This high-protein hot chocolate is rich, creamy, and ready in under 5 minutes. With over 30 grams of protein, this healthy hot cocoa is made with chocolate protein powder in your microwave or stovetop.
Homemade hot chocolate with protein powder
I could honestly live on this protein-packed hot chocolate. It’s the epitome of creamy, comforting goodness, and the fact that it’s secretly healthy is the cherry on top! Clocking in at 30 grams of protein and just 215 calories, this hot cocoa is a true delight.
While my love for classic hot chocolate will never fade, this protein version has become my daily go-to lately. It’s the ideal healthy, low-calorie nightcap dessert loaded with protein, satisfying my daily goals.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just four ingredients: milk (I prefer almond or oat milk), cocoa powder, chocolate protein powder, and honey (or maple syrup). Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up, whether in the microwave or on the stovetop.
I cannot wait to hear your thoughts about this high-protein hot chocolate. It’s become my daily go-to, and I’m super pumped to share the recipe with you!
Why you’ll love this high-protein recipe:
- High-Protein: A satisfying and protein-packed treat with over 30 grams per serving.
- Quick & Easy: This hot chocolate is so easy to make in 5 minutes.
- Easy Prep: You can make this hot cocoa 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.
- 100% Vegan: This protein hot chocolate is entirely plant-based.
- Ultimate Customization: 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: Choose any milk from almond, oat, or cow’s milk.
- Chocolate Protein Powder: Adds protein content and a rich chocolate flavor to the hot chocolate. You can use pea or whey protein powder for this recipe.
- Cocoa Powder: Intensifies the chocolatey taste; Dutch cocoa is recommended for a deeper flavor.
- Sweetener: Enhances sweetness; you only need 1 tablespoon of honey, granulated sugar, or maple syrup.
- Vanilla Extract (Optional): Adds a hint of vanilla flavor for extra depth (optional based on preference).
- 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 protein hot chocolate
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 any level cook can make 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 stovetop.
Step 2: stovetop instructions
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: microwave instructions
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
- Temperature Control: When heating the milk, avoid boiling it. Overheating and burning the milk will cause a bitter taste. Aim for a gentle, simmering heat.
- Choose Any Milk: Use your favorite milk—oat, almond, cashew, cow’s, or skim. This recipe is flexible to suit your taste.
- Pea or Whey Protein Powder: Pick a high-quality chocolate protein powder, whether it’s pea or whey, for a smooth taste.
- Frothy Hot Chocolate: Make it creamier by frothing the milk with a frother or blending 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 & 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 a dash of cayenne pepper for a spiced hot chocolate experience.
- Coconut Bliss: Use coconut milk for a tropical, thicker, and more indulgent hot chocolate.
- Dark Chocolate: Use 2 – 3 tbsp of melted dark chocolate chips or chunks instead of cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
- Dairy-Free Options: Use your favorite plant-based milk for a completely dairy-free version.
- Low-Calorie Variation: Use a low-calorie sweetener and almond milk to create a guilt-free, low-calorie hot chocolate under 200 calories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this hot chocolate vegan?
Make this protein hot chocolate vegan 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.
Is there a substitute for chocolate protein powder?
You can use regular protein powder or skip it for a classic hot chocolate. Feel free to use whey or pea protein for this hot chocolate recipe.
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.
Can I make this hot chocolate in advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and mix them with hot milk when you’re ready to enjoy. Keep any toppings separate until serving.
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 in 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.
How to meal prep hot chocolate:
Combine cocoa powder, sugar (skip if using a liquid sweetener), and a pinch of salt in individual portions for hot chocolate meal prep. Heat your chosen milk, mix in the ingredients, and add maple syrup or honey to the milk. 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
- Banana Mango Strawberry Smoothie
- Protein French Toast
- Protein Overnight Oats
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!
Protein Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk, almond, oat milk, or cow’s milk
- 1 scoop of chocolate protein powder, (pea protein or whey protein)
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder, Dutch cocoa for a richer flavor
- 1 tbsp sweetener of choice, (honey, granulated sugar, or maple syrup)
- ¼ tsp 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.
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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