Creamy high protein hot chocolate with rich, deep chocolate flavors that is packed with brain-boosting nutritious benefits. Perfect for those cozy moments on chilly days or after a workout.
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✋🏼E aí, pessoal! Hey there, friends!
Today, we’re sharing a nutrient-packed hot chocolate recipe that’s my go-to every fall and winter. It’s rich, creamy, and full of cozy chocolate flavor, with 16 grams of protein and brain-friendly ingredients to keep you energized.
Hot chocolate has always been special to me. Growing up, my dad would wake us up during winter storms with popcorn and hot cocoa to watch the snow fall. It was simple, but it made those snowy nights magical. Now, I’ve passed that tradition on to my kids, but with a high protein twist—so its perfect after a snowy walk or even a winter workout, especially paired with our healthy bliss balls for kids!
The best part? Keep our protein hot chocolate recipe classic, or try adding a shot of espresso and serve it with our cinnamon star cookies! Let’s make this winter a little cozier—one warm, chocolatey mug at a time.
👪Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes with simple ingredients, this recipe fits into even the busiest winter days.
- High-Protein Boost: Each mug delivers 16 grams of protein, perfect for keeping you full and energized.
- Diet-Friendly: Dairy-free, gluten-free, and sugar-free, it works for a variety of dietary needs.
- Rich, Creamy Flavor: Enjoy all the indulgence of hot chocolate without the added sugar.
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with brain-friendly ingredients, it’s a great post-workout or afternoon pick-me-up.
- Customizable: Add marshmallows, a shot of espresso, or keep it classic—it’s versatile for the whole family.
🧠Nutrient Highlight: Why Drink This?
This protein hot chocolate isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with brain-boosting perks! Here’s why:
- Improves Focus and Memory: Cocoa flavanols can enhance attention and memory, helping you stay sharp for all those mom tasks. (1).
- Protects Brain Health: Flavanols have been shown to support cognitive function, especially as we age or face mental fatigue (2).
- Fights Fatigue: Feeling worn out? Cocoa’s nutrients can give your brain a boost, even on your most exhausting days (1,2).
🍫Ingredients List
When it comes to creating our hot chocolate with protein recipe, you need just a few simple ingredients:
- Milk or Hot Water: When it comes to making hot chocolate without milk, I love using oat milk or water for this recipe. It's a great creamy dairy-free alternative that still gives our hot chocolate a creamy texture. Plus, it's easily available in most grocery stores.
- Chocolate Protein Powder: You can use your favorite protein powder brand for this recipe but I like choosing a chocolate or vanilla version. I opt for Garden of Life Raw Chocolate vegan protein but be sure to check the label to ensure it is gluten-free and/or vegan.
- Cacao Powder: Cocoa is what gives our protein-rich hot chocolate that deep chocolatey flavor. I always opt for unsweetened cocoa to control the sweetness of the drink.
- Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that adds a touch of earthy sweetness to our hot chocolate. It's a healthier alternative to refined sugar and blends well with the other ingredients.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance out the flavors!
- (Optional) Chinese 5 spice: This is my secret ingredient! It adds an unexpected twist to the hot chocolate, making it even more special.
- (Optional) Vegan Mini Marshmallows: My family's favorite addition, I used Dandies vegan mini marshmallows. They are available at most grocery stores. As they melt into the hot chocolate, they create a delightful creamy layer on top.
For full quantities, see the recipe card below.
🔁Ingredient Substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Not to worry, here are some substitutions that have worked fo us when making our protein hot chocolate:
- Plant Milk Alternatives: Oat milk is my favorite for its creamy texture, but soy, almond, or coconut milk work too—each brings its own flavor.
- Chocolate Protein Powder Alternatives: Vanilla protein powder, chocolate whey protein powder, or pea protein are good alternatives. It will still give you the protein boost and creaminess but with a different flavor profile.
- Cocoa Alternatives: No cocoa? Use chocolate chips or chocolate oat milk instead.
- Maple Syrup Alternatives: Coconut sugar, brown sugar, honey, or agave work as natural sweeteners.
- Spice Alternatives: Sawp for ground ginger and clove. If you're not a fan of cinnamon, you can leave it out, but it does add a nice depth of flavor.
👩🏽🍳Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add Ingredients to Blender
Start by adding your wet ingredients into your blender. Then add the scoop of protein powder, cocoa, salt, and spices. It is best to sift in your protein powder and cocoa powder. Adding the liquid ingredients first to prevent the powder from sticking to the bottom of the blender.
Step 2: Blend Until Smooth
Blend until well combined. You're looking for a smooth, creamy consistency with no lumps. If your blender has a 'smoothie' or 'liquid' setting, use that for the best results.
Step 3: Heat Your Protein Hot Chocolate
Once everything is well blended, transfer the mixture to a small pot. Then over medium heat warm the mixture. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Don't let the mixture come to a boil. We just want it warm enough to serve.
Microwave version: If you prefer to use the microwave, simply add your protein hot chocolate to a microwavable bowl. Then heat at 45-second intervals until warm, stirring between cycles.
Step 4: Serve Warm
Serve your protein hot chocolate with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. You can also add vegan marshmallows or enjoy it as is. For the adults in the house, try adding a shot of espresso for a mocha twist!
And there you have it - a creamy, high-protein hot chocolate that's perfect to enjoy after a workout or as a mid-day snack. Enjoy!
💡Recipe Tips for Creamy Texture
Creating the perfect creamy protein hot chocolate recipe involves a few simple tips and tricks. Here are some of my favorites to ensure the perfect consistency:
- Choose the Right Protein Powder: The type of protein powder you use can greatly affect the taste and texture of your hot chocolate. Use a powder that you enjoy or that doesn't have a strong flavor.
- Sift the Dry Ingredients: To achieve that creamy texture, make sure to sift the powders and spices. This will ensure you don't get clumps or a grainy texture.
- Adjust the Sweetness: The sweetness of your hot chocolate can easily be adjusted to suit your taste.
- Use Oat Milk: While this recipe works well with water, plant-based milk like oat milk can give your hot chocolate an even creamier texture.
- Use a Blender: To help create a creamy texture for your protein hot chocolate, use a high-speed blender. This will help ensure you get a smooth, lump-free drink. If using a standard blender, simply blend a bit longer for the same creamy result.
⏲️ Meal Prep This Recipe
We all know that time is precious, so here are a couple of time-saving tips to help you whip up this protein hot chocolate recipe in no time:
- Pre-Mix Your Dry Ingredients: Save time by mixing your dry ingredients ahead of time. Combine your chocolate protein powder, cocoa, cinnamon, and Chinese 5 spice in a jar and store it in your pantry. When you're ready to make your hot chocolate, simply scoop out the amount you need and add it to your plant milk. This not only saves you time but also makes clean-up a breeze!
- Use a High-Speed Blender: A high-speed blender can significantly cut down the time it takes to get a smooth and creamy hot chocolate. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate air into the mixture, giving your hot chocolate a frothy, cafe-style finish.
☕Recipe Variations
One of the things I love about this protein hot chocolate recipe is how easy it is to mix things up. Here are a few variations and optional toppings you might want to try:
- Espresso Shot: For those days when you need a little extra pick-me-up, try adding a shot of espresso to your hot chocolate.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Want to make your hot chocolate extra festive? Try adding some crushed candy canes. They'll give your drink a delightful peppermint twist that's perfect for the holiday season.
- Sambuca: If you're feeling a bit adventurous, a shot of Sambuca can add a lovely anise flavor to your hot chocolate. It's a fun way to transform your hot chocolate into a cozy adult beverage.
- Chocolate Oat Milk: If you're a true chocolate lover, try using chocolate oat milk instead of regular oat milk. It'll make your hot chocolate even more chocolatey, without adding any extra sugar.
- Extra Protein: Looking for a healthy protein-packed post-workout drink? Simply add an extra scoop of your favorite protein powder. It's a tasty and satisfying way to help your muscles recover after a workout.
🥡Storage
Proper storage is key to enjoying your healthy hot chocolate recipe beyond the day you make it. Let the hot chocolate cool, then store it in a mason jar or airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To rewarm, shake well to mix any settled ingredients, then warm on the stove or in the microwave. Use a milk frother to recreate the frothy top if desired.
🌟 Loved this recipe? Let us know! I’d be thrilled if you could leave a comment, star rating, or share this recipe. Your feedback helps support and improve AtMyTable and helps others discover new favorites. Or come chat with me on Facebook or Instagram!
🍽️Recipe Pairings
We love having our protein hot chocolate with these high-protein snacks and we think you will too!
👋🏼Até logo, amigos! Keep savoring every bite and don’t forget—life’s better with a little flavor and fun. Até a próxima!
📖 Recipe
Healthy Hot Chocolate with Protein (Dairy-Free)
Ingredients
- 4 cups oat milk (Or Water)
- 2 scoop vegan protein powder chocolate flavor
- 4 tablespoon cocao powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional
- 2 tablespoon maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon Chinese 5 spice optional, sub with ground ginger and ground clove.
Instructions
- Start by adding the oat milk and maple syrup to the blender.
- Next, sift your protein powder and cocoa powder into the blender. Then add in your spices (if using) and salt.
- Blend until well combined. You're looking for a smooth, creamy consistency with no lumps.
- Once everything is well blended, transfer the mixture to a small saucepan.
- Cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Don't let the mixture come to a boil.
- Serve with some mini marshmallows or a dash of cinnamon.
Notes
Nutrition
Information Source
- Socci, V., Tempesta, D., Desideri, G., De Gennaro, L., & Ferrara, M. (2017). Enhancing Human Cognition with Cocoa Flavonoids. Frontiers in Nutrition, 4, 19.
- Nehlig, A. (2013). The neuroprotective effects of cocoa flavanol and its influence on cognitive performance. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 75(3), 716-727.
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