Is there anything better than a warm, comforting drink during the colder months? Hot chocolate is such a nostalgic treat for many of us, bringing back cozy memories of curling up with a mug on a chilly day. But what if you could enjoy this classic favorite while also giving your body a boost of nourishment and sustained energy?

I created this recipe to combine the indulgent, chocolatey goodness we all crave with nourishing ingredients like raw cacao and plant-based protein. It’s the perfect way to warm up, feel satisfied, and give your body the nutrients it needs to thrive—without relying on processed cocoa or added sugars..

I added some black pepper to this recipe- which has traditionally been added into hot cacao preparations for centuries, as I learned on a local trip to Nicaragua. It makes for a super interesting, pepper flavor combo!

Cacao Beauty Tip

Because I love chocolate so much, I frequently have to remind myself that it should be used as an occasional treat. Why? This is because cacao contains caffeine and has theobromine, even when labeled as “raw” (so avoid making this a staple in your everyday diet).

Can we use cocoa powder (since it’s cheaper), rather than cacao powder? While both powders start from the same place—the Theobroma cacao tree—how it’s processed is what makes the difference. I suggest staying away from cocoa, since it is processed and often contains added sugar or other sweeteners.

Cacao is the raw form of the cacao bean, which is less processed—having more powerful antioxidant effects and health benefits. For instance, 100 grams of raw cacao powder has an ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) of 95,500, then dropping to 62,100 for cacao nibs, and 26,000 for cocoa powder. Pretty cool, huh?!

You may choose to purchase cacao at any health food store, or find some great online sites where you can buy it raw, organic and in bulk (which is my preference).

Vegan Protein Powder Beauty Tip

A nice protein shake in the afternoon is a great way to get easily digestible protein, which helps to keep you full and nourished in the afternoon.

Smoothies are a real life saver, as the blending makes them “pre-digested”, so you’re able to get in all that nutrition and not worry that you’re not chewing enough (we don’t all have time to sit down for an extra half hour+ and chew each and every day!!).

I personally love using SunWarrior Active Protein (in the vanilla flavor). It’s my favorite as its non-chalky, and it’s all non-GMO.

This raw protein is loaded with 30 grams of muscle-building, organic plant protein per serving, which is easy to digest and assimilate.

Why I Always Add Glowing Greens Powder to My Shakes

If you’re looking to take your hot chocolate protein smoothie to the next level, I highly recommend adding a scoop of our Glowing Greens Powder. This incredible blend of superfoods that It support digestion, energy levels, and even collagen production, helping you glow from the inside out.

Here’s why I love it:

Amalaki: Known as the “fountain of youth” in Ayurvedic medicine, Amalaki is packed with vitamin C—10 times more than oranges!

Chlorella: This powerhouse green algae aids your body’s natural cleansing process, helping to eliminate toxins and leave you feeling lighter and more refreshed

Ashitaba: Also called the “Tomorrow Leaf,” this Japanese herb promotes cellular regeneration and vitality.

Moringa: With its impressive levels of vitamin A and calcium, moringa helps fortify your body with essential nutrients.

Spirulina: A protein-packed superfood with antioxidant properties, spirulina supports your overall vitality and adds an extra protein boost to your shake.

Adding Glowing Greens Powder to your shake is like giving your body a concentrated dose of nature’s best ingredients—all in one convenient scoop!

All my love,
Kimberly

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