• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Pretty Delicious Life
  • Home
  • Recipes
    • Breakfast
    • Entrees
    • Sides + Starters
    • Snacks
    • Soup + Sauces
    • Dessert
    • Drinks
    • Fodmap Friendly Recipes
  • Guides
  • About
    • My Story
    • Disclaimer
  • Contact
    • Work with Me
    • Privacy Policy
    • Cookie Policy
  • Navigation Menu: Social Icons

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest

Protein Hot Chocolate

December 13, 2022 December 14, 2022 prettydeliciouslife

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe is the perfect healthy holiday treat! Made with cocoa powder & chocolate protein powder, it serves up all the chocolatey goodness you’d expect from traditional hot chocolate, with the extra added benefits of protein & no added refined sugars. Serve this cozy hot drink at your next holiday party or enjoy it snuggled up by the fire during the winter months!

Protein hot chocolate is the perfect cozy drink for anyone looking to add a few additional grams of protein into their day while simultaneously satisfying their sweet tooth. This healthy hot chocolate can be made using your favorite protein powder & other simple ingredients.

If you’re looking for more protein packed drinks, try this Mixed Berry Energy Smoothie or this Green Goddess Smoothie. If you’re searching for gut friendly, easy to digest protein powder, check out this handy guide to my favorite low fodmap protein powders.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It is good for you. This hot chocolate recipe is a great way to get an additional serving of healthy protein into your day while still enjoying a holiday treat.
  • It is easy. The best part about this recipe, aside from it being an absolutely delicious, creamy hot chocolate recipe, is that it is so easy. It requires just a few minutes of time and a handful of pantry staple ingredients.
  • It is versatile. There are a few different ways this recipe can be made in terms of method as well as ingredients you can use, so regardless of the type of diet you follow or kitchen equipment you have available, you’ll be able to enjoy this delicious protein packed hot beverage during the holiday season!

Please note this post contains affiliate links.

protein powder hot chocolate ingredients

Protein Hot Chocolate Ingredients & Tested Substitutions

  • Milk: The great thing about this hot cocoa recipe is that you can use your favorite milk of choice. I prefer to use unsweetened almond milk, but you can also use whole milk, skim milk with a splash of heavy cream, coconut milk, or any of your favorite nut milks.
  • Cocoa Powder: You can use unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder to infuse more chocolatey flavor into this hot protein shake. You can also use your favorite hot chocolate mix if you prefer. Note that if you use cacao powder you may need to add additional maple syrup as cacao can be on the more bitter side.
  • Chocolate Protein Powder: I like to use beef isolate protein powder, but you can use chocolate whey protein powder, chocolate collagen peptides, or your favorite vegan protein powder. You can also use vanilla protein powder & add a few additional tablespoons of cocoa powder if that’s all you have on hand. Please see instructions for notes on preparing using whey protein powder.
  • Vanilla Extract: Use a high quality vanilla extract for best results.
  • Maple Syrup: I like to add a touch of sweetness by using maple syrup, but you can also use coconut sugar or brown sugar.
  • Optional toppings like mini marshmallows, cacao nibs, whip cream, chocolate chips or even candy cane pieces!

Protein Hot Chocolate Step By Step Instructions

  1. Blend ingredients. The best way to quickly blend the protein powder, vanilla, milk & cocoa powder is by adding the ingredients to a blender and blending until smooth, about 1-2 pulses max. If you don’t feel like getting the blender out, you can also use a handheld milk frother, a shaker cup, or simply whisk the protein powder & cocoa into the vanilla and milk on the stove top, which I find to be the next best alternative. NOTE: If you are using whey protein, do NOT blend in a blender! Whey thickens up and creates a less than ideal hot cocoa texture. If your only option is whey protein, you’ll need to continuously whisk the protein powder and milk while heating. You may also need to add additional milk until you’ve reached the desired thickness.
protein hot chocolate instructions

2. Heat the hot cocoa mix. Once you’ve mixed up the ingredients, pour them into a small pot on the stove top & heat the mixture over medium heat until just boiling, about 3 minutes. While the hot cocoa is heating, gently whisk it to ensure no clumps of protein powder remain. If your cocoa is too thick, add additional milk until desired thickness is reached.

protein powder hot chocolate instructions

3. Serve. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs & serve with optional toppings like whip cream or mini marshmallows. Tip: to be sure no protein powder clumps remain, whisk while pouring or pour the hot cocoa through a fine mesh strainer.

protein hot chocolate

Protein Hot Chocolate FAQs

What type of protein powder is best for hot chocolate?

I have found that beef isolate protein powder is my personal favorite, however collagen peptides dissolve the most quickly, so if you’re worried about extra clumps in your protein hot chocolate, that might be the best choice for you. You can also use whey protein powder however it is very important to note that whey protein tends to thicken up when heated & blended. It is best to skip the step of blending and simply whisk the whey protein continuously into the milk while heating, being mindful that you may want to add more milk until you reach the desired thickness.

How do I avoid protein powder clumps in hot chocolate?

The best way to avoid clumps in your protein hot chocolate is to pulse all of the ingredients together in a blender until smooth & creamy. I find that while you’re heating the hot chocolate mixture you should also continue to whisk it, as this prevents any clumps from forming. To be extra sure, continue whisking the hot cocoa while pouring it into your mug for an ultra smooth & creamy hot beverage.

How do I avoid making my protein hot chocolate too thick?

Using whey protein can create a very thick hot chocolate when blended. I recommend using a whisk instead & continuously whisking while heating the hot chocolate. Using a protein powder like beef isolate, collagen peptides or even pea protein can be mixed briefly in a blender for 1-2 pulses, then whisked occasionally while heating for the perfect hot chocolate texture.

Can you make your own protein hot chocolate mix?

Yes! Simply add 1 tbsp of cocoa powder for every 1 scoop of protein powder. You can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months for optimal freshness. When it comes time to making the protein hot chocolate, use 1/4 cup of this mixture and follow the instructions on the recipe card for making the hot cocoa.

How to store protein hot chocolate

You can store your protein hot chocolate in a mason jar with a lid or another airtight glass container for up to 2 days in the fridge. Simply pour the mixture into a sauce pan on the stove top over medium heat, whisk continuously and heat until just starting to boil.

What are some other ways to enjoy protein hot chocolate?

You can add so many flavors to your protein hot chocolate if you don’t want to just have regular hot chocolate! I love adding a few drops of peppermint extract, cinnamon, or even peanut butter powder.

protein hot chocolate

If You Liked This Recipe You Might Also Enjoy:

  • Hot Chocolate Cookies
  • Starbucks Copycat Espresso Brownies
  • Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
  • Best Gingerbread Cookies
  • Christmas Cutout Cookies

Did you have a chance to make this recipe? If so, please leave me a 5 star rating and review below. I always love and appreciate hearing from you!

protein hot chocolate

Protein Hot Chocolate

Pretty Delicious Life
This Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe is the perfect healthy holiday treat! Made with cocoa powder & chocolate protein powder, it serves up all the chocolatey goodness you'd expect from traditional hot chocolate, with the extra added benefits of protein & no added refined sugars. Serve this cozy hot drink at your next holiday party or enjoy it snuggled up by the fire during the winter months!
5 from 2 votes
Print Recipe Pin Me
Prep Time 2 mins
Cook Time 3 mins
Total Time 5 mins
Course Dessert, Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 1

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/4 cups milk of choice
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup more or less to taste
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract optional
  • mini marshmallows for topping

Instructions
 

  • Blend ingredients. The best way to quickly blend the protein powder, vanilla, milk & cocoa powder is by adding the ingredients to a blender and blending until smooth, about 1-2 pulses max. If you don't feel like getting the blender out, you can also use a handheld milk frother, a shaker cup, or simply whisk the protein powder & cocoa into the vanilla and milk on the stove top, which I find to be the next best alternative. NOTE: If you are using whey protein, do NOT blend! Whey thickens up and creates a less than ideal hot cocoa texture. If your only option is whey protein, you'll need to continuously whisk the protein powder and milk while heating. You may also need to add additional milk until you've reached the desired thickness.
  • Heat the hot cocoa mix. Once you've mixed up the ingredients, pour them into a small pot on the stove top & heat the mixture over medium heat until just boiling, about 3 minutes. While the hot cocoa is heating, gently whisk it to ensure no clumps of protein powder remain. If your cocoa is too thick, add additional milk until desired thickness is reached.
  • Serve. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs & serve with optional toppings like whip cream or mini marshmallows. Tip: to be sure no protein powder clumps remain, whisk while pouring or pour the hot cocoa through a fine mesh strainer.

Notes

If you are using whey protein, do NOT blend using a blender! Whey thickens up and creates a less than ideal hot cocoa texture. If your only option is whey protein, you’ll need to continuously whisk the protein powder and milk while heating. You may also need to add additional milk until you’ve reached the desired thickness
 
To be sure no protein powder clumps remain, whisk while pouring or pour the hot cocoa through a fine mesh strainer.
Tried this recipe?Mention @prettydeliciouslife or tag #PDLrecipes!
Keyword hot chocolate, protein hot chocolate, protein powder, protein shake
Previous Post: « Espresso Brownies (Starbucks Copycat, Gluten Free Option)
Next Post: Chocolate Covered Popcorn »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

About Kim:

Hi! I’m Kim, the full-time recipe developer, photographer and creator behind Pretty Delicious Life, where you’ll find 100% gluten free, healthier recipes developed with a happy gut in mind. What started out as a space for me to record my favorite gut-friendly recipes has turned into a space for people like you, who absolutely LOVE food but are looking for healthier versions of their favorite recipes that make them feel amazing both inside and out.

Follow Me:

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest

Gluten Free Chicken Salad

gluten free rice krispies treats

Gluten Free Rice Krispie Treats

Brioche French Toast Casserole (Gluten Free)

Chocolate Covered Popcorn

protein hot chocolate

Protein Hot Chocolate

starbucks copycat espresso brownies

Espresso Brownies (Starbucks Copycat, Gluten Free Option)

Copyright © 2023 Pretty Delicious Life on the Foodie Pro Theme

We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Manage consent

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
CookieDurationDescription
cookielawinfo-checbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
cookielawinfo-checbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
cookielawinfo-checbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
Functional
Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
Performance
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
Analytics
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
Advertisement
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
Others
Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
SAVE & ACCEPT