There’s nothing better than that first sip of coffee in the morning.

We all have a go-to coffee concoction, but it’s time to switch it up. Here are some unique and healthy coffee recipes you can make from home. Trust me… Starbucks can’t compete with these.

Protein Coffee (Hot or Iced)

This is the perfect combination of the caffeine kick and protein boost you need to start your morning. The best part is, it only takes a few minutes to whip up.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of brewed hot coffee or cold brew

• ¼ scoop of your favorite protein (vegan or whey)

• ¼ cup milk of choice

• Ice (optional)

Instructions

1. Grab your favorite mug or glass and add your milk of choice.

2. Add in your protein powder. Mix with a rapid hand mixer until well blended.

3. Pour cold brew or brewed coffee over your protein milk.

4. Mix again with the rapid mixer.

5. Add ice (optional)

That’s all it takes to have this delicious, protein coffee. I recommend it as a morning pick me up, or even as part of your post-workout snack. Almost any protein flavor tastes great, but I suggest vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate, or birthday cake.

Glowing Skin Coffee Smoothie

Smoothies & coffee might be two of the best morning drinks. Why not combine them and give your skin a glowing boost?

Ingredients

• ½ cup ice

• ½ frozen banana

• ½ cup milk of choice

• 1 tbsp instant coffee

• 2 tbsp warm water

• 1 packet sweetener of choice

• 1 scoop collagen powder

Instructions

1. In a blender add ice, banana, and milk. Begin blending.

2. In a small cup, mix warm water with instant coffee. Pause blending.

3. Pour coffee, sweetener, and collagen into the blender.

4. Continue blending until smooth (30 seconds - 1 minute).

This recipe is super customizable so feel free to change it up every time you make it. Adding collagen powder is a great boost of protein and nourishment for your skin. Try adding a serving of nut butter for a complete, nutritious snack. Top it off with a swirl of whipped cream (because…treat yo self).  

Cloud Coffee

You don’t have to be a TikTok star to know how delicious this viral coffee recipe is. It’s another 5-minute recipe with a fun twist on your everyday cup of joe.

Ingredients

• 1tbsp instant coffee

• 1 packet sweetener of choice (sugar, Splenda, Stevia)

• 1-2 tbsp warm water

• 1 cup milk of choice

• Ice

Instructions

1. Take a cup and add warm water, instant coffee, and sweetener.

2. Mix with a whisk or rapid hand mixer for 30 seconds (until cloud-like).

3. Grab another glass and add your milk and ice.

4. Spoon out your coffee cloud onto the milk.

5. Grab a straw and enjoy.

This recipe is definitely “insta-worthy”. Try it out and tag us @auburncampusrec.

Grab a friend (or your cat), and whip up these unique coffee recipes. Who knows, maybe one will become your new favorite. Got any coffee hacks of your own? Let us know in the comments.

Be well, Auburn

Photography: Jordan K.