Protein hot chocolate is a great option for pre and post-op bariatric surgery patients. The warmth is soothing while getting in additional protein and can satisfy sweet cravings.

The key to a good protein hot chocolate is the type of protein you use and not using water or milk over 140F.

For years I’ve utilized the protein cocoa packets you can buy online like this…(click blue text for link).

I’ve always LOVED the Creamy Hot Cocoa and I’ve used it for an afternoon pick-me-up or a late-night sweet treat in the cooler months.

A protein hot chocolate is typically suitable on the pre and post-surgical diets for bariatric patients but always be sure to double-check with your personal program.

Sometimes, however, you don’t happen to have that envelope of Creamy Hot Cocoa with 15 grams of protein!

This is the variation I’ve played with through the years when I didn’t have the yummy packages on hand. I still love the packaged kind because of 1) convenience and 2) they come in different flavors.

Note: I used Quest Chocolate Protein powder for my hot cocoa and it was creamy and delicious. It did, however, need to be stirred up frequently while drinking to keep it smooth as it tends to clump up if it’s been sitting.

You could use a milk frother or an immersion blender to help make your cocoa more smooth.

Another great product is Unjury Whey Protein or Quest Whey Protein.

For more information on the bariatric surgery diet, find out how you can work with me!

Check out more high-protein recipes right here in my recipe library for patients who have had bariatric surgery or using Anti-Obesity Medications.

ANOTHER Note: This Creamy Hot Cocoa recipe is for a low-calorie hot chocolate if you need to satisfy your sweet tooth but don’t need any additional protein.

Updated February 2024

Protein Hot Chocolate

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American, No Cook

Servings: 1 serving

Calories: 145kcal

Author: Steph Wagner

Print Recipe [wprm-recipe-shop-instacart-api style=”inline-button” icon=”cart-simple-add” border_radius=”50px” button_color=”#e3853b” border_color=”#e3853b”]

Ingredients

• 1 scoop chocolate whey protein powder
• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 tsp unsweet cocoa powder

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Instructions

• Combine all ingredients in a small sauce pot and pout on medium heat. (Do not boil. Protein powder will clump if the liquid is more than 140 degrees F)
• Stir consistently while mixture heats thoroughly, about 3 minutes. Scoop out a tiny portion to taste and test heat. Remove from heat and pour into mug. Sip and enjoy.

Notes

Different protein powders will change the nutrition profile. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1shake | Calories: 145kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 24g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 379mg | Potassium: 105mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 80IU | Calcium: 405mg | Iron: 2mg