This rich and creamy high-protein hot chocolate recipe has over 30 grams of protein! It's single-serve, healthy, and made with chocolate protein powder in under 5 minutes in a microwave or stovetop.
Homemade hot chocolate recipe with protein powder
If you've tried my Protein Chocolate Mousse or any of my high-protein desserts, you know I'm serious about making healthier treats that still feel indulgent. This hot chocolate fits right into that world - cozy, comforting, and actually supportive of your protein goals.
I could honestly live on this protein-packed hot chocolate. It's creamy, rich, and tastes like a classic mug of cocoa, but each serving has over 30 grams of protein and around 215 calories. While my love for a traditional oat milk hot chocolate will never fade, this version has quietly become my daily winter go-to - especially as a high-protein nightcap after dinner.
The best part is how simple it is. Just four ingredients: milk (I usually use almond or oat), cocoa powder, chocolate protein powder, and honey or maple syrup. You can make it in the microwave or on the stovetop in minutes. It's warm, satisfying, and proof that healthier desserts can still feel like a treat
Why you'll love this recipe:
- High-Protein: The hot chocolate has over 30 grams per serving.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 5 minutes.
- Easy Prep: Make it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Healthy & Low-Cal: Guilt-free enjoyment with a total of 215 calories.
- Rich & Creamy: Luxurious hot chocolate with a smooth texture.
- Vegan: This protein hot chocolate is entirely plant-based.
- Customizable: Use any milk and chocolate protein powder.
- Single-Serve: This high-protein hot chocolate makes one serving.
- Try this oat milk hot chocolate or vegan protein mug cake next!
Ingredients needed
This is seriously the protein hot chocolate recipe because it's so customizable, and you only need four ingredients. It's rich, creamy, healthy, and protein-packed. Here is a list of everything you need so you are prepared:
- Milk: You can use any type of milk; try almond, oat, or cow's milk.
- Chocolate Protein Powder: You can use pea protein or whey protein powder for this recipe.
- Cocoa Powder: This adds to the delicious chocolatey taste. I recommend Dutch cocoa for a deeper flavor.
- Sweetener: You only need 1 tablespoon of honey, granulated sugar, or maple syrup to sweeten this healthy hot cocoa.
- Vanilla Extract (Optional): I reccomend adding vanilla for extra flavor!
- Topping Ideas: Mini marshmallows, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings for added texture and indulgence.
Kitchen tools needed
Here is a quick list of kitchen utensils you'll need to make this 5-minute protein hot chocolate:
- Saucepan or Pot
- Whisk
- Microwave-Safe Mug
- Measuring Spoons
How to make hot chocolate with protein powder
You can make this easy high-protein hot chocolate in the microwave or stovetop in under 5 minutes. Here are detailed step-by-step instructions with pictures for visual reference so that any level of cook can follow them; scroll to the bottom of this post for the full recipe and ingredient measurements.
Step 1:
First, decide if you're making your protein hot chocolate in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Step 2:
If you are making it on the stovetop, heat your preferred milk (almond, oat, or cow's milk) in a small pot over medium-low heat. Be cautious not to let the milk boil, as it may burn.
Then, gently whisk in the chocolate protein powder, Dutch cocoa powder, sweetener of choice, and optional vanilla extract until well combined.
Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness if needed. Every protein powder brand is different, so you can add more milk if it is too thick. Then, pour the mixture into a mug.
Step 3:
In a microwave-safe mug, combine 1 cup of your preferred milk, chocolate protein powder, Dutch cocoa powder, sweetener of choice, and optional vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure the protein powder is fully dissolved.
Microwave the mixture on high for 1-2 minutes or until the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature. Pause and stir every 30 seconds to prevent overflow.
Step 4:
In both cases, allow the protein hot chocolate to cool for a few moments before enjoying it, and top it with whipped cream, toasted or mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings. Enjoy!
Expert recipe tips
- Don't burn the milk: When heating the milk, avoid boiling it. Overheating and burning the milk will cause a bitter taste. Aim for a gentle, simmering heat.
- Use any type of milk: Use your favorite milk-try oat, almond, cashew, cow's, or skim. This recipe is flexible to suit your taste.
- Pea or Whey Protein Powder: Choose a high-quality chocolate protein powder, whether pea or whey, for a smooth taste.
- Frothy Hot Chocolate: To make it creamier, froth the milk with a frother or blend the hot chocolate for a few seconds.
- Toppings: Finish off with tasty toppings like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, cocoa powder dust, or mini marshmallows.
Variations and ingredient substitutions:
- Flavored Protein Powder: Experiment with vanilla, mocha, or salted caramel-flavored protein powders for a unique twist.
- Spiced Hot Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne pepper.
- Coconut Bliss: Use coconut milk for tropical, thicker, and more indulgent hot chocolate.
- Dark Chocolate: For a richer flavor, use 2 - 3 tablespoon of melted dark chocolate chips or chunks instead of cocoa powder.
- Dairy-Free Options: Use your favorite plant-based milk for a completely dairy-free version.
- Pumpkin Spiced: For the best fall-inspired protein hot chocolate, add a dash of pumpkin pie spice to the hot cocoa. Or serve it with my Mini Protein Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is protein hot chocolate vegan?
You can make this protein hot chocolate vegan by using pea protein powder and plant-based milk (like oat or almond milk).
Is cocoa powder vegan?
Yes, pure cocoa powder is vegan, made from ground cacao beans without milk or dairy products.
What's the best way to heat up milk for hot chocolate?
You can heat milk for hot chocolate in two ways: (1) in the microwave or (2) on the stovetop in a sauce pot. Both are great ways to heat milk and make hot chocolate! The microwave offers quick convenience, while the stovetop allows precise temperature control. Choose the method that suits your preference and kitchen setup.
What's the best type of milk for hot chocolate?
The best type of milk for hot chocolate depends on personal preference. Whole milk provides a classic richness, while almond or oat milk offers dairy-free alternatives with unique flavors and fewer calories.
How long to microwave milk for hot chocolate?
Microwave the milk for hot chocolate on high, in 30-second intervals, for 1-2 minutes until warm. Be sure to heat it at intervals to avoid burning the milk! Also, note that the time may vary depending on your microwave's strength and how cold the milk starts.
Can I meal prep hot chocolate?
Yes! For hot chocolate meal prep, combine cocoa powder, sugar (skip if using a liquid sweetener), and a pinch of salt in individual portions. Heat your chosen milk, mix in the ingredients, and add maple syrup or honey. Enjoy a quick and comforting treat anytime!
If you love this recipe, try these next!
- Oat Milk Hot Chocolate
- Nut-Free Protein Bars
- Protein Brownies
- Protein Mug Cake
- Protein Microwave Baked Oats
- Protein Cookie Dough
Did you make this recipe?
If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don't forget to tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!
📖 Recipe
Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk, almond, oat milk, or cow's milk
- 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder, (pea protein or whey protein)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, Dutch cocoa for a richer flavor
- 1 tablespoon sweetener of choice, (honey, granulated sugar, or maple syrup)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, optional
- Topping Ideas: mini marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate shavings
Instructions
Stove Top:
- Heat your preferred milk (almond, oat, or cow's milk) in a small pot over medium-low heat. Be cautious not to let the milk boil, as it may burn.
- Gently whisk in the chocolate protein powder, Dutch cocoa powder, sweetener of choice, and optional vanilla extract until well combined.
- Taste the hot chocolate and adjust the sweetness if needed. Every protein powder brand is different, so you can add more milk if it is too thick.
- Pour into a mug and serve immediately. Top it with whipped cream, toasted or mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings.
Microwave:
- In a microwave-safe mug, combine 1 cup of your preferred milk, chocolate protein powder, Dutch cocoa powder, sweetener of choice, and optional vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure the protein powder is fully dissolved.
- Microwave the mixture on high for 1-2 minutes or until the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature. Pause and stir every 30 seconds to prevent overflow. Every protein powder brand is different, so you can add more milk if it is too thick.
- Allow the hot chocolate to cool for a moment before enjoying it.
- Serve immediately and top with your choice of whipped cream, toasted or mini marshmallows, and chocolate shavings.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
I only recommend products I love and use myself. In full disclosure, I may receive a small compensation for purchasing a product I recommend. Thank you for supporting Healthful Blondie!
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Jenna Shirkey says
truly the best hot cocoa, i've been making it every night SO GOOD
millie says
This was a great! I used water instead of milk (for lower calories). I also used Optimum Nutrition Extreme Milk Chocolate protein powder and swerve granular sugar. While no it's not your traditional hot chocolate, it fills the craving and is pretty dang good!!
Alexandria says
Tastes much better than just warming it up like I was doing!
Tati Chermayeff says
Hi Alexandria! I am sooo happy to hear that 🙂 I love this recipe!! Let me know if you try anything else on my blog
Kelli says
I made this recipe and it curdled in the pan, I tried twice and both times it seemed like the protein powder separated from the milk and it was a chunky gross mess. Any tips? Thanks!
Tati Chermayeff says
Hi Kelli! Did you mix the protein powder in when it was chilled or warmed? Also what type of protein powder are you using?
Jess says
Same thing happened to me. A curled gross mess. What a waste of ingredients. I used Isopure whey protein isolate dutch cocoa protein powder
Tati Chermayeff says
Hi Jess, this could happen if you heated the milk up too much. it needs to be a low heat and then whisk the protein powder in. That said, every protein powder is different, so some qualities won't emulsify correctly.
Jaz says
Omg so good! I love how its higher in protein!! will be on repewt this winter 🙂
Tati Chermayeff says
YAY! Thank you for this kind review 🙂
Amanda T. says
Just made this recipe and it has blown my mind 🤯🤯 it is SO DELICIOUS and SO CREAMY. You almost feel guilty drinking it, but it's protein and low-cal sweetner. 100/10.
Tati Chermayeff says
Hi! So happy to hear that 🙂 one of my top favorite recipes!!