Protein Hot Chocolate Recipe

There has been a polar vortex all over the United States this month. Freezing temperatures, snow, and icy roads are happening in places you'd expect but also locations you would never expect (hello from southern Louisiana). This inspired us to make a popular winter beverage with a little healthy spin on it. Say hello to our protein hot chocolate recipe!

We have lived in cold climates like Pittsburgh, Chicago, and Michigan so we know what cold feels like. But believe it or not, Baton Rouge can get pretty cold. Is it the humidity? Maybe our bodies are used to the heat? Either way, temps dropped to below 20 a few nights and we. were. freezing.

Hot chocolate is a classic winter beverage but most hot chocolates are loaded with sugar. Since we are performance dietitians by day (and night because #sports), we love to put a healthy spin on things without sacrificing flavor and taste. Therefore, we came up with this protein hot chocolate recipe, and we must say, it hit the spot.

A few words on protein powder..

By using your favorite hot chocolate mix as part of the recipe, you still get the traditional sweetness and flavor; however, adding a scoop of your favorite chocolate protein powder gives it a boost of protein. By using protein powder and less hot cocoa mix, the added sugar content will decrease. We recommend using a protein powder that is mainly protein (read the Nutrition Facts label!) - some protein powders have lots of other ingredients that increase total calories and macros, and is third party tested. A couple of our favorites are here and here.

A big part of our jobs as performance dietitians is to evaluate and recommend supplements. The first thing we always look for is a third party testing certification like NSF for Sport or Informed Choice. Long story short, these companies test supplements to make sure what's on the label is actually in the supplement. Since supplements in the US are not regulated by the FDA, companies may or may not be giving you the full story on the label, so we just like to be sure! Even if you're not competing in sports or being drug tested regularly, it's always good to know what you're putting into your body. Okay. Nutrition rant over. But feel free to ask us questions in the comments if you have any 🙂

Now back to the recipe!

This protein hot chocolate recipe is super easy and has minimal steps. First, mix together the hot cocoa mix, protein powder, and cinnamon with your milk of choice. We use a shaker bottle to help get rid of any clumps that may form but a mixing bowl and whisk will work perfectly. Once combined, pour the liquid into a big mug and microwave until hot. Lastly, top with ample marshmallows!

We highly recommend turning on your favorite movie or show, putting on a pair of fuzzy socks, and getting cozy under a blanket while enjoying this protein hot chocolate. We promise it will make you forget the weather outside!

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