Protein Hot Chocolate Cup

This cozy Protein Hot Chocolate is the perfect way to treat yourself while still meeting your nutrition goals. Creamy, chocolatey, and packed with protein, it keeps you full and satisfied on chilly mornings or after workouts. When I first whipped up a mug of this after a late gym session, I could not believe something so decadent could also be good for me.

My friends always request this after winter walk meet ups so it quickly became my go to when I want to feel both indulgent and nourished

Ingredients

• Milk: I prefer 2 percent Fairlife but any milk works Choose one with a creamy texture for best results
• Chocolate protein powder: This gives the drink its staying power Look for one with good flavor and minimal artificial sweeteners I like AboutTime
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Boosts the chocolate flavor Make sure it is fresh for richest taste
• Pure maple syrup: Balances the chocolate with gentle sweetness You can adjust to taste Choose pure syrup not imitation
• Kosher salt: Just a pinch makes the chocolate notes pop
• Chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips: Melts into the hot drink for added richness Use a high quality bar or real dark chips for best texture
• Marshmallows or whipped cream: Optional but so good for topping Use fresh fluffy marshmallows or real whipped cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Warm the Base:

In a small saucepan pour in the milk Then whisk in the protein powder cocoa powder maple syrup and salt Set over medium high heat and whisk until the mixture is steaming and completely smooth Watch carefully and do not let it come to a boil as that can cause graininess

Melt the Chocolate:

Add the chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips plus a splash of vanilla if you wish Continue whisking over the heat until the chocolate is fully melted and the drink looks shiny and uniform

Sweeten and Serve:

Taste the hot chocolate If you want it sweeter whisk in a little more maple syrup immediately Pour into your favorite mug and serve hot topped with marshmallows whipped cream or both

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My favorite part of this recipe is how silky it turns out with high quality dark chocolate It reminds me of snow days when the kitchen would fill with chocolatey steam and we would pile on toppings after sledding

Storage tips

Let leftover hot chocolate come to room temperature before storing Cover and refrigerate for up to three days When ready to enjoy again reheat gently on the stove over low heat whisking nonstop to restore its smoothness You may need to add a splash of extra milk if it thickens

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap dairy milk for your favorite plant based option Use oat milk for extra creaminess or almond milk for a lighter version If you only have vanilla protein powder reduce the maple syrup to avoid it getting too sweet Chopped semisweet chocolate works if you do not have dark chocolate just taste as you go since it may be sweeter

Serving suggestions

Top each mug with regular or mini marshmallows whipped cream or even a sprinkle of cinnamon For extra richness drop in a square of dark chocolate just before serving A dusting of cocoa powder or chocolate shavings makes any mug look special

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Cultural context

Hot chocolate has comforted people for centuries This high protein version blends modern nutrition with timeless comfort Whether you enjoy it as a dessert breakfast or a post workout reward it brings the familiar joy of childhood with a nourishing twist

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use any type of milk?

Absolutely! You can use dairy or plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or soy, to suit your taste or dietary needs.

→ What kind of protein powder works best?

Chocolate-flavored protein powder is recommended for the richest result, but you can substitute with other flavors if desired.

→ How do I adjust the sweetness?

Simply add more maple syrup or a sweetener of your choice to taste after mixing and before serving.

→ Can this be prepared in advance?

Yes, store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove and whisk to restore creaminess.

→ What toppings go well with this drink?

Classic options like marshmallows or whipped cream are delicious, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips adds extra indulgence.