Poosh
We all have our go-to drinks at Starbucks. An iced matcha with Cold Foam when a morning calls for a morale boost? Obviously. A Vanilla Latte when the vibes need a lift? Say less.
And now Starbucks is helping us hit our protein goals, too. The brand just launched the swole version of many beloved beverages: Protein Lattes and Protein Cold Foam drinks, now available nationwide.
Each grande contains between 15 to 36 grams of protein. You can add a protein-packed version of their iconic Cold Foam (in a variety of flavors) on top of any cold coffee. You can also sub in protein-boosted milk (crafted fresh daily with 2% milk and whey protein powder) in anything on the menu that contains non-dairy or dairy milk.
But…did they manage to add in that much protein without sacrificing flavor or texture? Is banana and cold brew a pairing that should exist?
There was only one way to find out: we sent our social media manager Julie and senior experiential marketing manager Lindsay to Starbucks to try a few of the buzziest flavors.
1. Iced Banana Cream Protein Matcha
Protein in a grande: around 24 grams
“Going into the tasting I was a little worried about the banana flavor being overpowering, especially since matcha already has a bold taste. But the banana wasn’t overwhelming at all! It added a nice sweetness and a bit of pizazz to your standard matcha.” —Julie
“This one was by far my favorite. I love how the flavors and textures are layered. First you get the sweetness and thickness from the foam, and then the earthiness of the matcha comes through. They balance each other perfectly.” —Lindsay
2. Cold Brew with Protein Cold Foam
Protein in a grande: around 15 grams
We tried cold brew topped with two different flavors of Protein Cold Foam.
Banana
“This isn’t an official beverage in the sense that you won’t find it on the menu, but it is one of the customizations you can make. Banana and cold brew are two things I’d never think to combine—banana has such a vibrant flavor—but this combo works surprisingly well.” —Julie
“This tastes like topping off your coffee with a banana milkshake. It’s unexpected, but it adds a fun, creamy sweetness that makes cold brew feel new.” —Lindsay
Chocolate
“The chocolate is really fudgy. It tastes like you’re drinking a literal fudge bar (in the best way).” —Julie
“This is the perfect post-workout treat. It’s sweet and chocolatey, but the cold brew’s depth keeps it balanced and energizing.” —Lindsay
3. Iced Sugar-Free Vanilla Protein Latte
Protein in a grande: around 29 grams
“This one felt familiar and comforting. Like, I would drink this all the time.” —Julie
“If you’re not craving something ultra-creamy, this is the lighter option. Smooth, easy to sip, with just a touch more body from the protein milk. Honestly, if I hadn’t known it had protein in it, I never would’ve guessed.” —Lindsay
Starbucks has officially entered its protein era—and honestly, we’re whey into it. (Pun always intended.)
The content provided in this article is provided for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice and consultation, including professional medical advice and consultation; it is provided with the understanding that Poosh, LLC (“Poosh”) is not engaged in the provision or rendering of medical advice or services. You understand and agree that Poosh shall not be liable for any claim, loss, or damage arising out of the use of, or reliance upon any content or information in the article.
