Chocolate Coffee Protein Shake

This decadent chocolate coffee protein shake transforms ordinary egg whites into a cafe-worthy treat that's packed with protein and incredibly low in calories. It's my guilt-free alternative to those sugar-laden coffee shop drinks that always left me feeling sluggish afterward.

I created this recipe during my fitness competition prep when I was craving something sweet but needed to stay on track with my protein goals. Now it's my go-to afternoon pick-me-up that satisfies my sweet tooth without derailing my nutrition.

Ingredients

• 4 egg whites (186 g): Pasteurized liquid egg whites provide clean protein and create the perfect frothy texture
• ½ teaspoon instant coffee: Delivers that coffee shop flavor without brewing a whole pot
• 2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder: Look for Dutch-processed for a smoother chocolate flavor
• 1 tablespoon Stevia: Provides sweetness without the calories or blood sugar spike
• 4 large ice cubes: Essential for creating that slushy frappe texture

Step-by-Step Instructions

Create the Base:

Add 2 egg whites, ½ tablespoon Stevia, instant coffee, cocoa powder, and all 4 ice cubes to your blender. Blend on high speed for about 30-45 seconds until the mixture resembles slush ice with a smooth consistency. The ice should be completely crushed with no large chunks remaining.

Whip the Topping:

In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 2 egg whites and ½ tablespoon Stevia. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with whisk attachment, beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until stiff peaks form. The mixture should be light, fluffy, and hold its shape when you lift the beaters.

Assemble Your Shake:

Pour the chocolate coffee slush mixture into a tall glass, leaving about an inch of space at the top. The consistency should be thick enough to support the topping but still drinkable with a straw.

Add the Finishing Touch:

Gently spoon the whipped egg white mixture on top of the slush, creating a cloud-like layer. Dust lightly with a small sprinkle of additional cocoa powder for visual appeal and extra chocolate aroma.

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The instant coffee is truly the secret ingredient here. I tried using regular brewed coffee, but it diluted the shake too much and didn't provide that intense mocha flavor. Just that tiny half-teaspoon of instant coffee creates the perfect coffee shop experience without any bitterness.

Safe Egg Handling

Always use pasteurized liquid egg whites when consuming them raw. The pasteurization process kills harmful bacteria while maintaining the protein structure needed for whipping. If using eggs from shells, look specifically for eggs labeled as pasteurized, as regular eggs carry salmonella risk when consumed raw.

Making It More Indulgent

For special occasions, you can transform this protein shake into a more dessert-like treat without significantly increasing the calories. Try adding a quarter teaspoon of vanilla extract for depth, a dash of cinnamon for warmth, or a tablespoon of sugar-free chocolate chips blended in for texture. These small additions make a big difference in satisfaction while keeping the shake fitness-friendly.

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Perfect Timing

The best time to enjoy this protein shake is either post-workout or as an afternoon snack when energy typically dips. The combination of protein and small amount of caffeine provides steady energy without the crash associated with sugary coffee drinks. For morning consumption, feel free to increase the coffee to a full teaspoon if you need an extra boost to start your day.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use regular eggs instead of pasteurized liquid egg whites?

While you can separate your own egg whites from whole eggs, pasteurized liquid egg whites are strongly recommended for safety reasons, especially since this drink isn't cooked. Pasteurization eliminates the risk of salmonella while maintaining the protein quality.

→ What can I substitute for Stevia?

You can substitute Stevia with other sweeteners like monk fruit extract, erythritol, or a small amount of honey or maple syrup if you don't need it to be sugar-free. Adjust quantities to taste, as sweeteners vary in intensity.

→ How much protein is in this shake?

Using 4 egg whites (approximately 186g) provides roughly 20-22 grams of high-quality protein, making this an excellent post-workout option or protein-rich breakfast alternative.

→ Can I prepare this shake in advance?

This shake is best enjoyed immediately after preparation. The whipped egg white topping will lose its fluffiness over time, and the texture of the slush layer will change as the ice melts.

→ How can I make this shake thicker?

For a thicker consistency, you can add a frozen banana, a tablespoon of chia seeds, or a scoop of unflavored protein powder. These additions will increase the nutritional value while creating a more substantial texture.

→ Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?

Yes, you can substitute the instant coffee with 1-2 tablespoons of strong brewed coffee (cooled). This may slightly thin the consistency, so you might want to add an extra ice cube to maintain the slush texture.