Protein Hot Chocolate 15G Protein

Looking for more high-protein drink recipes? Try protein coffee, chocolate protein shake, peanut butter protein shake, and protein milkshake next. I’m in my protein era right now, which means I’m finding new ways to incorporate protein into my favorite foods. Recently, as I was sipping on a cup of hot chocolate, I wondered what would happen if I incorporated chocolate protein powder into the mix. Well, let’s just say I’ve found an even EASIER way to get my daily protein while still getting my nightly treat.

Why I love this recipe

15 grams of protein per cup. And you can’t even tell because it’s a key ingredient in the mix. Easy to make ahead. I make a massive batch of this stuff and keep it for months. That way, whenever I want a cup, all I have to do is boil some water, and I’m good to go. Tastes like the real deal. I’m over recipes that force protein into everything and sacrifice all the flavor. This protein hot chocolate recipe tastes as decadent as traditional hot chocolate mixes. Customize it. Add more chocolate for a richer chocolate flavor, use your favorite protein powder, or experiment with fun mix-ins.

Ingredients needed

Chocolate protein powder. Use your favorite protein powder since this will be the bulk of the flavor. I prefer pea protein for my vegan protein powder, but if you’re not vegan, I’d go with casein or whey protein powder. Sugar. I used white sugar, but brown sugar or a sugar-free sweetener would also work (allulose is a fabulous zero calorie sweetener that dissolves like sugar!). Cocoa powder. I added ¼ of a cup of Dutch-processed unsweetened cocoa powder, but you can add more for a richer chocolate flavor. Milk. Optional, but I prefer using milk for my healthy hot chocolate since it yields a thicker, creamier drink. I used unsweetened almond milk but oat milk, coconut milk, or regular milk will all do.

How to make protein hot chocolate

I’ve included step-by-step photos below to make this recipe easy to follow at home. For the full printable recipe instructions and ingredient quantities, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Arman’s recipe tips

Save time. I find using a milk frother or blender makes quick work of blending up my hot chocolate. Make it sweeter. I intentionally kept the sugar content in this recipe minimal since every protein powder has varying sweetness. After you’ve made your hot chocolate, taste it and add a little honey or maple syrup for more sweetness. Enhance the flavor. To the hot chocolate, add a few drops of vanilla extract or peppermint extract for a different flavor. Add toppings. What is a good cup of hot chocolate without marshmallows and whipped cream?

Storage instructions

To store hot cocoa mix: Hot cocoa mix should be covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months. To store hot chocolate: I prefer to drink fresh hot chocolate, but if you have any leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Then, transfer it to a microwave-safe mug and microwave or heat on the stovetop until warm.