Protein Hot Chocolate

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  1.3 cup 2% Milk
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  25 g Whey protein powder (vanilla)

  Use whey isolate for cooking. Vanilla flavor is most versatile.

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  2.5 tsp Cocoa Powder, Unsweetened
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  1.5 tsp Maple syrup
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  Tiny pinch kosher salt
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  1 tbsp Chocolate, Dark, 70-85% Cacao
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  0.3 tsp Vanilla extract
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  Marshmallows or whipped cream (for serving)

Instructions

1. 1Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until steam rises from the surface, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.
2. 2Add the cocoa powder, vanilla whey protein powder, maple syrup, and kosher salt to the warm milk, whisking continuously for 2–3 minutes until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. Do not allow the milk to boil.
3. 3Chop the dark chocolate into small pieces and add to the saucepan, whisking continuously over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich, homogeneous mixture.
4. 4Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. 5Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup if desired.
6. 6Pour into a mug and top with marshmallows or whipped cream, then serve immediately while hot.