cold foam

Starbucks Protein Cold Foam Recipe

A creamy, airy topping made with just three simple ingredients—nonfat milk, vanilla protein powder, and sweetener—that recreates the café favorite in 5 minutes for about $0.75 per serving.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 2 Servings
Calories: 35
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 cup cold nonfat milk Creates the light, airy texture without adding heaviness; the low fat content allows for better foam formation
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 30g, adds 10g of protein per serving; whey protein isolate works best for smooth texture
  • 1-2 teaspoons sugar or sweetener Optional; balances any protein powder aftertaste and matches Starbucks' sweetness level
  • 4-5 cubes ice cubes Chills the mixture during frothing and helps create thick, stable foam texture
Optional Add-Ins for Customization
  • 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract Intensifies vanilla flavor
  • 1 pinch sea salt Enhances sweetness and balances flavors
  • 1 teaspoon cocoa powder Creates chocolate protein cold foam
  • to taste cinnamon or pumpkin spice Seasonal variations
Ingredient Substitutions
  • 0.5 cup 2% milk or whole milk Alternative to nonfat milk; will be slightly denser and less airy, but still delicious with creamier taste
  • 0.5 cup unsweetened almond milk Alternative to nonfat milk; foams well but produces less stable foam

Equipment

  • cocktail shaker or mason jar
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Combine cold nonfat milk, vanilla protein powder, sweetener (if using), and ice cubes in a blender or milk frother.
  1. Blend or froth on high speed until the mixture reaches a thick, creamy, cloud-like consistency with visible microfoam, approximately 1-2 minutes.
  1. Pour the protein cold foam over your cold brew or iced coffee drink.
  1. Serve immediately and enjoy the silky texture and creamy vanilla notes.