Starbucks offers a variety of delicious drinks for any day of the year.

Although many people think their drinks do not contain much protein, Starbucks has many drink options with a significant amount of it.

Starbucks protein drinks include the pistachio latte, toasted white hot chocolate, skinny cinnamon dolce latte, and chai tea latte. These drinks contain a decent amount of protein due to the dairy products used.

While these drinks are not substantial enough to be a protein supplement, they still offer a decent amount of protein in each serving.

In this article, I’ll review all the high protein Starbucks drinks. Additionally, I’ll cover what ingredients are in each one.

Let’s begin!

1. Pistachio latte

The pistachio latte is a newer favorite that is sure to become a classic with time. It first appeared on the menu in the winter of 2021 as a seasonal delight.

After many positive reviews and requests, the drink returned for an extended time.

This delicious latte contains 12 grams (0.42 ounces) of protein in a standard grande size drink. The protein comes from two key ingredients:

  • Condensed nonfat milk makes up the drink’s base
  • Pistachio butter gives the drink its tasty, earthy flavor

Nonfat milk contains the same amount of protein as other dairy kinds.

If you wanted your pistachio latte substituted with a different type of milk, you would still have around the same amount of protein.

Alpro almond milk.

Additionally, the pistachio butter comprises a small number of crushed pistachio nuts.

Pistachios are regarded as a great source of protein and help give this latte a healthy boost. (Source)

You can also order the pistachio latte as an iced coffee. The iced pistachio latte contains the same ingredients found in the hot version of this coffee, including nonfat milk and pistachio butter.

However, the iced latte only has 9 grams (0.31 ounces) of protein instead of the 12 grams (0.42 ounces) in the hot latte.

To learn more about what makes hot and cold lattes similar and different, check out my article on the best latte temperature.

2. Starbucks Reserve latte

The Starbucks Reserve latte is like a traditional one but is brewed with the company’s personalized blend.

According to Starbucks, this blend is intended to include intense flavors representing a sense of inspiration and connection to the world around us.

The inside of a Starbucks Reserve.
Inside a Starbucks Reserve

Made with nothing but the Starbucks Reserve brand of espresso and steamed milk, this latte is simple in components yet extravagant in flavor.

It retains a sweet, earthly, and nutty taste.

In terms of protein content, this drink has a total of 12 grams (0.42 ounces) per grande size cup.

This amount comes from the milk that’s included. This protein amount will change depending on the overall size of the cup that you order.

You can order the Starbucks Reserve iced latte if you prefer to drink your coffee cold.

This is the same recipe used for the hot drink, except it is instead served over ice.

Additionally, one less gram of protein in a grande serving sets the total of this version at 11 grams (0.38 ounces).

3. Cinnamon dolce latte

If you want a Starbucks protein drink with a hint of spice, then the cinnamon dolce latte is meant for you.

This drink combines sweet sugars and fragrant spices for a flavorful drink combination.

The cinnamon dolce latte contains 12 grams (0.42 ounces) of protein per grande serving.

Homemade cinnamon dolce latte.

This protein comes from the milk and whipped cream used to create the drink.

While this drink has a decent amount of protein, it also has a decent amount of sugar and should not be an everyday replacement for protein drinks.

It has 40 grams (1.41 ounces) of sugar per average serving, yet this can be reduced with the size and removal of the whipped cream.

4. Skinny cinnamon dolce latte

If you’re looking for a drink with the same spice flavors as the original cinnamon dolce latte but still filled with the same amount of protein, then you can order the skinny cinnamon dolce latte.

Made with all the same milk as the regular, the skinny cinnamon dolce latte has 12 grams (0.42 ounces) of protein in a grande serving.

Additionally, it has less sugar and fat than the cinnamon dolce latte. The values can be seen in the following table:

Nutrition valueCinnamon dolce latteSkinny cinnamon dolce latte
Protein12 grams (0.42 ounces)12 grams (0.42 ounces)
Sugar17 milligrams (0.00059 ounces)40 milligrams (0.0014 ounces)
Fat0 grams14 grams (0.49 ounces)

While the original cinnamon dolce latte has whipped cream, the skinny cinnamon dolce latte does not.

Regardless, both contain the same amount of protein. This Starbucks drink can also be ordered hot or iced.

5. Starbucks Reserve hazelnut bianco latte

Made with the same espresso from the Starbucks Reserve collection, the Starbucks Reserve hazelnut bianco latte is a nutty twist on the traditional latte.

This latte has 13 grams (0.45 ounces) of protein in every grande serving. This amount is taken from the milk used in the mixing process.

However, this milk is slightly different from the one used in the Starbucks Reserve latte because it is instead infused directly with hazelnut-praline flavors.

This beverage is also available as an iced latte. However, like many other iced drinks on their menu, this drink does have slightly less protein.

Instead of 13 grams (0.45 ounces), the Starbucks Reserve iced hazelnut bianco latte only has 10 grams (0.35 ounces) per grande serving.

6. Pumpkin spice latte

A classic and highly anticipated fall favorite, the pumpkin spice latte has been one of the most popular seasonal drinks.

Its tasty mixture of spices like clove and cinnamon brings a sense of comfort every time it’s chilly out.

Pumpkin spice latte, ready to drink.

This drink contains 14 whole grams (0.49 ounces) of protein in a grande serving. The protein in this drink comes from:

  • Condensed skim milk and cream make up the base of the drink.
  • A pumpkin puree mixture is used to give it a fun fall flavor.

An important thing to consider when ordering this drink for the protein value is that while the pumpkin puree and juices boost the protein, they also increase the sugar content.

The pumpkin spice latte contains 50 grams (1.76 ounces) of sugar, though this may vary based on the ordered size and if there is a whipped topping.

It is available if you want to try this Starbucks drink in an iced version. However, it has a little less protein at only 11 grams (0.38 ounces) in a grande serving.

7. Chestnut praline latte

The chestnut praline latte is another seasonal holiday favorite with a good amount of protein.

Made with a mix of salty and sweet flavors, the chestnut praline latte has various flavors that make it a delicious choice.

With 12 grams (0.42 ounces) of protein in a grande serving, this drink has a substantial amount of protein primarily due to the included dairy products.

The ingredients responsible for the protein in this delicious drink include:

  • Steamed milk to mix the coffee for the latte.
  • Whipped cream at the top of the drinks for additional sweetness. 

Because this drink is a winter seasonal drink, you may not be able to find it all year round.

However, when available, the drink will surely be a protein-packed treat when served.

8. Starbucks blonde vanilla latte

If you want a cup of coffee with protein without the strong taste of coffee getting in the way, then you’ll want to consider the Starbucks blonde vanilla latte.

Starbucks blonde coffee is a unique blend of coffee that is roasted less than its other types.

This makes for a unique and fresh flavor that isn’t too bold. Instead, the coffee has a sweet taste that resonates.

Starbucks blonde roast.

This drink only uses three core ingredients:

This delicious latte contains 12 grams (0.42 ounces) of protein in a grande serving.

The steamed whole milk in the mixture gives it that considerable protein boost. Other kinds of milk are available for substitutions if you do not desire dairy milk.

9. Caffé mocha

The caffé mocha is a chocolate-flavored coffee drink made with a variety of delicious ingredients, including:

  • Freshly brewed espresso
  • Rich cocoa powder
  • Steamed milk
  • Sweetened whip cream to serve as the top garnish

This Starbucks protein drink contains 14 grams (0.42 ounces) of protein from the various dairy-based ingredients used in the drink’s base and topping.

Mocha coffee.

This drink is a delightful treat. However, it should be noted that it also contains a significant amount of sugar from the various syrups and whipped cream applied to it.

If you’re looking for a different, healthier option, try out the skinny mocha, which has the same delicious taste, amount of protein, and less sugar content.

10. Skinny mocha

Like the traditional caffé mocha, the skinny mocha has all the same flavors but contains slightly more protein.

With 14 grams (0.42 ounces) of protein in a grande serving, this mocha has the exact amount of protein compared to the classic caffé mocha.

This higher protein comes from the milk used as the drink’s main component.

Additionally, the skinny mocha has much less sugar and fat than the standard caffé. The values are compared in the following table:

Nutrition valueCaffé mochaSkinny mocha
Protein14 grams (0.49 ounces)14 grams (0.49 ounces)
Sugar35 milligrams (0.0012 ounces)15 milligrams (0.00052 ounces)
Fat15 grams (0.52 ounces)1.5 grams (0.05 ounces)

The skinny mocha is a sweet and creamy drink with a lot of protein.

Additionally, if you want to make it even healthier, you can find similar protein values by substituting dairy products for soy.

11. White chocolate mocha

If you prefer a lighter and sweeter drink but do not want to skip out on chocolate entirely, try the white chocolate mocha.

This drink contains 15 grams (0.52 ounces) of protein in a single grande serving. This is one more gram than the caffé mocha and the skinny mocha.

This amount comes from dairy products such as condensed milk and whip cream.

The white chocolate mocha also contains cocoa butter and coconut oil in the white chocolate mocha sauce.

Homemade white chocolate sauce.

These inclusions do not significantly affect the protein, yet they will also raise the fat content of this drink compared to other mochas.

12. Hot chocolate

Another warm winter favorite that qualifies as a Starbucks protein drink is the famous hot chocolate, a massive hit with those who aren’t fans of coffee.

This drink has all the flavors of a mocha with just a tiny amount of caffeine because of these ingredients:

  • A sweet chocolate-flavored sauce
  • Vanilla syrup
  • Steamed milk
  • A dollop of whip cream coated in even more chocolate

This drink has 14 whole grams (0.49 ounces) of protein in a grande serving. The amount comes from two main dairy components of the drink: the milk and the whipped cream.

The milk is used to mix the cocoa-based mocha sauce and syrups to give it that chocolate flavor.

A dark chocolate bar.

The whipped cream sits on top of the drink to add an extra bit of sweetness and an extra bit of protein.

Dairy products comprise most of the drink, so a lot of protein is packed in a single mug.

While this drink has many proteins, it should be known that it is not a suitable supplement for every day.

13. Toasted white hot chocolate

Like the delicious traditional hot chocolate, Starbucks offers a different and sweeter twist on the classic beverage.

This drink is known as toasted white hot chocolate, which uses white chocolate in the base instead of the regular chocolate mocha sauce.

Like the original, the toasted white hot chocolate contains a decent amount of protein. With 15 grams (0.52 ounces) of protein in a single grande size cup, this drink has one extra gram.

This amount is because of all the dairy products inside and on top of the finished drink.

For the base, the toasted white hot chocolate uses the same amount of milk during preparation as the hot chocolate.

However, it also uses an additional amount of condensed skim milk in the white chocolate mocha sauce that is utilized for the creamy and sweet flavor of the drink.

The drink is also topped with their regular whipped cream and a light sprinkle of crunchy sugar toppings to give it a little extra sweetness.

With all these ingredients mixed, you get more protein than you would if you just ordered their hot chocolate.

14. White hot chocolate

The white hot chocolate is almost precisely like the toasted white hot chocolate except for a few key differences:

  • No mocha-flavored syrup
  • No additional sugar toppings

However, both types of white hot chocolate share the same sweet and creamy flavor that brings a sense of comfort when the weather turns cold.

Along with identical flavors, the drink includes the same amount of protein in each grande serving.

The white hot chocolate contains 15 grams (0.52 ounces) of protein, though this may fluctuate with a change in cup sizes or if you request a sprinkle of the sugar topping at an extra charge.

15. Cappuccino

As a Starbucks classic, this drink combines espresso and steamed, frothy milk to create a delicious drink for any morning occasion. It’s easy to prepare and is a simple yet elegant drink.

Despite these two ingredients, this drink has a decent amount of protein. Because of the inclusion of milk, a cappuccino from Starbucks has 9 grams (0.31 ounces) of protein.

Homemade cappuccino.

It’s very common for customers to want to change the type of milk in this coffee-based drink.

Many substitutions are available, including dairy-based and non-dairy kinds of milk.

A cappuccino is very similar to a drink known as the flat white. Check out my flat white vs. cappuccino article to learn more about what separates these two.

16. Flat white

The flat white is a delicious drink Starbucks offers that is both flavorful and simple.

This crafted drink is one of the more recent items on the menu. However, it has quickly become a very popular pick.

Homemade flat white.

The flat white is a Starbucks drink with 9 grams (0.31 ounces) of protein in a single grande serving. This protein content comes from the milk base.

Starbucks also offers an almond milk-based flat white version for those who do not want dairy milk included.

This will lower the drink’s protein content slightly even if the order’s size is increased to a larger one.

17. Caffé misto

If you’re looking for a Starbucks protein drink similar to your everyday cup of coffee, try out the caffé misto.

With 7 grams (0.24 ounces) of protein in a standard grande size, this classic cup is only made up of two ingredients:

  • Freshly brewed coffee
  • Steamed milk

The coffee is brewed and poured like a regular cup of coffee. However, the coffee is topped with a generous amount of freshly steamed milk containing all the protein.

It’s a delicious drink to get your morning going, and it doesn’t have any sugars, sweeteners, or extra toppings (unless you choose to add some yourself).

18. Matcha tea latte

When most people think of matcha tea, their first thought may not immediately think of it being served as a latte.

However, Starbucks has a popular matcha tea latte, a bold drink with a lot of protein.

Matcha is a common type of green tea that has a lot of caffeine and nutrients in it. It’s found in many beverages because it is a healthier replacement for traditional coffee.

In a Starbucks matcha tea latte, there are only three main ingredients that combine to create this refreshing drink:

  • Steamed milk
  • Sugar
  • Freshly brewed matcha tea

A total of 12 grams (0.42 ounces) of protein in a single grande cup comes from the milk and matcha tea powder.

You can also order the matcha tea latte as an iced drink.

The iced matcha tea latte only has 9 grams (0.31 ounces) of protein, but this is still more than many other non-coffee-based drinks on the menu.

19. Chai tea latte

The chai tea latte is similar to the matcha tea latte in that it uses tea instead of coffee. However, it has a much more pungent and aromatic use of spices such as:

  • Cinnamon
  • Ginger
  • Cloves
  • Cardamom
  • Black pepper
Spices used to make a chai latte at home.

This rich latte has 8 grams (0.28 ounces) of protein from the milk that is steamed and used for the base.

It’s also available as an iced chai tea latte, yet it will have one less gram of protein than the original version.

More great Starbucks drinks

Ready to learn more about what kind of drinks Starbucks has?

Great!

Below you will find all the lists I’ve created so far:

And for even more information about Starbucks, check out the Starbucks hub here!

Conclusion

With such an extensive menu, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re looking for a hot drink on a cold day or an iced latte to kick off summer.

No matter what you choose, adding caffeine can boost your energy levels throughout your daily grind.

So take advantage of the best protein drinks at Starbucks today, and enjoy feeling energized and invigorated all day!

Learn more about Starbucks

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