If you think nourishing comfort and rich chocolate flavor can’t possibly fit in the same mug, let me introduce you to Bone Broth Hot Chocolate. This warm and velvety drink is the perfect way to sneak a little gut-healing goodness into your favorite cold-weather treat, blending the deep, cozy notes of classic cocoa with the subtle savory undertones of bone broth. Whether you’re after a delicious post-workout pick-me-up or a soothing afternoon snack, this mug delivers protein, collagen, and a whole lot of soul-hugging flavor.

Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of simple ingredients to whip up Bone Broth Hot Chocolate, and each one is essential for crafting that perfect balance of creaminess, chocolatey richness, and nourishing comfort. Let’s talk through each to get why they matter.

Unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice): Brings a smooth, neutral base without overpowering the star flavors; any milk will work, so use what you love.
Bone broth (unsalted or low sodium, chicken or beef): The hidden gem that packs in nutrition—choose chicken for delicate flavor, beef for deep richness.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers pure, intense chocolate notes; don’t skimp on quality for the best flavor!
Maple syrup or honey (to taste): Adds a touch of sweetness and rounds out the cocoa with natural, earthy notes.
Vanilla extract: A splash for aroma and warmth, making the chocolate taste somehow even chocolatier.
Pinch of cinnamon (optional): A hint of spice elevates the profile and brings a cozy, aromatic depth.
Pinch of sea salt: Just the tiniest bit boosts the chocolate and balances the sweetness.
Collagen peptides or protein powder (optional): For extra protein and gut health—completely seamless in the texture of the finished drink.

How to Make Bone Broth Hot Chocolate

Step 1: Warm the Base

Pour your almond milk and bone broth into a small saucepan and set it over medium heat. Combining them gently heats the liquid for a creamy, nutritive base without any sharp savory flavors—you’ll barely taste the broth, but you’ll feel the goodness!

Step 2: Whisk in the Chocolate Magic

Sprinkle in your cocoa powder, followed by maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon if you’re feeling extra cozy, and that crucial pinch of salt. Whisk constantly. Watch as the cocoa smoothly melts into the milk and broth, creating a beautiful, even chocolatey liquid.

Step 3: Heat, But Don’t Boil

Continue whisking over medium heat just until the mixture is hot and every ingredient has completely dissolved, but don’t let it boil—you want it steamy and smooth, not scalded or separated.

Step 4: Stir in Collagen or Protein (Optional)

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Now’s the perfect moment to sprinkle in your collagen peptides or protein powder if you’re adding them. Whisk until everything is fully integrated and frothy. If you have a milk frother, use it here for a latte-like finish!

Step 5: Pour and Enjoy

Pour your Bone Broth Hot Chocolate into a favorite mug. Take a moment to admire that steamy, cozy hug-in-a-cup before you sip. The aroma alone feels restorative!

How to Serve Bone Broth Hot Chocolate

Garnishes

A mug of Bone Broth Hot Chocolate deserves to look as inviting as it tastes. Try topping yours with a dollop of whipped coconut cream, a dusting of extra cocoa powder, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you want to add a bit of whimsy, a chocolate shaving or two never hurts!

Side Dishes

Pair this warming drink with simple sides like almond biscotti, oatmeal cookies, or slices of homemade banana bread. The mild chocolate and subtle broth flavors make it a match for both sweet and savory nibbles—think a handful of roasted nuts or even a sweet potato muffin.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving Bone Broth Hot Chocolate at a gathering? Pour it into elegant clear mugs to show off the richly colored liquid, and set out a “garnish bar” with little bowls of cinnamon, marshmallows, and coconut flakes. Or pour it into a thermos to keep it warm for a winter picnic, and add a cinnamon stick stirrer for a rustic touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare because it disappears fast!), you can store Bone Broth Hot Chocolate in a covered jar or container in the fridge for up to two days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep in all that goodness and prevent any fridge odors from taking over.

Freezing

Want to batch-prep or save a little for later? You can freeze Bone Broth Hot Chocolate in ice cube trays and transfer the cubes to a freezer bag once solid. Use them for an instant, heat-and-enjoy treat, or to cool down a fresh mug without watering down the flavor.

Reheating

When it’s time to enjoy again, simply pour your chilled or thawed Bone Broth Hot Chocolate into a saucepan and gently reheat over medium-low, whisking to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving if you’ve added protein powder, as it may affect the texture—gentle heat is your friend.

FAQs

Can you taste the bone broth in Bone Broth Hot Chocolate?

Not at all! The savory element is barely noticeable, and mostly just adds incredible depth and a rich mouthfeel. It’s really all about the chocolate, with a subtle hint of warmth from the broth.

What kind of bone broth works best?

Opt for unsalted or low sodium, plain chicken or beef bone broth. Chicken keeps it light and neutral, while beef gives it a fuller, more decadent chocolatey vibe. Just avoid flavored or herb-infused broths that might clash with the cocoa.

Is this recipe dairy-free and gluten-free?

Absolutely! If you use almond milk (or any plant-based milk), this Bone Broth Hot Chocolate is naturally dairy-free. Bone broth and all other ingredients listed are also gluten-free, making it a safe treat for many dietary preferences.

Are collagen peptides or protein powder necessary?

They’re totally optional. Adding collagen or protein powder just makes the drink extra satisfying and beneficial if you’re looking to boost your protein intake. The recipe is wonderful with or without them, so it’s up to your needs!

Can I make a vegan version?

While you can use plant-based milk and leave out the collagen, true bone broth is animal-based, so there’s no direct vegan substitute. However, you could try using a savory vegetable broth for a somewhat similar experience—just note it won’t carry the same collagen benefits.

Final Thoughts

There’s something almost magical about sipping a mug of Bone Broth Hot Chocolate—it’s breezy to make, surprising in its creamy depth, and a lovely way to sneak nourishment into your daily routine. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you start craving this cozy cupful every time you need a little warmth inside and out!

Bone Broth Hot Chocolate Recipe

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4.5 from 30 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 7 minutes
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich and comforting fusion of bone broth and hot chocolate with this unique recipe. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or a protein-packed post-workout drink.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bone Broth Hot Chocolate:

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
1/2 cup plain beef or chicken bone broth (unsalted or low sodium)
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of sea salt
1 tablespoon collagen peptides or protein powder (optional)

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Instructions

Heat the Liquid: In a saucepan over medium heat, mix almond milk and bone broth.
Add Ingredients: Whisk in cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Blend: Heat the mixture without boiling, whisking continuously.
Optional Protein: If using collagen or protein powder, stir it in after removing from heat.
Serve: Pour into a mug and enjoy warm.