Sometimes, it feels almost silly to write a recipe for something that is so simple to make. Though, as simple as something may sound to me, maybe it’s not a given for others. I’ve been making a sugar-free protein hot chocolate for so long now that I think it’s necessary I share it.
As far as I’ve seen, there are two camps: those who like cooking with protein powder and those who don’t care for it. For this recipe, you’ll need to be in the first camp because protein powder is essential to the sugar-free protein hot chocolate. BTW I like this brand of protein powder.
I’ll explain why I’m using protein powder:
Protein powder naturally has thickening properties so this helps give the beverage some body without making it heavy on milk.
It is also necessary for the sweetness factor. We’re not adding any sugar to this hot chocolate so we’re relying on the sweetener from the protein powder.
I’m a fan of drinking this when I want to get my protein in after a workout but don’t feel like swallowing a cold smoothie. #wintervibes
I’ve also been known to make this beverage in the afternoon for a natural pick-me-up. The cacao powder provides a mental energy boost and the protein helps tie me over ’til dinner.
Lastly, I love using this raw cacao with golden milk spices added. It makes for a hot chocolate with a lot of depth! If you don’t have this kind, regular cacao powder will do.
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup water
- 1 1/2 tbsp cacao powder (not cocoa powder!)
- 1 scoop (about 1/3 cup) chocolate protein powder
- A tiny pinch of sea salt (optional)
- Sprinkle of cinnamon and tumeric (optional)
- Add the milk and water to a pan and heat until it begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil!
- In a mug, add your protein powder, cacao powder (I use 1 ½ tbsp but scale down if your protein powder has a very strong chocolate taste.), and sea salt (if using).
- Pour the liquid into your mug and whisk until no clumps are left. At this point, you can sprinkle in a bit of cinnamon and turmeric on top. If using regular cacao powder, cinnamon and chili powder would taste good, instead!
Even if you don’t follow this recipe exactly, I hope you give it a try. If a protein hot chocolate appeals to you then be sure to comment below or tag me on Instagram with your sugar-free protein hot chocolate recipes!
Xoxo,
Melanie