Two deer recently stumbled across my yard and into my garden. Later that day I stumbled upon the best protein shake recipe and it includes coffee!

I've heard of people using coffee in protein shakes in the past, but I never experimented with it until recently. On the first try, I created this magical protein shake that I'm extremely excited to share with you.

My favorite protein shake ingredients

As per usual, I want to give you a few tips on the ingredients and recommend my favorite brands. This is not a sponsored post.

Almond milk is extremely easy to make on your own and a highly recommend it as a waste free alternative to store bought milk. I soak one cup of almonds for 1-3 hours, rinse, and blend with three cups of water. I prefer my almond milk pure, but you can sweeten it with honey, maple syrup or vanilla.

I usually add one shot of espresso to this recipe, but I wanted to point out that I always use half caffeinated and half decaffeinated coffee beans in my espresso machine.

Ever since I was introduced to Primal Kitchen Vanilla Protein, I can't stop eating it. I use it in my protein shakes, whipped cream and protein balls! It's also a delicious add on to any acai bowl.

I recently discovered Fat Fuel cocoa and it has also been a simple game changer to my recipes. Just like my favorite protein powder, Fat Fuel cocoa powder has the right mix of nutrients and flavor that turn this protein shake into a desert!

When I meal prep once or twice a week, I do my best to cut a few bananas and freeze them in a mason jar so that they're always ready for a quick recipe. I personally enjoy the texture and temperature of frozen bananas in my recipes and the convenience of prepping them once a week. 

If you're new or exploring deeper into healthy recipes, you may keep hearing about canned coconut milk and what exactly it is. I totally was there! Canned coconut milk literally comes in a can like this and has both liquid and solid milk inside of each can. It's also a simple game changer to any coffee or protein shake due to its creamy texture.

I use slow melting ice chunks in all of my iced coffee and protein shakes for the added chill. I find that they melt slower and add less water and more chill to my drinks which I prefer.

Finally, when it comes to presentation and consuming my shakes, I prefer to use a metal straw and drink out of a clear mason jar. I find this convenient to consume and clean. The preference on the metal straw is the fact that it's waste free and convenient. I've used paper straws in the past, and although some are cute, they can't be reused and often get soggy before I'm finished with my drink.