This creamy protein hot chocolate is an easy, dairy-free way to enjoy a warm chocolate drink while adding more protein to your day. Made with simple ingredients and ready in about 5 minutes, it’s a great option for an afternoon snack or evening treat that feels familiar but a little more balanced. Each serving provides 10 grams of protein, helping make this hot chocolate more satisfying than traditional versions.
Instead of heavy cream or processed mixes, this recipe uses almond milk, cacao powder, and chocolate protein powder for a smooth, rich texture without being overly sweet. A small amount of honey, sea salt, and vanilla helps round out the flavor while keeping the ingredient list minimal.
Ingredients: Creamy Protein Hot Chocolate
Serves 2
- 2½ cups unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tbsp cacao powder
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- 1 tsp honey
- Pinch of sea salt
- Splash of vanilla extract
- Optional: marshmallows for topping
I use Truvani Chocolate Protein because it blends smoothly and has a clean ingredient list without artificial sweeteners or gums. Navitas Organic Cacao Powder adds a rich chocolate flavor without added sugar. For the base, Elmhurst Unsweetened Almond Milk is my go-to since it contains just two ingredients and creates a smooth, creamy texture. If you want to add marshmallows, Dandies Marshmallows are a solid option with simpler, cleaner ingredients than most traditional versions.
How to Make Protein Hot Chocolate
- Add the almond milk to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cacao powder, making sure it fully dissolves and no clumps remain.
- Add the chocolate protein powder, honey, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and fully combined.
- If the hot chocolate becomes too thick, add a small splash of almond milk and whisk again.
- Pour into two mugs, add marshmallows if desired, and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- Protein powders vary in thickness, so you may need to slightly adjust the amount of liquid depending on the brand you use.
- For a sugar free version, sub the honey for pure monk fruit
- This recipe serves 2 and can easily be doubled.
Love the Protein Hot Chocolate? Make these recipes next:
Anti-inflammatory Golden Milk Latte
Double Dark Chocolate Smoothie
Creamy Protein Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 2½ cups unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tbsp cacao powder
- 1 scoop chocolate protein powder
- 1 tsp honey
- Pinch sea salt
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- marshmallows for topping optional
Instructions
- Add the almond milk to a small saucepan and heat over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
- Whisk in the cacao powder until fully dissolved and smooth.
- Add the chocolate protein powder, honey, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
- Whisk continuously until the mixture is creamy and fully combined.
- Divide between two mugs and serve warm, adding marshmallows if desired.