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High-Protein Hot Chocolate

By Holly Darnell, RD

November 15, 2024

It’s the season of hot chocolate. Frankly, any time it’s chilly outside is justification for a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

The only issue, of course, is that most hot chocolates are loaded with sugar and low in protein. So they may “hit the spot” but also set you up for a crash and burn in terms of your blood sugar and energy levels.

Instead, try this high-protein hot chocolate recipe that leverages collagen protein powder with several classic hot chocolate ingredients, with an assist from Fairlife® Reduced Fat Ultra-Filtered Milk (which is lactose-free and high in protein).

Each 246 calorie serving of this protein hot chocolate contains 24 grams of protein, 17 grams of carbohydrates (including just 10 grams of sugar) and 11 grams of fat. We’re talking about a perfectly balanced macronutrient treat that will satiate and delight.

In fact, we’d argue that this is the healthiest hot chocolate you can make. In fact, it contains over 20 percent Daily Value (DV) of 11 vitamins and minerals. More on that later.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• High in protein: This hot chocolate boasts 24 grams per serving.

• Easy to make and fast: It’ll be ready in under 10 minutes.

• Easy prep: Only requires one small pot.

• Loaded with nutrients: Contains over 20 percent DV of 11 vitamins and minerals.

• Balanced in macros: 17 grams of carbs, 11 grams of fat, 24 grams of protein.

• Creamy and rich: Sweet but not too sweet, it also features a smooth texture that you appreciate each sip.

Protein hot chocolate ingredients

Overall, just seven ingredients, with two additional ones if you choose. Each serves a purpose for both this protein hot chocolate’s flavor, texture and nutrition.

Here are the key ingredients for this high-protein chocolate:

• Milk: We recommend Fairlife® Reduced Fat Ultra-Filtered Milk because it’s high in protein, whips up nicely and is nutrient-dense for milk. It’s also lactose-free.

• Maple syrup: The ultimate natural sweetener, it doesn’t jack the blood sugar like regular sugar and contains some minerals.

• Vanilla extract: Adds some extra flavor that will be missed if you skip it.

• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Full of antioxidants and vital for that hot chocolate flavor.

• Multi Collagen Protein powder: This collagen powder is hydrolyzed and mixes easily, plus it contains 10 types of protein to benefit the skin, hair, joints and gut.

• 85 percent cacao chocolate: High in polyphenols and lower in sugar than regular chocolate, this type will elevate the flavor.

• Sea salt: Helps enhance the sweet profile of this hot chocolate.

• Whipped cream (optional): Many of us need a whipped topping to complete the hot chocolate experience. Opt for coconut whipped cream for more healthy fats.

• Marshmallows (optional): Organic varieties are now available.

These ingredients make for one of the healthiest hot chocolates you could ever hope to make. Each serving contains over 25 percent DV of the vitamins C, B12, B2 (riboflavin) and D. Mineral-wise, each serving contains over 20 percent DV of manganese, phosphorus, calcium, zinc, magnesium and selenium. Not bad!

How to make high-protein hot chocolate

Get out a medium-sized saucepan and add the milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, collagen powder, chocolate and sea salt. Place over medium-low heat.

Whisk vigorously to combine well and get rid of any lumps. It’s important to not let the milk boil, as that can burn the mixture and spoil the batch.

Sample the hot chocolate with a spoon to see if it’s sweet enough for you. If not, add a little more maple syrup and whisk again.

Once the hot chocolate is hot, remove it from the heat and pour into two mugs. Optionally top with whipped cream, marshmallows or chocolate shavings.

Protein chocolate variations

• Use other types of milk: You can use regular milk or a plant-based milk, but most types won’t whip up as well as Fairlife®.

• Substitute other protein powders: Multi Collagen Advanced Lean powder (cinnamon) and Chocolate Whey Protein powder both make for excellent substitutes.

• Add holiday spice: Consider adding pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, cinnamon or even some cayenne.

• Froth it further: Use a blender or frother to whip it up more if you want.

Other healthy chocolate-based recipes

• Protein brownies

• Skillet brownie

• Flourless chocolate cake

• Mexican chocolate cake

• Chocolate collagen donuts

• Hot chocolate with Bone Broth Protein

Recipe developed by Holly Darnell, RD. Holly is a registered dietitian nutritionist who unlocked self-love at the intersection of exceptional food and practical solutions for healthy living. She’s passionate about helping others make simple, positive lifestyle changes on their individual path to healing.