The Best Collagen Hot Chocolate Recipe
One of my favorite evening rituals is indulging in a cozy cup of healthy collagen hot chocolate to wind down the day. It’s a satisfying way to curb chocolate cravings while supporting muscle recovery, as collagen supplementation provides protein that aids muscle repair during sleep.
Plus, this version contains no white sugar, making it perfect for those with a sweet tooth who are also mindful of their weight loss goals.
This recipe aligns beautifully with a flexitarian lifestyle. While you can use plant-based milk to suit your preferences, keep in mind that collagen, as a dietary supplement, is only sourced from animals such as bovine, marine, or poultry, and is not available in a plant-based form.
Ingredients For This Healthy Collagen Hot Chocolate
Hot Chocolate Mix
- I use my Easy Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix (Dairy-free and Less Sugar). It is made with natural ingredients: coconut sugar, coconut milk powder, cocoa powder, and sea salt.
- Option to use your favorite store bought hot chocolate mix.
Collagen Powder
- Chocolate collagen powder adds flavor and 11g of protein per serving (Earth Fed Muscle is my favorite).
- For unflavored options, try Vital Proteins Bovine or Marine Collagen varieties.
Milk Options
- Use your favorite milk or milk alternative:
- Dairy options: 2% milk or whole milk.
- Plant-based favorites: almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
Optional Additions
- Flavor boosters: sea salt, cinnamon, fresh nutmeg.
- Need more sweet? Sweeten naturally with a drizzle of maple syrup.
How To Make Collagen Hot Chocolate in 5 easy Steps
- Heat the Milk in the Microwave:
- Pour 6–8 oz of milk into a large, microwave-safe mug (big enough to prevent sloshing during step 3).
- Heat on high for 1–1.5 minutes, or until hot but not boiling. Add water at this stage if desired.
- Add Powders on Top:
- Sprinkle the hot chocolate mix and chocolate collagen powder directly onto the hot milk.
- Blend with a Milk Frother:
- Use a milk frother to mix everything until smooth and creamy. Tip: Use a gentle motion to avoid splashing if your mug isn’t large enough.
- Optional: Add Sea Salt:
- Stir or froth in 1/4 tsp sea salt for a sweet-salty twist.
- Top with Whipped Cream or Cold Foam:
- For whipped cream: Add a dollop on top of the hot chocolate.
- For cold foam: Froth 1–2 tbsp milk or heavy cream in a frother, then gently spoon it over the drink.
Serve and Enjoy: Sip your frothy, luxurious collagen hot chocolate, perfect for a cozy treat! This method ensures a mess-free experience with an indulgent finish from the toppings.
Customization and Tips
Flexitarian Customization Ideas
- Plant-Based Adjustments: Swap in oat, almond, or soy milk for a vegan-friendly version. Oat milk is a great option for its creaminess, while almond milk adds subtle earthy flavors.
- Natural Sweetness: Opt for maple syrup, honey, or stevia as alternatives to refined sugar. These provide natural sweetness without compromising on flavor.
- Allergy-Friendly Notes: Avoid adverse reactions by using nut-free milks like oat or rice milk, and choose certified gluten-free ingredients for those with sensitivities. Soy-free options like coconut milk are another great option.
Tips for Adding Collagen to Hot Beverages:
- Stir Well: To avoid clumping, stir collagen powder thoroughly into your drink. Using a frother or blender can help it dissolve completely.
- Avoid Boiling: While collagen is heat-stable, it’s best to add it after the liquid has been heated to your desired drinking temperature, rather than boiling it, to preserve its quality.
- Flavor Consideration: Most collagen powders are flavorless, but some come with added flavors or sweeteners. Choose one that complements your beverage.
Collagen Tips For The Perfect Hot Drink
- Blending Tips: Use a frother or whisk to mix thoroughly for a creamy and smooth hot drink. Proper blending ensures all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Flavor Boosters: Enhance your hot chocolate with a pinch of cinnamon, a splash of vanilla extract, or a sprinkle of sea salt to balance the level of sweetness.
- Topping Ideas: Take your hot drink to the next level with fun toppings like marshmallows, grated chocolate, fresh cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a sprinkle of cacao nibs for extra flavor and texture.
Collagen Protein in Hot Beverages: Key Facts
- Health Benefits: Supports muscle recovery, improves skin health, strengthens hair, promotes joint, connective tissue, and bone health.
- Heat Stability: Collagen peptides (hydrolyzed collagen) remain stable at typical beverage temperatures (<300°F/150°C). Research shows they can even withstand up to 572°F (300°C) for short periods.
- Misconceptions: While prolonged high heat (e.g., baking) may reduce some functional properties, collagen stays stable and bioavailable in hot drinks like hot chocolate, coffee, or tea.
Takeaway: Collagen is safe and effective in hot beverages. For extra peace of mind, add it to slightly cooled liquids, but this step is generally unnecessary. Trust scientific evidence, not social media myths!
More Delicious Drink Recipes
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How To Make An Easy Kombucha Mocktail
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The Best Collagen Hot Chocolate
Equipment
- milk frother or whisk
- large microwave safe mug
- measuring spoons
- spoon
- microwave
- grater optional
Ingredients
- 2 tsp hot chocolate mix
- 2 tbsp chocolate collagen powder
- 6 oz 2% milk
- 4 oz water
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- whipped cream, marshamallows, or cold foam optional
Instructions
Heat the Milk in the Microwave:
- Pour 6–8 oz of milk into a large, microwave-safe mug (big enough to prevent sloshing). Heat on high for 1–1.5 minutes, or until hot but not boiling. Add water at this stage if desired.
Add Powders on Top:
- Sprinkle the hot chocolate mix and chocolate collagen powder directly onto the hot milk.
Blend with a Milk Frother:
- Use a milk frother to mix everything until smooth and creamy. Tip: Use a gentle motion to avoid splashing if your mug isn’t large enough.
Optional: Add Sea Salt:
- Stir or froth in 1/4 tsp sea salt for a sweet-salty twist.
Optional Top with Whipped Cream, Marshmallows, or Cold Foam:
- For whipped cream: Add a dollop on top of the hot chocolate. For cold foam: Froth 1–2 tbsp milk or heavy cream in a frother, then gently spoon it over the drink.
Notes
Nutrition
Sources:
- Wang, S. X., & Liu, L. (2020). Factors Affecting Thermal Stability of Collagen. Journal of Leather Science and Engineering.
https://jlse.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s42825-020-00033-0 - Shoulders, M. D., & Raines, R. T. (2009). Collagen Structure and Stability. Annual Review of Biochemistry, 78(1), 929–958.
https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev.biochem.77.032207.120833 - Natural Force. (2023). Does Heat Damage Collagen Supplements?
https://naturalforce.com/blogs/nutrition/collagen-supplements-does-heat-damage - Cheng, F., et al. (2022). Thermal Stability of Collagen in Food and Health Products. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(4), 2040.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/4/2040
Hi, I’m Sarah Harper, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about cooking, eating, and sharing all things food! At The Addy Bean, you’ll find a variety of flexitarian recipes designed to inspire and empower you to explore the delicious world of plant-based eating. My mission is to make plant-forward meals approachable, enjoyable, and part of your everyday life!
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