DIY Protein-Boosted Hot Chocolate Mix

There’s something so comforting about a warm mug of hot chocolate on a cool winter day — and this DIY version is not only delicious, it’s also nourishing, naturally sweetened, and gives you a gentle protein boost thanks to gut-loving gelatin.

I love making a jar of this mix at the start of winter — it saves time and money, and means creamy, cozy hot chocolates are always just a few minutes away. No additives, no fillers — just real ingredients you can feel good about.

This recipe is super adaptable too. Start with a simple base of cacao, gelatin, and coconut sugar, then mix in your favourite add-ins like cinnamon, maca, or vanilla to suit your taste.

Why I Love This Mix:

• Time-saving: Make one jar and enjoy quick hot chocolates all season long.

• Budget-friendly: Skip the expensive health food store versions.

• Nourishing: Gelatin adds a gentle boost of protein and supports gut health.

• Kid-approved: Adjust the sweetness and spice to suit little ones.

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DIY Protein-Boosted Hot Chocolate Mix

Gluten free, dairy free, nut free, egg free

Makes 1 medium sized jar

Base Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup cacao powder

• 1/2 cup gelatin powder

• 1/4 cup coconut sugar

  Optional Add-Ins (choose your favourites):

• 2-4 teaspoons ginger powder

• 2 tablespoons maca powder

• 2 teaspoons vanilla powder

• 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Instructions:

• Add all ingredients to a bowl and mix well to combine.

• Transfer to a clean, dry jar with a lid. Store in the pantry.

• This makes one medium jar. Feel free to double the recipe for a larger batch.

  To serve:

• Add 1–2 tablespoons of the mix to a mug of your favourite milk.

• Warm gently in a saucepan or Thermomix.

• Optional: Add 1 tablespoon of butter or coconut oil for extra creaminess.

• Blend with a stick blender or thermomix to make it frothy and smooth.

• For kids, I use 1 tablespoon of mix per cup of milk

  For Cold Drinks & Smoothies:

  If you’d like to use this mix in iced drinks or smoothies, simply swap the gelatin for collagen (since gelatin needs to be heated to dissolve). I love using the unflavoured collagen from Chief Nutrition for this.

  Make It Extra Special:

  Top your hot chocolate with one of my homemade coconut sugar marshmallows for an extra treat — they're refined sugar-free and so fun for kids and grown-ups alike.

  Customise Your Sweetness

  Prefer to control the sweetness in each serve? You can omit the coconut sugar from the mix entirely and just sweeten your drink to taste when preparing it.

  Final Tips:

  • Store the mix in a sealed jar in a cool, dry place.

  • Make a double batch so you’re set for the whole season.

  • This also makes a thoughtful gift — just pop it in a cute jar with a ribbon and instructions.

  I hope you love making this. If you try it, I’d love to hear what combos you come up with — tag me over on Instagram @its_scarlett_lee so I can see your creations or leave a comment below and let me know what you think.