Starbucks Protein Cold Foam Copycat Recipe
Introduction
This Starbucks Protein Cold Foam copycat recipe is a creamy, frothy topping perfect for iced coffee or cold brew. It combines rich cream, protein powder, and a touch of vanilla for a delicious, protein-packed treat that’s easy to make at home.

Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons half & half (or milk + a splash of cream)
- ½–1 tablespoon vanilla syrup (or to taste if using sweetened whey protein)
- 2 tablespoons unflavored whey protein powder (or vanilla protein powder if using less syrup)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small cup or frothing pitcher, combine the heavy cream, half and half, vanilla syrup, and protein powder.
- Step 2: Use a handheld milk frother for 20–30 seconds, or shake vigorously in a sealed jar until the mixture becomes thick, foamy, and silky.
- Step 3: Adjust the foam’s consistency by adding a splash of half and half if it is too thick, or froth again for a few more seconds if it is too thin.
- Step 4: Spoon or pour the protein cold foam over iced coffee or cold brew and enjoy immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For a sweeter foam, increase the vanilla syrup or use a flavored protein powder like vanilla or caramel.
- If you don’t have a milk frother, shaking the ingredients vigorously in a tightly sealed jar works well too.
- Try using almond milk or oat milk instead of half and half for a dairy-free version, though the foam may be less thick.
Storage
The protein cold foam is best enjoyed fresh for the best texture and flavor. If you have leftovers, store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Re-froth gently before use, though the foam may not be as airy after storage.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use flavored protein powder instead of unflavored?
Yes, flavored protein powders like vanilla work well, just reduce or omit the vanilla syrup accordingly to avoid too much sweetness.
Will this foam work with hot coffee?
This cold foam is designed for iced coffee or cold brew, as the temperature helps maintain its texture. It may melt quickly on hot coffee.
Print
Starbucks Protein Cold Foam Copycat Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Description
This Starbucks Protein Cold Foam Copycat recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and protein-packed foam perfect for topping your iced coffee or cold brew. Made with a blend of heavy cream, half and half, vanilla syrup, and unflavored or vanilla whey protein powder, this frothy delight adds a silky texture and boost of protein while mimicking the signature foam you enjoy at Starbucks.
Ingredients
Protein Cold Foam
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons half & half (or milk plus a splash of cream)
- ½ to 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup (adjust to taste, or omit if using sweetened whey protein)
- 2 tablespoons unflavored whey protein powder (or vanilla protein powder if using less syrup)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small cup or frothing pitcher, add the heavy cream, half and half, vanilla syrup, and protein powder together to prepare the base mixture.
- Froth the Mixture: Use a handheld milk frother for 20–30 seconds, or alternatively, place the mixture in a sealed jar and shake vigorously until the contents become thick, foamy, and silky smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: If the foam turns out too thick, add a splash of half and half to thin it out; if too thin, froth it again for a few more seconds to achieve the desired texture.
- Serve: Spoon or pour the prepared protein cold foam over your iced coffee or cold brew. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy foam at its best.
Notes
- Use vanilla whey protein powder if you prefer less syrup for sweeter foam.
- The texture can be customized by adjusting the amount of half and half or frothing time.
- This foam is best served fresh and immediately after preparation.
- You can substitute half and half with milk and adjust cream accordingly, but heavy cream adds richness.
- For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream and a compatible dairy-free protein powder.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Starbucks copycat, protein cold foam, iced coffee topping, whey protein foam, creamy cold foam, coffee hack

