☕️ The Morning Coffee Experiment
Recently, I’ve been on a mission to find a cozy morning coffee drink with protein that’s actually gluten and dairy free. The new protein drinks at most coffee shops? Nope. Not safe for me.
So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a caramel apple protein latte that fits my dietary needs and my fall vibes. 🍎☕
❤️ H = Health
Let’s look under the hood of these two products before blending them together:
🧃 Califia Farms Caramel Apple Almond Latte
Calories: 110 per serving
Fat: 4.5g
Carbohydrates: 18g (2g fiber, 2g protein)
Nutrition Notes: Contains calcium, iron, and potassium
First ingredients: Coffee, almond milk, cane sugar
Perks: Vegan, kosher, non-GMO, carrageenan-free, gluten-free, BPA-free packaging
💡 Nurse Note: Almond milk contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that can promote heart health!
🥤 Koia Elite Plant-Based Protein (Vanilla)
Calories: 210 per ½ cup (I used ⅛ cup in my blend)
Fat: 3.5g
Carbohydrates: 13g (6g fiber!)
Protein: 20+ grams per serving
First ingredients: Pea protein, chicory root fiber, organic cane sugar
Perks: No seed oils, no gums, erythritol-free, gluten & dairy free
💡 Nurse Note: Chicory root fiber helps regulate blood sugar, keeps you fuller longer, and supports healthy cholesterol levels.
🍴 E = Eating
Time for the fun part — the mixology!
I poured about 12 oz of the Califia Farms Caramel Apple Almond Latte into my Ninja blender cup, added ⅛ cup of the Koia Elite Protein Powder, gave it a good spin for 30 seconds, and topped it with ice.
✨ Taste verdict: Dessert in a cup! Definitely on the sweet side, but it gave all the caramel apple vibes I’ve been craving without the dairy drama.
💸 A = Accessibility
Califia Farms Caramel Apple Almond Latte: $5.99 at Jewel-Osco (regularly $6.99)
Koia Elite Plant-Based Protein (Vanilla): $29.99 at Costco for a 44.8 oz bag
Both paid for by me, not sponsored — just a gluten- and dairy-free NP trying to make your mornings easier. ☕
💓 R = Rhythm Rating
💗 Tachycardia!
Loved this combo — flavorful, filling, and super easy. I’ll definitely keep both stocked for fall mornings (and maybe afternoons… let’s be real).
💬 T = Tell Others + Tips
Even if you have food allergies, you don’t have to go without the things you love — sometimes you just have to take an extra step or two.
💡 Tip: Add your own safe protein to lower-sugar coffee drinks for a more balanced start to your day. Your wallet (and your blood sugar) will thank you!
Remember: what you put in your body fuels how you feel — every sip counts.
Stay safe, happy, healthy ❤️
