Apparently when you reach your 40’s, you have to spend most of your day trying to meet your protein goals. I don’t know how we’re all fitting in raising children and holding down a job while we are constantly prepping meat bowls and lifting heavy things. Protein is big business. It’s way more than just bars — it’s being added to everything from chips to popcorn to coffee.

While visiting a Northern Minnesota resort last summer, I encountered a Collagen Latte. Served over ice, it was the classic espresso and milk boosted with a protein/collagen powder. I loved it and quickly realized I could create my own version at home for a fraction of the price and with the best ingredients.

I shared this on Minnesota Live this morning and invited a special taste tester into my kitchen – Twin Cities Live reporter (and my dear friend) Kelli Hanson. Watch till the end for her unfiltered review.

I’m sharing my basic method here:

• Pour 12 ounces milk of choice into a 20 ounce insulated tumbler
• Add 1 scoop of protein powder and use a frother to combine
• Add ice, allowing room for the espresso
• Add 2 shots of espresso
• Sprinkle with cinnamon (if desired)
• Stir and enjoy

A few notes about ingredients and tools:

• About 5 years ago, we invested in this coffee machine. The price tag is shocking, I know. But it’s turned out to be one of the most-used machines in our kitchen. I use it every single day and very rarely get coffee on the outside. I use it to make the espresso shots for my protein lattes but there are definitely other ways to get espresso that are great.
  • The Nespresso machine – we have one of these at work and they are fantastic.
  • A stovetop espresso maker – the Italian way to make an espresso. Simple and lovely process.
  • Instant coffee – I love King Coffee and Four Sigmatic (with adaptogens!). Just pour the packet in with the protein powder and froth.
• Protein powder is really a personal choice. There are a million different ones on the market and I find that people are really individual in terms of which sweeteners they prefer. I stock this whey protein and this grass fed beef protein.
• Coffee is also really personal but I look for mold free, organic and fair trade. I like Fabula, Heirloom Roasters and Danger Coffee, to name a few.