Protein Hot Chocolate

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Satisfy your cocoa cravings with a mug of protein hot chocolate! Rich, creamy and nutritious, each cup packs over 20 grams of protein and all the flavor.

clear mug of protein hot chocolate topped with marshmallows

Listen, I don’t want to be one of those people who adds protein powder to everything I eat, BUT…protein powder really does make the perfect hot chocolate! This protein hot chocolate is great for a sweet tooth because it tastes like the hot chocolate you love, but the extra protein really helps turn down sugar cravings. It will be your go-to winter drink!

And if you are looking for new ways to incorporate protein into your favorite foods, try my 3-ingredient protein cookies or protein cinnamon rolls next!

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Ingredients
Instructions
Substitutions & Variations
Equipment
Storage
Top Tip
FAQ
More protein recipes
Protein Hot Chocolate

Ingredients

Homemade hot chocolate is so easy to make, tastes better than the powdered stuff, and is cheaper! This recipe is creamy and decadent, but packs over 20g of protein using only 3-ingredients.

milk - I love using whole milk for a super creamy hot chocolate, but any milk will do. If you prefer using a plant-based milk or water you can, it will just result in a much less creamy hot chocolate.
unsweetened cocoa powder - this adds to the delicious chocolatey taste. Cocoa or cacao powder will work in this hot chocolate recipe, just make sure they are unsweetened.
protein powder - use a chocolate protein powder for the richest-tasting hot chocolate. You can substitute it for vanilla or unflavored protein, even collagen powder if needed. Quest is one of my absolute favorites brands, but any protein powder will do.
sweetener (optional) - you can add a sweetener like maple syrup or honey, but depending on your protein powder it's probably not necessary.
toppings & mix-ins (optional) - whipped cream, mini-marshmallows, or a splash of peppermint extract.

Instructions

Microwave the milk in 30 second intervals, stirring in between, until milk becomes steamy.

clear mug filled with milk, chocolate protein powder and cocoa powder.

Pour ½ cup of milk into a mug. Add cocoa powder, protein powder and sweetener or mix-ins (if using). Froth until smooth.

Pour in the remaining ½ cup of warm milk. Froth again until smooth.

Pro-tip: Every protein powder brand is different so taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness as needed. You can add more milk if it is too thick.

Substitutions & Variations

Protein powder - substitute whey protein for pea protein powder. You can also use vanilla, mocha, or peanut butter flavored protein powders for a fun twist.
Dairy-Free - Use your favorite plant-based milk or water for a completely dairy-free version.
Dark chocolate chunk - for a richer flavor, substitute cocoa powder for 2 tablespoon of melted dark chocolate.
Peppermint bark - for a festive, minty hot chocolate add a splash of peppermint extract and top with crushed candy canes.

Equipment

Mug
Frother (optional)

Storage

I recommend sipping this protein hot chocolate right after making it. You can refrigerate any leftovers in a sealed jar for up to 3 days, but this might cause the hot chocolate to separate. Whisk it again when reheating.

Top Tip

Don't burn the milk! Microwave in 15-30 second intervals and stir in between. Do NOT let it boil, we want to heat the milk until it starts to get steamy.
Use a high-quality protein. Any protein powder will work, but whey or pea protein create a smoother hot chocolate.
Make it frothy. I use a mini battery-powered frother to make it extra creamy, but you can mix/whisk it by hand.
Don't forget the toppings. Add a pinch of sea salt, mini-marshmallows or a splash of peppermint.

FAQ

What’s the best type of milk for hot chocolate?

That really depends on your personal preferences and dietary needs. Whole milk will give you a rich, creamy texture and the most flavor, while plant-based milks offer dairy-free alternatives with unique flavors and fewer calories.

Can you put protein powder in a hot drink?

Absolutely! Protein powder can be used in hot or cold drinks. The temperature does not denature the protein or make it less effective, but it may cause it to clump.

More protein recipes

If you liked this protein hot chocolate, give these tasty protein recipes a try!