Boost your day with this warm and nourishing protein golden milk! Made with oat milk, vanilla protein powder, and cozy spices like turmeric and cinnamon, it’s the perfect healthy, comforting drink.
$1.58 per recipe / $1.58 per serving

Every morning, I start my day with a protein-packed drink to fuel my body and set a positive tone for the day ahead.
Recently, I stumbled upon a golden milk recipe and was instantly drawn to its warm, comforting blend of spices. I decided to give it a little twist by adding protein, and the result was a delicious and nourishing way to kick off my mornings.
This recipe works because it’s:
- Anti-inflammatory. The turmeric, combined with black pepper to enhance absorption, provides powerful anti-inflammatory properties, making this drink both comforting and health-boosting.
- Easy to prepare. This recipe comes together in minutes with just a microwave and a milk frother, making it an ideal option for busy mornings.
- Diet-friendly. Using oat milk makes this recipe naturally dairy-free and vegan (with plant-based protein powder), while the customizable ingredients fit into a variety of dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions


Pour 8 ounces of oat milk into a glass measuring cup.
Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute.
Add in 2½ Tablespoons of vanilla protein powder (enough to equal 10 grams of protein), ½ teaspoon ground turmeric, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of black pepper and salt.
Use a milk frother to mix everything together.
Strain the drink using a fine mesh sieve (if desired). Taste the golden milk and sweeten with agave, honey, or maple syrup (if desired).
If you’re a visual learner, you can see a video of me making the drink here.
Recipe Costs

This protein steamer costs $1.58 to make which is way cheaper than getting a drink at your local coffee shop! And the ingredients are so good for you too!
- 8 ounces oat milk – $0.42 (price varies depending on brand of oat milk)
- Vanilla protein powder – $0.78 (price varies depending on brand of protein powder)
- Ground turmeric – $0.11
- Ground cinnamon – $0.02
- Ground ginger – $0.06
- Ground nutmeg – $0.06
- Vanilla extract – $0.11
- Salt and pepper – $0.02
Serve this With

This delicious protein golden milk pairs well with these breakfast recipes:
- Whole-Grain Toast: Spread with almond butter, peanut butter, or avocado for added protein and healthy fats.
- Oatmeal: A creamy bowl of oats with toppings like nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
- Breakfast Muffins: Opt for a healthy muffin made with oats, bananas, or zucchini for a touch of sweetness.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and fruit for a balanced, crunchy side.
- Waffles or Pancakes: A stack of whole-grain or protein pancakes drizzled with maple syrup or topped with nut butter.
- Energy Balls or Bars: A quick, no-bake option packed with oats, nuts, and seeds to complement the protein drink.
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: An easy, portable protein boost for mornings when you’re in a rush.
FAQs

Straining is optional. If you prefer a smoother texture, use a fine mesh sieve to remove any undissolved spices or protein powder. Otherwise, give it a good stir before sipping!
Golden milk is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, thanks to turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon. Adding protein makes it a more filling and balanced drink.
Yes! To save time, mix the dry spices (turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, black pepper, and salt) in bulk and store them in an airtight container. Use about 1 teaspoon of the mix per serving, adjusting to your taste.
To prepare this on the stove, add the oat milk to a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the protein powder, vanilla extract, and spices. Whisk continuously until the mixture is warmed through and smooth. Taste and sweeten as desired before serving.
Some spices may settle as the drink cools, even when prepared on the stove. Whisk thoroughly or use a frother just before serving to reincorporate the spices.

Protein Golden Milk (in the microwave)
Ingredients
- 8 ounces oat milk, or your favorite milk
- 2 ½ Tablespoons vanilla protein powder, enough to equal 10 grams of protein
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch salt and pepper
- agave, honey, or maple syrup, optional
Instructions
- Pour 8 ounces of oat milk into a glass measuring cup.
- Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute.
- Add in 2½ Tablespoons of vanilla protein powder, ½ teaspoon ground turmeric, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of black pepper and salt.
- Use a milk frother to mix everything together.
- Strain the drink using a fine mesh sieve (if desired). Taste the golden milk and sweeten with agave, honey, or maple syrup (if desired).