A cup of coffee is how many people kick off their mornings. It is a simple ritual that helps you wake up and feel ready for the day. Lately, there is a trend to make your morning coffee more filling and satisfying. Many are adding butter and MCT oil or mixing in protein powder for an extra boost.
Both bulletproof coffee and protein coffee have become popular among those looking for something different in their morning drink. Some follow the bulletproof diet and enjoy butter coffee as part of a keto or low-carb routine. Others prefer a protein-based coffee drink to match their lifestyle and taste preferences.
Wondering how these two trendy drinks stack up? Below, you’ll find what makes each unique, how they compare, and which one may help fit your daily routine best. The goal is to give you simple and clear information so that you can enjoy your healthy breakfast choice with confidence.
What Is Bulletproof Coffee?
Bulletproof coffee is a cup of coffee blended with unsalted grass-fed butter and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, often from coconut oil. It was created by Dave Asprey and became popular with people following a keto diet or low-carb lifestyle. The drink is high-fat and is often used as a meal replacement in the morning.
Some people drink bulletproof coffee for its creamy texture and because it may help them feel full and increase energy during fasting or busy mornings. While many enjoy it as part of their morning coffee routine, it is also high in saturated fat, so it may not suit everyone’s dietary needs.
What Is Protein Coffee (Proffee)?
Protein coffee, also called “proffee,” is a coffee drink made by mixing protein powder or a ready-to-drink protein shake with your regular brew. It’s trendy on social media and is popular with fitness enthusiasts and people looking for a more filling morning drink.
Many enjoy putting protein powder into coffee because it combines caffeine with added protein and may help cut down on sugary creamers. It’s a simple option for those who skip breakfast or want an easy way to boost their drink without making complicated changes.
Bulletproof Coffee vs Protein Coffee: Key Differences

Both drinks have unique features. Looking at them side by side helps you see which one matches your needs and preferences.
1. Nutrition and Calories
A cup of bulletproof coffee is a high-fat coffee made with butter and MCT oil. It is high in calories and saturated fats, which may increase your overall fat intake. For some, on a healthy diet, this fits into a keto coffee plan where the body produces ketone energy.
In contrast, coffee with protein focuses on adding protein to help meet your protein goals. It is usually lower in calories than butter coffee and often easier to include in balanced coffee recipes without replacing a full meal.
2. Satiety and Energy
The benefits of bulletproof coffee often include feeling full for longer. The added healthy fats and MCT oil, also known as butter coffee, can boost your energy and keep hunger away during fasting or busy mornings.
Protein coffee can also help with satiety, but does so differently. When you add protein powder to your morning brew, it can support fat loss efforts or weight loss plans by helping control cravings while keeping energy steady.
3. Who They Work Best For
Bulletproof coffee provides an option for those following low-carb or keto lifestyles. It can work as a breakfast substitute for people who enjoy its taste and fat-based energy.
Protein coffee suits a wider range of people. It’s ideal for those who want to keep their healthy diet balanced while enjoying caffeine. It also works well if you want a lighter drink that won’t replace meals but still helps you reach your protein goals.
4. Downsides of Each Drink to Consider
Bulletproof coffee offers little variety of nutrients if it replaces a full meal. It is also high in saturated fat, which may increase cholesterol levels for some people.
Protein coffee should not be used as a full meal. Choose quality powders, as some contain artificial sweeteners or additives that reduce their value.
How to Make Bulletproof Coffee and Protein Coffee
Both drinks are simple to prepare with the right steps. Here’s how:
Bulletproof coffee:
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Brew a fresh cup of coffee.
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Add unsalted butter and MCT oil. These are a type of fat with a shorter chain length, which can be easily digested and absorbed.
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Place all ingredients in a cup or blender.
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Blend until creamy and frothy. Many coffee drinkers prefer it mixed in a blender for a smoother texture.
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Drink while warm. This can increase your energy levels and keep you fuller in the morning, but remember it is high in fat and best enjoyed in moderation.
Protein coffee:
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Start with iced or warm coffee.
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Add a scoop of protein powder or use a ready-to-drink protein shake.
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Stir or blend until smooth.
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If you want to mix protein powder into hot drinks like coffee or matcha, start with a small amount of room-temperature liquid to avoid clumps. This makes the powder dissolve evenly.
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Choose quality protein powders like protein options without unnecessary additives for better results.
Are You More Into Protein Coffee? Here’s How to Choose the Right Powder
If protein coffee sounds like your style, picking the right powder can make a big difference. Here are some simple tips:
1. Check the Ingredients: Look for short, clean labels. Avoid powders with excess sugar, artificial sweeteners, or unnecessary additives.
2. Pick What Fits Your Diet: Choose plant-based or whey depending on your needs. Vegan blends often mix well and can be easier to digest for many people.
3. Look for Added Benefits: Some powders include probiotics, fiber, or healthy fats that may help improve digestion and keep you fuller longer.
4. Watch Protein Content: Check grams per serving to ensure it supports your protein goals without going over what you need.
5. Test for Mixability: A good powder should dissolve smoothly when you add a scoop to iced or warm drinks.
Choosing a clean, quality powder makes protein coffee more enjoyable and helps it fit better into your daily routine.
Wrapping Up: Finding Your Coffee Upgrade

Both bulletproof coffee and protein coffee bring their own benefits to the table. Each offers a different way to make your morning cup more satisfying, whether through added fats or extra protein. The best choice depends on what matches your taste and supports your routine.
Think about your lifestyle and goals when deciding. Some enjoy the rich texture and fat-based energy of bulletproof coffee. Others like the convenience of protein coffee as a lighter boost that pairs well with whole foods. Neither option has to be all or nothing; you can experiment and see what feels right for you.
If you prefer protein coffee, choose a clean and simple powder. A vegan, organic, plant-based option like EarthChimp mixes smoothly in hot or cold drinks and fits easily into a balanced lifestyle without unnecessary additives.
FAQs About Bulletproof and Protein Coffee
Can You Drink Both Bulletproof Coffee And Protein Coffee In The Same Day?
Yes, it’s okay to have both in one day, but it’s good to consider your overall caloric and macronutrient intake. Please choose the one that best fits your dietary needs and enjoy them at different times without replacing balanced meals.
Do You Need To Be On A Keto Diet To Enjoy Bulletproof Coffee?
No, you don’t have to follow a keto diet. Bulletproof coffee may work for anyone who enjoys the taste and creamy texture. Just remember it is high in fats and calories, so balance it with other foods.
Can Protein Coffee Replace Pre- Or Post-Workout Shakes?
Yes, protein coffee can work as a pre- or post-workout drink. It gives caffeine and protein in one. Make sure the amount of protein matches your workout and daily needs.
What Are Some Easy Flavor Ideas To Make Protein Coffee Taste Better Without Extra Sugar?
You can add cinnamon, unsweetened cocoa powder, or vanilla extract. These options boost flavor without adding sugar or calories.
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Disclaimer:
This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.