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Thanks, Joel! I love coffee flavored beverages, but you’re right, most of them are crap. Thanks for the healthy option! Going to try this today :)
Sue
So I’m at Starbucks getting ready to pull an all-nighter. It’s like 11:21 or something absurd like that.
Lots of college kids. Kind of reminds me of my college days…actually, that’s not true; I never went to Starbucks in college.
Anyway, you’re probably wondering why I’m a 27-year-old business owner and pulling an all-nighter. Good question. Basically, I procrastinated on something that just so happens to be due tomorrow and I have no choice but to get it done tonight. And of course, there was about ZERO chance that I’d actually get it done at the home office, so I came here.
But, here’s the cool thing: I’m working on something REALLY awesome and TOP SECRET and I’m even going to let you know what it is in a few weeks. Oooo, the anticipation.
But HEY, instead of actually doing my work, why don’t I take some time to blog about Starbucks and coffee?
You think it’s a good idea, too? Awesome. YOU’RE awesome.
So, if you’re like me, you like a good cup of coffee every so often. Or perhaps you just like coffee-flavored things (also like me), such as a White Chocolate Frappuccino (630 calories, 119 grams of sugar – but hey, it DOES have 0 grams of fat).
Fortunately, the whole point of this blog post is for me to provide you with an equally satisfying, tasty coffee-flavored icy treat, which I promise to do in just a moment.
But first, allow me to give you some advice:
Starbucks is good for:
- A change of environment for getting work done at midnight if you’re a true procrastinator like me (I also use random hotel lobbies, in which I’m not even a guest, for this purpose. Works great and makes me feel very resourceful, which I am.)
- Regular coffee (which I just ordered)
And that’s about it.
Now, don’t get me wrong. The other stuff does TASTE good (some of it really good), but it comes at the expense of lotsa calories and insulin spiking sugars. Fortunately, I have a pretty sweet (read cool – not sugary) solution for you.
One other quick thing…don’t be fooled by the “Light” options either, like the Java Chip Frappuccino Light Blended Coffee — that mofo still packs up to 300 cals and 55 grams of carbs depending on the size.
So, today, I’m here to satisfy your coffee-flavored dessert-esque beverage cravings with a much healthier alternative.
The Vanilla Cinnamon Mocha Almond Protein Smoothie (awesome name, I know)
AND, it’s only 150 calories, with 100 of those bad boys coming from lean muscle building protein. Here you go:
- 1 Scoop of Prograde Protein (the low-carb vanilla protein sweetened with Stevia)
- 1 heaping tsp of instant coffee
- 1/2 tsp of cinnamon
- 6 oz of Almond Milk (unsweetened)
- 4 oz of crushed ice
Blend (in a blender) and enjoy.
You’ll never miss a Frappuccino again.
Enjoy today’s blog? Going to try the recipe? Already tried the recipe (you action-taker, you)? Have a different opinion about Starbucks?
Respond in the comments section below! At least 40 comments and I’ll be back with at least 2 other blog posts this week. At least.
Talk to you below!
Your friend,
Joel
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45 comments - add yours
Hi Joel
Actually I hate the smell and taste of coffee BUT love the fact that you have included the link to Prograde Protein! I knew I had seen the link on a blog or newsletter somewhere but forgot to bookmark it.
What a great idea to have a protein whey naturally sweetened with stevia. I can’t wait to try it.
Thanks
Brenda
I love the green tea latte… I get it with skim milk and no syrup. As far as I know, it’s just matcha (ground tea leaves) and the hot milk… shouldn’t be too bad? I also limit all calorie-containing beverages to whatever the small size is, 95% of the time at least.
Great for taste, but I heard that you shouldn’t mix caffeine and carbs, correct?
Originally Posted By Sean
Great for taste, but I heard that you shouldn’t mix caffeine and carbs, correct?
Hey Sean, yes, caffeine can acutely hamper insulin sensitivity, but this recipe is pretty low carb as is.
Also, feel free to choose decaf instant coffee.
Originally Posted By Brenda
Hi Joel
Actually I hate the smell and taste of coffee BUT love the fact that you have included the link to Prograde Protein! I knew I had seen the link on a blog or newsletter somewhere but forgot to bookmark it.
What a great idea to have a protein whey naturally sweetened with stevia. I can’t wait to try it.Thanks
Brenda
Yeah, it’s good stuff :)
If you want a different kind of caffeine fix, try replacing water in your shake with some flavored green tea. There’s a wicked mango blend that I use; toss in some fruit, some ice, and a little extra thickener and you’re good to go.
Hey Joel, Sounds great – one problem we dont get Prograde Nutrition delivered to Dubai UAE. Chat to Jayson and get it sorted please!!!!!!!!!
Thanks — will try it in the morning otherside I will be up all night when I do not need to be.
Joy
Originally Posted By Joy
Thanks — will try it in the morning otherside I will be up all night when I do not need to be.Joy
You can also enjoy this with decaf instant coffee :)
Joel
I always thought ‘lattes’ and ‘frappes’ were for girls – surely you have a double espresso or a traditional Black americano like a man when in Starbucks!
By the way, you’d get more work done if you stayed at home and concentrated rather than loitering around hotel doorways with the ladies of the night.
Originally Posted By David
By the way, you’d get more work done if you stayed at home and concentrated rather than loitering around hotel doorways with the ladies of the night.
You are, as they say, incorrect.
You do have to socialize, so if you are in Starbucks with some friends, which Coffee drink has the Least calories, (DONT say Black Coffee, becz I cant take it)
Originally Posted By BANCHA
You do have to socialize, so if you are in Starbucks with some friends, which Coffee drink has the Least calories, (DONT say Black Coffee, becz I cant take it)
It needn’t be “black” (you can add cream/milk and non-calorie sweetener), but the answer is regular coffee — nothing else is recommended. Unless it’s post workout, I simply don’t believe you should be drinking sugar — ever.
Hi Joel I can’t deny that a cappuccino can be a lifesaver but I justify it by getting it sprinkled with cinnamon. It certainly has calories but I convince myself that they are offset by the good efffects of cinnamon and I never add sugar! Also I have the same problem with getting Prograde products so what would you suggest as an alternative in you recipe?
Nice recipe Joel. I’m having some second thoughts about coffee. I used to drink it very rarely and use it as an occasional pre-workout stimulant. I could really feel the effect.
Now, I drink more tea and some coffee regularly, and it does nothing for me pre-workout. I think I should go back to avoiding all caffeine and just keep it as stimulant for when it is really needed.
My problem is: What to eat ?!? I go to Starbucks in the pm, have an attack of the munchies to go with my skinny latte..and next thing you know I am walking out with a low fat (not) lemon poppyseed muffin. Ok. Please tell me ONE muffin won’t be a disaster…..
That smoothie recipe sounds awesome! I will have to try that! I am from Canada…are you able to buy the prograde protein here too? If not, is there another that is low grade and sweetened with Stevia? Thanks again for the recipe!
Hey Joel,
I have no problem drinking my coffee black, usually do. But, occasionally, like anyone else, I get a sweet tooth. Where in the heck do you get almond milk???
Hey Joel, I love this post – not even for the content! Just for the smile it put on my face :) Without wanting to sound like a gushy groupie or something (which I am NOT!) – this really made me feel good! It’s great to read something so light-hearted and fuuunnny! :) lol..
I usually drink just black Morning Blend from Starbucks,no sugar,no milk
with a dash of cinnamon.
Recently tried their new spinach feta wrap.
It is wholewheat wrap with eggwhites,spinach and roasted tomatoes slightly toasted.It tastes yammy.
Don’t know how many calories in it thou.
I love this recipe! Thanks Joel! One question no, two. Can one use coffee substitutes such as Roma, and or Inka, to make this recipe? Secondly, what’s the difference between Pro-Grade protine and others? I plan to try the recipe using the coffee substitute. I wish Star Bucks was open after about 10:30 or 11:00 here, as I like your solutions to get work done in a different location. Best wishes.
Hi, Joel!
This is a tasty recipe, but while Prograde is definitely a fantastic protein powder, it’s far more expensive than Jay Robb’s whey protein powders, which are comparable in texture, nutrition and flavor, just much cheaper in price. Also, I can pick it up at my local Vitamin Shoppe for cheaper than he sells it on his website. You may want to consider being an affiliate with him!
Just a thought!
Hi Joel,
Good stuff and i like the taste :) first thing i did was looking for the recipe and stoped reading the blod^^ but now after reading the blog i have to say I NEVER GO INTO STARBUCKS lol i kinda hate this store (ok just in germany they are diffrent than in the US) but they defenetly should add the “Vanilla Cinnamon Mocha Almond Protein Smoothie” :)
wishes from germany björn :)
Joel – this drink is incredible!!!
You are absolutely right – tastes just as good as something from starbucks and it’s hardly any calories, most of which are protein!!
Such a simple but awesome idea
Thanks loads!
By the way – it’s pretty good with chocolate protein too :)
Wow, never tasted anything like that here in scotland! Great recipe! thanks
Originally Posted By David
Hi Joel I can’t deny that a cappuccino can be a lifesaver but I justify it by getting it sprinkled with cinnamon. It certainly has calories but I convince myself that they are offset by the good efffects of cinnamon and I never add sugar! Also I have the same problem with getting Prograde products so what would you suggest as an alternative in you recipe?
You can use another vanilla (or as someone else mentioned, chocolate) low-carb whey. While not quite as good, you gotta work with what is available!
Originally Posted By nick
Nice recipe Joel. I’m having some second thoughts about coffee. I used to drink it very rarely and use it as an occasional pre-workout stimulant. I could really feel the effect.
Now, I drink more tea and some coffee regularly, and it does nothing for me pre-workout. I think I should go back to avoiding all caffeine and just keep it as stimulant for when it is really needed.
Doesn’t sound like a bad plan at all, Nick. When you use a substance regularly, including caffeine, your body tends to build up a tolerance and the effects (at those that you “feel”) become lessened.
If you cut it out of your regular use, you’d probably get quite a kick when using it for an occasional boost.
Joel
Originally Posted By rquesty
My problem is: What to eat ?!? I go to Starbucks in the pm, have an attack of the munchies to go with my skinny latte..and next thing you know I am walking out with a low fat (not) lemon poppyseed muffin. Ok. Please tell me ONE muffin won’t be a disaster…..
Is there a particular reason why you’re choosing Starbucks as a place to dine?
Bring some nuts…
Originally Posted By Debbie
That smoothie recipe sounds awesome! I will have to try that! I am from Canada…are you able to buy the prograde protein here too? If not, is there another that is low grade and sweetened with Stevia? Thanks again for the recipe!
Yes, you can get Prograde shipped to Canada. Check out the link I provided in the recipe.
Originally Posted By Teresa
Hey Joel,
I have no problem drinking my coffee black, usually do. But, occasionally, like anyone else, I get a sweet tooth. Where in the heck do you get almond milk???
It’s available at most grocery stores. Look for Blue Diamond Almond Breeze.
Originally Posted By Anna
Hey Joel, I love this post – not even for the content! Just for the smile it put on my face :) Without wanting to sound like a gushy groupie or something (which I am NOT!) – this really made me feel good! It’s great to read something so light-hearted and fuuunnny! :) lol..
Thanks Anna – I try to keep it light all around :)
Take care,
Joel
Originally Posted By Neena Saloiya
I love this recipe! Thanks Joel! One question no, two. Can one use coffee substitutes such as Roma, and or Inka, to make this recipe? Secondly, what’s the difference between Pro-Grade protine and others? I plan to try the recipe using the coffee substitute. I wish Star Bucks was open after about 10:30 or 11:00 here, as I like your solutions to get work done in a different location. Best wishes.
The coffee substitutes sound fine, although I’m honestly not too familiar with them.
Prograde is a high quality whey isolate, sweetened with Stevia, and cold processed (instead of heat processed, which denatures the protein and amino acid profile due to the high heat). So it’s a very high quality protein processed in a very high quality way sweetened with a very high quality natural sweetener :)
@Jack –
Thanks, Jack!
Ha, Sean, thanks for the heads-up on caffeine and carbs, and Joel, thanks for the clarification on HOW that works. I’ve been trying a fat burner and got the idea it caused massive carb cravings. I derailed, crashed and burned my whole diet worse than the whole year before, AND felt so tired and burned-out, I was thinking it’s CNS exhaustion. Had to take a diet and exercise break. Not pretty. Was just debating if I should start the fat burners again now that I’m going back on the wagon, but after reading this, I’ll toss them. Same goes for the workout drink that contains guarana. THANKS GUYS!
I do have a different opinion of Starbucks. “Normal” “plain” coffee is awful. Sorry but I am Italian :-) and I know the real thing.
Cheers
Marco
Can’t wait to try this – I love either an espresso “Lite” or Mocha Lite Frappuccino. I am not a big coffee drinker as far as all the latte, flat whites etc – I like mine black and have now cut out all sweetner!!
Thanks for all you heilp – I enjoy your style and read and let it all sink in.
cheers
Jan
That sounds really good, will have to try it soon. I personally am not a huge coffee fan, my passion lies in Starbucks Chai Tea Lattes with Soy milk.
Originally Posted By Christina
Ha, Sean, thanks for the heads-up on caffeine and carbs, and Joel, thanks for the clarification on HOW that works. I’ve been trying a fat burner and got the idea it caused massive carb cravings. I derailed, crashed and burned my whole diet worse than the whole year before, AND felt so tired and burned-out, I was thinking it’s CNS exhaustion. Had to take a diet and exercise break. Not pretty. Was just debating if I should start the fat burners again now that I’m going back on the wagon, but after reading this, I’ll toss them. Same goes for the workout drink that contains guarana. THANKS GUYS!
No problem, Christina – glad you found it helpful!
Caffeine is a tricky subject…it has some definite benefits and also some drawbacks. I think when used pre-workout it’s OK as the body is just so primed to suck up carbs after an intense workout that I don’t think a little caffeine is going to negate that, at least not substantially.
That said, it’s certainly an individual thing on how the substance makes you “feel”.
Joel
Hey, I do this drink every day. I mix it up with other spices and also use agave necter to sweeten it up. Try a little almond extract in it YUMMMMM…..!! And just to plug Starbucks the instant coffees are wonderful!!
you know what else works well. . . 4 – 6 oz of chilled espresso (depending on your caffeine needs) dilute to a total of 6 oz with milk, 1 cup of ice, 1 scoop of flavored protein powder, blend. If you use white chocolate, dark chocolate or mocha flavored it is a great tasting – caffeine packed – treat.
It’s pretty awesome having nutrition as my life. I always tell people when they ask me what kind of supplements to take. Start with the basics and get some whey protein as a body building supplement then if you want, try an EFA stack for weight loss. As always throw in a multivitamin.
As someone mentioned above, matcha (stone ground Japanese green tea powder) is excellent with steamed milk and sweetened however you wish; it’s also great as a smoothie, especially when you throw a banana in with the milk and matcha! Since you’re drinking the actual tea leaves it’s especially healthy.
Hi Joel! Great recipe. I didn’t have the prograde vanilla, but I did have prograde lean (chocolate flavor). It tasted great. Are there any drawbacks to using the lean instead of the low carb vanilla? Would this also be great as a post workout shake? Thanks for sharing this and please keep the shake ideas coming!
Jessica
Harman Toor on 
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Hey, it’s Joel! So you want to know a little more about me, huh? Well, I’d be happy to oblige :-)
I guess it all started back in 2001 (my freshman year of college) when I was just a “skinny fat” 19-year old kid. At the time, I was spending close to 2 hours a day in the gym (now my workouts last about 30 minutes), and despite my efforts, you’d probably never guess I worked out a day in my life by looking at me...