This rich and smooth hot chocolate comes packed with 19 grams protein and ZERO added sugar. Have this as a little after dinner treat to help you hit your protein goals while also satisfying your sweet tooth.
It’s hot chocolate season. Time to get cozy, throw on some Christmas music and snuggle up with a steaming cup of hot cocoa while you sit by the fire.
But we’re not talking about any old hot chocolate. Did you know that most pre-packaged hot chocolate mixes have about 23 grams of added sugar per serving?! Talk about a sugar high!
Instead, you can make a high protein, zero added sugar hot chocolate that makes you feel satisfied, gives you all those winter vibes and supports your weight loss and wellness goals.
In the past, I’ve shared my regular hot chocolate recipe as well as my pumpkin spice hot chocolate.
But today, I’m sharing an extra seasonal option.
Meet my Peppermint Hot Chocolate recipe!
Tips From The Nutritionist
Autumn Bates, CCN, MS, BS, CPT
Haven’t hit your protein needs for the day? This simple and satisfying dessert is the perfect way to sneak in an extra 19 grams.
Key Ingredients:
Chocolate Protein Powder
My pasture-raised chocolate protein powder has zero added sugar and is made with 100% whey protein isolate. This is the lowest lactose form of whey, making it the best whey protein for those who are lactose intolerant.
We lightly sweeten our protein powder with monk fruit, which is a natural zero sugar sweetener. This provides a hint of sweetness for your hot cocoa but without the sugar bomb that typical hot chocolate provides.
I specifically developed all of my protein powders to actually taste great in recipes. Most protein powders are packed with either sugar or artificial flavors that overpower recipes. My protein powder was designed to compliment the natural, wholesome ingredients it’s used with, not overpower it.
Grab my Chocolate Protein Powder HERE.
Whole Milk
Did you know that whole milk is inversely associated with obesity?
This means that people who drink whole milk instead of low fat milk are less likely to be obese.
Whole milk is also significantly higher in vitamin K2 than low fat milk. Vitamin K2 is a crucial vitamin that helps get calcium out of the arteries and into the bones. This makes it both heart health and bone protective.
If you’re lactose intolerant and can’t drink whole milk, you can either try a lactose free whole milk or swap it out for an equivalent amount of almond or coconut milk. The nut milk alternatives won’t provide the protein or nutrients that milk does, but it will still make a great, low glycemic swap for your hot cocoa.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
We use cocoa powder in our Chocolate Protein Powder for that natural chocolate-y goodness. But I’ve found adding just a touch more to this recipe helps to add the extra rich chocolate-y flavor you expect in a hot chocolate.
I like to opt for an unsweetened cocoa powder to keep this recipe zero added sugar.
Peppermint Extract or Flavor
To bring in the holiday cheer, we’re adding just a few drops of peppermint. You can use either peppermint extract or flavor. I personally use peppermint flavor from the brand Frontier Co-op. You can find it HERE.
Start with only a few drops of peppermint flavor and add more according to your preferences. It’s strong stuff, so a little goes a long way. You can always add more if you prefer it a little more pepperminty, but you can’t take it away once it’s added in.
Storing and Reheating
This recipe is best immediately after it’s made. Nobody wants cold hot chocolate!
Ingredient Swaps
- Whole milk: If you’re carb sensitive, I recommend opting for almond milk or coconut milk. However, if choosing one of these options instead of whole milk, keep in mind that the total protein content will be 10 grams instead of 19 grams.
Love this recipe? Let me know in the comments below!
Peppermint Protein Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Ingredients
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- 1 scoop Autumn's Chocolate Protein Powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1-8 drops peppermint extract
Whipped Cream
- 1 half pint heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the whipped cream: In a small bowl, add the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Use a hand mixer and mix on high until stiff peaks form. Set to the side while you prepare the hot chocolate.
- Make the hot chocolate: Add all hot chocolate ingredients in a small pot over medium-low heat. Whisk to combine. Heat for 2-3 minutes, whisking occasionally, until your protein powder and cocoa are entirely dissolved and the hot chocolate is warm.
- Top with a few tablespoons of whipped cream. Store leftover whipped cream in the fridge for up to 4 days. (This is great added into black coffee, too!)
Notes
- The whipped cream makes about 8 servings, so save the extra in a sealed glass container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Make sure to not allow the milk to get too hot, as milk can curdle at higher temperatures. If your stove top heats quickly or runs on the warm side, keep the temperature at the low setting.
Equipment
Nutrition
Did you try this recipe?
Don’t forget to leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
