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Protein Hot Chocolate (with Collagen)

By Lilly Drucis

December 17, 2025

It’s the season of hot chocolate. Frankly, any time it’s chilly outside is justification for a delicious cup of hot chocolate.

The only issue, of course, is that most hot chocolates are loaded with sugar and low in protein. So they may “hit the spot” but also set you up for a crash and burn in terms of your blood sugar and energy levels.

Instead, try this high-protein hot chocolate recipe that leverages collagen protein powder with several classic hot chocolate ingredients.

Each 241 calorie serving of this protein hot chocolate contains 17 grams of protein, 23 grams of carbohydrates and 8 grams of fat. We’re talking about a perfectly balanced macronutrient treat that will satiate and delight.

In fact, we’d argue that this is the healthiest hot chocolate you can make. In fact, it contains over 20 percent Daily Value (DV) of 8 vitamins and minerals. More on that later.

Why you’ll love this recipe

• High in protein: This hot chocolate boasts 17 grams per serving.

• Easy to make and fast: It’ll be ready in under 5 minutes.

• Easy prep: Only requires one big mug (and a small pot if you make on the stovetop).

• Loaded with nutrients: Contains over 20 percent DV of 8 vitamins and minerals.

• Balanced in macros: 23 grams of carbs, 8 grams of fat, 17 grams of protein.

• Creamy and rich: Sweet but not too sweet, it also features a smooth texture that you appreciate each sip.

Protein hot chocolate ingredients

Overall, just seven ingredients, with two additional ones if you choose. Each serves a purpose for both this protein hot chocolate’s flavor, texture and nutrition.

Here are the key ingredients for this high-protein chocolate:

• Milk: You can go with regular milk or plant-based milk (almond or oat work best). This recipe below uses reduced fat milk. Reduced-fat milk supplies high-quality complete protein for muscle maintenance along with calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D to support strong bones and teeth.

• Multi Collagen Protein Chocolate powder: This collagen powder is hydrolyzed and mixes easily, plus it contains 10 types of protein to benefit the skin, hair, joints and gut. Adding collagen also boosts the protein content of the drink, which helps promote satiety and supports muscle recovery without significantly altering blood sugar.

• Brown sugar: A small amount of brown sugar adds sweetness and improves flavor while contributing quick-digesting carbohydrates for immediate energy. Because the amount is modest, it enhances palatability without significantly spiking overall sugar intake.

• Cacao powder: Cacao powder is rich in polyphenols and flavanols, antioxidants that support heart health. It also delivers deep chocolate flavor with minimal added sugar or fat.

These ingredients make for one of the healthiest hot chocolates you could ever hope to make. Each serving contains over 90 percent Daily Value (DV) of vitamin C (thanks to the collagen), 81 percent DV of vitamin B12, 62 percent DV of vitamin B2, 51 percent DV of phosphorus, 45 percent DV of calcium and 30 percent DV of vitamin D.

How to make high-protein hot chocolate

Pour the reduced-fat milk into a large, microwave-safe mug and heat for 1½–3 minutes, or until steaming hot but not boiling over. Carefully remove the mug from the microwave, then add the chocolate collagen protein, sugar and cacao powder.

(You can also make in a medium-sized saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk vigorously to combine well and get rid of any lumps. It’s important to not let the milk boil, as that can burn the mixture and spoil the batch.)

Using an electric frother or whisk, blend thoroughly until the protein and cacao are fully dissolved and the hot chocolate becomes smooth and creamy with a light foam on top. Finish by topping with marshmallows, if desired, and enjoy immediately while warm.

Protein chocolate variations

• Use other types of milk: You can use reduced fat or whole milk or a plant-based milk such as oat or almond. Skim milk is not recommended, as it doesn't whip very well and it's as satisfying.

• Substitute other protein powders: Multi Collagen Advanced Lean powder (cinnamon) and Chocolate Whey Protein powder both make for excellent substitutes.

• Add holiday spice: Consider adding pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, cinnamon or even some cayenne.

• Froth it further: Use a blender or frother to whip it up more if you want.

Other healthy chocolate-based recipes

• Protein brownies

• Skillet brownie

• Flourless chocolate cake

• Mexican chocolate cake

• Chocolate collagen donuts

Lilly Drucis is a recipe developer who specializes in healthy recipes and can be followed at https://www.instagram.com/lilsfitlife/