Boasting a satisfying 26 grams of protein per mug, this protein hot chocolate is creamy, chocolate-y and easy. With a luxurious, thick and creamy texture and rich, decadent chocolate flavor it has all of the goodness you look for in a mug of hot cocoa but with the extra benefits of being filling and nourishing. It is the perfect cozy and comforting drink.
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Living in Alberta, where winter takes up well more than it's allotted 3 months, I would consider hot chocolate to be a staple.
I love embracing the cold and all of it's activities- snow-shoeing, skating, skiing- they are all great ways to get outside!
But after, I'm in need of a warm mug of something to hold in my nearly frozen hands and this protein hot chocolate is one of my go-to's! Not only does it warm me up but with the additional protein, it is a great snack for refueling after said winter activities.
Whether you live somewhere cold or you're simply looking for a way to add more substance to your mug of comforting hot cocoa, I know you'll love this recipe because:
- Packed with Protein: Each mug boasts a whopping 26 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and nourishing beverage.
- Creamy + Deeply Chocolatey: The taste and texture are everything you want when you indulge in a cup of hot cocoa- you can hardly taste the protein powder (if at all).
- Uses Plain Protein Powder: Unlike some recipes which require chocolate protein powder, I created this recipe to use plain protein powder as I prefer to not have to buy multiple powders in order to create different recipes (I use plain protein powder to make Date Protein Balls (6 Ways!) and Chocolate Peanut Butter Protein Bars too).
- Naturally Sweetened: Sweetened entirely with maple syrup (though you can use your sweetener of choice), this recipe is refined sugar free.
- Adaptable to Different Diets: If you can't tolerate dairy, you can easily customize it by swapping in your milk of choice (or make this hot chocolate without milk recipe).
- Ready in Under 10 Minutes: Whip up this delicious hot chocolate in no time, perfect for a quick and cozy beverage whenever you'd like.
The Ingredients
- Milk- I like to use 1% cow's milk for this recipe as it is high in protein and provides a creamy base. However, you can use whatever milk you prefer- just note that it will affect the protein content for serving.
- Protein Powder- I typically use pea protein isolate, plain brown rice protein powder or a combination. This recipe is pretty forgiving though so you can experiment with whatever type you prefer. If using a flavored version, you may need to reduce the maple syrup so that it doesn't turn out too sweet.
- Cocoa Powder- Provides the chocolate flavor in this hot chocolate recipe (so that you can use a plain protein powder and don't need to use chocolate protein powder).
- Maple Syrup- For sweetness. You can substitute with honey or another sweetener of choice. See this post for more options.
- Espresso Powder + Salt- These enhance the flavor. They can be be left out if needed but adding them takes this hot cocoa to the next level.
The Method
1. Mix. Add all of the ingredients to a small saucepan and whisk together until well combined. It will take 1-2 minutes but ensuring a smooth mixture prior to heating will prevent a clumpy hot cocoa.
2. Heat. Place the pot over medium low heat and cook for 4-7 minutes until steaming, whisking often and keeping a close eye so that it doesn't boil over.
3. Enjoy! Carefully pour into a mug and add garnish if desired.
Want to make it in the Microwave?
Add all of the ingredients to a large mug and whisk until smooth. Microwave for 3-4 x 30 second intervals, stirring after each, until hot.
Leftovers and Storage
To Store: This protein hot chocolate is best served immediately as the ingredients tend to separate a bit when stored.
If needed, you can allow the hot chocolate to cool for 30 minutes at room temperature and then store in a jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
To Reheat: Rewarm in a small saucepan over medium heat, whisking constantly, for 4-5 minutes until heated through.
Make it Your Own
- Peppermint Protein Hot Chocolate- Add ⅛ teaspoon of pure peppermint extract.
- Use a Flavored Protein Powder- You can experiment with using complementary protein powder flavors such as vanilla, caramel or peanut butter.
- Peanut Butter Protein Hot Chocolate- Use peanut butter as the nut butter in this no milk hot chocolate and then add 2 tablespoons of protein powder to that recipe. Garnish with an additional swirl of peanut butter.
Hot Chocolate Garnishes
Make your mug of protein hot cocoa extra decadent by finishing it off with some:
- Fresh Chocolate Shavings
- Whipped Cream (or Coconut Cream)
- Chocolate Sauce
- Chopped Candy Cane
- Caramel Sauce
- Chocolate Chips
- Marshmallows
- Chocolate Chip Cookies (for dipping)
This recipe is written to work with plain protein powder- I typically use pea or brown rice protein.
Different protein powders absorb different amounts of liquid so you can use whatever type you prefer but you may need to adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency. This recipe is quite forgiving though (unlike protein balls which are more affected by the texture of the powder).
If you use a flavored protein powder, ensure it complements the flavor of chocolate (ie: vanilla, chocolate or caramel).
I recommend using 1% cow's milk as it provides a creamy base and is high in protein. However, this recipe will work with any milk of choice (cashew, oat, coconut, almond, etc). Just note that the protein content will be affected.
Tips and Notes
- Mix well: It is important to whisk the ingredients thoroughly before heating to ensure a smooth hot chocolate without lumps.
- Keep a Close Eye: Whisk often and stay nearby as recipes that involve heating milk are at a high risk of boiling over.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the hot chocolate before serving and add sweetener as needed to suit your preference.
- Use 1% Milk: If you tolerate dairy, I recommend making this recipe with 1% milk as it is higher in protein than most milk alternatives and is creamy enough to yield a creamy hot cocoa. If you can't tolerate dairy, though, this recipe will work with any type of milk. Just note that the protein content will differ.
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Recipe Card
Protein Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1 and ¼ cups milk
- 2 tablespoon protein powder I used pea protein isolate
- 1 and ½ tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or sweetener of choice, plus additional to taste
- ¼ teaspoon espresso powder
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Add all of the ingredients to a small saucepan and whisk together until well combined. It will take 1-2 minutes but ensuring a smooth mixture prior to heating will prevent a clumpy hot cocoa.
- Place the pot over medium low heat and cook for 4-7 minutes until steaming, whisking often and keeping a close eye so that it doesn't boil over.
- Carefully pour into a mug, add garnish if desired and serve.
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