Warm up with this High Protein Hot Chocolate that has 25g of protein! Top with whipped cream for the ultimate cozy drink.
Winter in Canada means I'm constantly trying to warm up. And what better way is there than cozying up by the fireplace with a warm cup of protein hot chocolate?
Yes, your favorite cozy drink just got a protein boost, but it still tastes just as rich and delicious. Homemade hot chocolate is actually so easy to make, it tastes better than the powdered stuff, and it's cheaper than a coffee shop. Just like my oat milk hot chocolate, this recipe is creamy, decadent but packs in 25g of protein.
Seriously, protein hot chocolate is the ultimate way to get in your protein this winter - thank me later!
Why This Recipe Is Dietitian Approved
- Higher protein. This protein hot chocolate has 25g of protein, making it a satisfying and balanced sweet treat or festive drink.
- Lower sugar. If you're looking for a lower sugar hot chocolate option, this recipe is great! We only use half a tablespoon of maple syrup per cup.
- Ready in 10 minutes. Homemade hot chocolate is so easy to make, you'll never find yourself reaching for the storebought powder again!
Ingredients
Milk. Any milk of choice will work great in this recipe. For a higher protein option, I typically opt for dairy milk or soy milk for a dairy-free option. If you prefer using water you can, however it will result in a much less creamy hot chocolate.
Protein powder. I recommend using chocolate protein powder for the richest-tasting hot chocolate. However if you only have unflavoured protein powder or collagen powder on hand, you can absolutely use that as well (that is what is pictured above).
Cocoa powder. Cocoa or cacao powder will both work in this hot chocolate recipe, just make sure you look for an unsweetened hot chocolate. Please note the quality of the cocoa powder will affect the taste of this hot chocolate. My personal favorite is this one!
Maple syrup. For natural sweetness! The maple syrup provides some additional nutrients such as essential minerals, while also boosting the sweetness with a warm, caramel flavour. I recommend looking for 100% pure maple syrup (or sugar-free if you desire).
Vanilla extract. Optional, but recommended for additional flavour!
Sea salt. Adding a pinch of sea salt to your hot chocolate helps bring out the flavours of the chocolate, creating the richest and best flavour.
The complete ingredient list with measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over low heat add milk, protein powder, cocoa powder, sea salt and maple syrup. Whisk to combine.
- Allow the liquid to heat for about 5 minutes, continuously whisking periodically to ensure the powders do not clump at the bottom of the pan. Once hot, remove the hot chocolate from the heat, whisk in vanilla extract.
- Pour hot chocolate into your desired glass and enjoy.
Substitutions and Variations
To make gluten-free: this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
To make dairy-free/vegan: use soy milk or another dairy-free milk of choice and a vegan protein powder.
To make nut-free: this recipe is naturally nut-free.
Equipment
- Mug
- Electric whisk (optional)
- Saucepan
Storage
I recommend drinking this protein hot chocolate right after making it. I find if you store leftovers in the fridge, the hot chocolate tends to separate. If you do have any leftovers you can store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note you will need to whisk the hot chocolate again when reheating.
Top Tips for Success
For the smoothest hot chocolate, ensure you are whisking constantly. Rhis ensures that all of the powders (ie. protein powder and cocoa powder) are mixed fully and decreases the likelihood of clumping.
Customize the sweetness to meet your desired taste preference! As some protein powders come with added sweeteners, I find the type of protein powder you use can affect how sweet this hot chocolate is. If you are finding the hot chocolate is too sweet, you can decrease the amount of maple syrup.
Be mindful overheating this hot chocolate. Turning the heat up too high on your stove will result in the bottom of the hot chocolate burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
I don't think so! I honestly can't taste the difference between this and a traditional hot chocolate. This one is creamy, rich, tasty AND full of extra protein. Please note this does depend on the type of protein powder you use. I recommend using a protein powder without artificial sweeteners for best results.
I always find the stove top is the easiest method as it is always best to continuously whisk the powders and liquid together as they heat to ensure there is no clumps. This sadly isn't possible in the microwave. If you would still tlikeo try I recommend microwaving in 30 seconds increments and whisking in between!
I love the Nuzest chocolate protein and Organika's chocolate collagen.
More Drink Recipes
If you liked this protein hot chocolate, give these other fun drinks a try!
- Oat Milk Hot Chocolate
- Pumpkin Cold Foam Cold Brew
- Cranberry Ginger Beer Mocktail
- Lemon Turmeric Ginger Shots
See you in the kitchen!
PS. I love seeing my recipes in action! If you decide to make this protein hot chocolate, don't forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram- @nourishedbynic or leave a comment and rating below letting me know how you liked it!
📖 Recipe
High Protein Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 2 tablespoon chocolate protein powder unflavoured collagen powder or protein powder also work great
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- Pinch of sea salt optional
- ½ tablespoon maple syrup you can use sugar free if desired
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a small saucepan over low heat add milk, protein powder, cocoa powder, sea salt and maple syrup. Whisk to combine.
- Allow the liquid to heat for about 5 minutes, continuously whisking periodically to ensure the powders do not clump at the bottom of the pan. Once hot, remove the hot chocolate from the heat, whisk in vanilla extract.
- Pour hot chocolate into your desired glass and enjoy.
Emily says
Always looking for a yummy protein hot cocoa. This one is yummy.
Nicole Addison says
My new favourite nightcap- with 25g of protein- you can't go wrong!! I hope you love this one!