A High Protein Hot Chocolate for Cold Winter Days
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There's something about a warm drink on a cold afternoon that just hits differently.
This one came from Dr Angela's own thermal flask. It started as a simple way to enjoy the Enlighten Me Chocolate Shake on a cooler day and quickly became a winter favourite.
No fancy equipment. No complicated steps.
Just a rich, creamy hot chocolate with at least 32 grams of protein per serve - and the option to keep it warm all afternoon in a flask.
What You'll Need
- 2 scoops Enlighten Me Chocolate Shake
- Warm water (around 300ml)
- Cacao powder - a small amount for a lighter flavour, or up to 2 teaspoons for something richer and more intense
- Optional: a splash of milk of your choice for extra creaminess
How to Make It
Add warm water to your flask or mug first, then add two scoops of the Enlighten Me Chocolate Shake. Stir or shake well until fully combined.
Add your cacao - starting with half a teaspoon and building to your preferred level of richness. Dr Angela's preference is around two teaspoons for a deeper, more indulgent flavour.
If you'd like it creamier, add a splash of milk at this point.
Pop the lid on your flask and it will stay warm for hours.
That's it.
Why Protein Matters in Winter
Some days, especially when it's cold, a chilled shake is simply the last thing you feel like.
And that's completely understandable. During winter, many of us naturally gravitate toward warmer, more comforting foods - which can sometimes mean protein intake quietly takes a back seat.
But protein remains just as important in the cooler months. It supports muscle mass, helps with fullness, and plays a key role in keeping energy steady throughout the day. For those managing their weight or navigating appetite changes, meeting protein goals consistently - even on cold, busy days - makes a meaningful difference.
This recipe is one of the simplest ways we've found to make that easy.
Warm, satisfying, and an easy way to support your protein intake on colder days.
Why Cacao?
Cacao is more than just flavour.
It's one of the richest natural sources of antioxidants, particularly a group of plant compounds called flavonoids. These have been studied for their potential role in supporting cardiovascular health and protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Cacao also contains magnesium - a mineral that supports muscle function, energy production and sleep - as well as natural compounds that can gently lift mood and mental alertness.
It's one of those ingredients that tastes indulgent and happens to offer genuine nutritional value alongside it.
A small amount adds flavour. A little more adds depth. Either way, it's a worthwhile addition.
The Flask Trick
This is the part we love most.
By making this in a thermal flask rather than a mug, you have a warm, high protein drink ready whenever you need it - whether that's mid-morning, after lunch, or as an afternoon pick-me-up when the cold sets in and energy starts to dip.
It travels with you. It stays warm. And it means you're never far from something nourishing on the days when everything else feels like too much effort.
A small habit that quietly supports your protein intake throughout the day.
Closing Reflection
Nourishing yourself well doesn't have to be complicated.
Sometimes it's as simple as a warm drink in a flask, a couple of scoops of something good, and a quiet moment in the middle of a busy day.
We hope this one becomes a winter staple.
