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This protein hot chocolate is the perfect way to treat your sweet tooth AND hit your protein goals at the same time. Whether you're looking for a post-workout recovery drink, a healthier dessert, or a comforting mug to warm you up during these long winter months, this recipe delivers all the chocolatey goodness you crave. 32 grams of protein per serving!
Why You'll Love This Homemade Hot Chocolate
When you're a kid, hot chocolate is the ultimate hot drink. But once you grow up the sad truth is that hot chocolate isn't great for you and offers little to no nutrition – so we have to (or get to!) improvise.
This is not just any cup of hot chocolate – it's a delicious way to get some extra protein, is full of flavor, and is made with clean, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
The creamy texture feels indulgent, but you'll love how nourishing it is. Pair this sweet mug of hot chocolate with a savory breakfast dish like these western omelette egg bites, this gluten free overnight eggs benedict casserole, or a whole30 sausage breakfast casserole.
Ingredient Notes
This drink is made with simple ingredients and is easily customizable for any dietary preference. Use your favorite protein powder and milk and whip it up in 10 minutes or less!
- Milk of choice: The base of your hot chocolate, adding creaminess and richness. Use any milk that works for you – whole milk, soy milk, cashew milk, oat milk, or unsweetened almond milk.
- Chocolate protein powder: Adds both flavor and a boost of protein to keep you fueled. Use your favorite protein powder – I love this one, chocolate protein powder, and you can use code MARY for a discount!
- Cacao powder: Adds a deep, rich chocolate flavor. Unsweetened cocoa powder works as a substitute if that's what you have on hand.
- Maple syrup: Naturally sweetens your drink. Honey, agave, brown sugar, or coconut sugar work too!
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a cozy, sweet aroma. Skip it if you're out, but it's worth including if you can.
- Sea salt: A pinch of salt brings out the sweetness and enhances the chocolatey flavor.
- Whipped cream and chocolate shavings (optional): These toppings make it extra indulgent. Use Cocowhip for a dairy-free option and enjoy! Don't forget the mini marshmallows for some extra fun!
For exact ingredient amounts and instructions, see the printable recipe card below.
How to Make This Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipe
Step 1: Heat the milk over medium heat in a pot on the stove. When the milk is warmed, whisk in the chocolate protein powder, cacao powder, maple syrup, and ¼ tsp vanilla extract until smooth. When the milk is warmed, whisk in the chocolate protein powder, cacao powder, maple syrup, and ¼ tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 2: Continue stirring over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes. For extra frothiness, use a milk frother before serving. Pour into your favorite mug, top with whipped cream or marshmallows and chocolate shavings (if desired), and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Using a milk like Fairlife can help boost protein content!
- Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk to make this protein hot chocolate dairy-free.
- You can use vanilla protein powder if you don't have chocolate. You can also use whey protein powder or vegan protein powder if that's what you prefer!
Serving Tips
Pair your hot chocolate with banana protein muffins, gluten free biscuits, or chocolate chip peanut butter protein cookies for the ultimate treat!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (unlikely!), you can store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove top, stirring well to recombine the ingredients.
Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! Heat your milk in a microwave-safe mug, then whisk in the remaining ingredients until smooth.
With regular milk and Be Well By Kelly protein powder, this has 32g of protein! This number will vary depending on the type of milk and brand of protein powder used.
More High Protein Recipes
Ninja Creami Protein Ice Cream (24g Protein, 4 Ingredients)
The Best Gluten Free Protein French Toast Recipe
Easy Vegan Baked Oats with Protein Powder
Easy Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder, use code MARY for a discount!
- 1 tbsp cacao powder
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- pinch sea salt
- whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping, optional – use dairy free Cocowhip if preferred!
Instructions
- Heat the milk over medium heat in a pot on the stove.
- When warmed, whisk in the chocolate protein powder, cacao powder, maple syrup and ¼ tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
- Continue stirring over medium low heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour into your favorite mug, top with whipped cream or marshmallows and chocolate shavings (if desired) and enjoy!
Notes
- Using a milk like Fairlife can help boost protein content!
- Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk to make this protein hot chocolate dairy-free.
- You can use vanilla protein powder if you don't have chocolate. You can also use whey protein powder or vegan protein powder if that's what you prefer!
Nutrition
All nutrition facts are an estimate and automatically calculated. While I fact check them using My Fitness Pal, please note that they may not always be 100% accurate and depend on ingredients used. Weigh your total and divide by the number of servings for the most accurate grams per serving size.
