This rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe contains 12 grams of protein, making it the perfect drink to enjoy during the cold winter months when you're craving a nostalgic hot cocoa but with a healthy and nutritious boost!
As a kid, there were few things I loved more than coming home after playing in the freezing snow and sipping on a cup of hot chocolate with the whole family. It warmed me up and satisfied my sweet tooth all at the same time.
What I didn't realize back then is that my fondest hot chocolate memories came from mixes containing preservatives and artificial sweeteners and colors. It is definitely time to scrap the hot chocolate mix and make your own!
Nowadays I enjoy hot chocolate that uses real, simple ingredients that I actually feel good about. My blender hot chocolate is made up of just water, cacao powder, Medjool dates, almonds, vanilla and salt and it is seriously out of this world.
My latest project for this winter season was to build on that vegan recipe to add some extra protein for after an active day out in the cold, whether it be sledding with the kids or an intense outdoor run. After a few attempts, I landed on the most delicious and healthy hot chocolate recipe!
Ingredients
The protein powder affects the texture and flavor. There are so many different types of protein powder (e.g., hemp, pumpkin seed, whey, casein, pea protein), each of which has its own consistency and flavor profile. It all boils down to preference so feel free to use your favorite one. I use pumpkin seed protein from Sprout Living because it is vegan and contains no flavoring, additives or gums.
Instructions
1. Blend the ingredients.
2. Taste and adjust.
3. Enjoy!
More Healthy Warm Winter Beverages
I hope you enjoy this protein hot chocolate recipe! Please comment below and tag me @eatingbyelaine as I always value your feedback. Happy winter!
5-Minute High Protein Hot Chocolate
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe contains 12 grams of protein, making it the perfect drink to enjoy during the cold winter months when you're craving a nostalgic hot cocoa but with a healthy and nutritious boost!
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups boiling water - use an electric kettle or the stovetop
- 6 soft pitted Medjool dates
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons good quality unsweetened cocoa powder (or cacao powder for double the protein of cocoa powder)
- 1 scoop unflavored, unsweetened plain protein powder (or 3 tablespoons hemp hearts)
- 1 tablespoon raw creamy almond butter (or any nut or seed butter: tahini, cashew butter etc.)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt
Instructions
- Blend. Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender and blend until completely smooth (about 40 seconds on the highest speed setting).
- Taste. Adjust the sweetness if desired.
- Serve. Pour into mugs and serve piping hot. Garnish with coconut whipped cream and/or dark chocolate shavings if desired.
Equipment
Buy Now → Notes
Feel free to use non-dairy milk instead of hot water to boost the protein further.
- Prep Time: 5
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blender
MacKenzie says
I love this hot chocolate it’s packed with flavor and I can’t get over that. It has extra protein in it. This recipe is perfect for the new year. I am always trying to add in more protein.
Elaine Gordon says
So happy you enjoyed it and is helping with your protein intake. Thank you for sharing MacKenzie!