Name: Peppermint Protein Mocha
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 3 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ounces unsweetened almond milk or hemp milk; 1 tablespoon heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free); 1/4 cup chocolate protein powder; 1/2 tablespoon cocoa powder; 1/2 tablespoon keto-friendly sweetener; 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1 shot espresso or 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee

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I love making this peppermint protein mocha when I want something warm, festive, and satisfying without sugar overload. It comes together in just a few minutes and gives me that cozy chocolate-mint flavor I crave during colder days, while still fitting perfectly into a low-carb, high-protein routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it tastes indulgent but feels nourishing. I like how the chocolate, coffee, and peppermint balance each other without being too sweet. I also appreciate that it’s quick to make, customizable, and keeps me full thanks to the added protein. It works just as well for a high-protein breakfast as it does for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 ounces unsweetened almond milk or hemp milk
1 tablespoon heavy cream
1/4 cup chocolate protein powder
1/2 tablespoon cocoa powder
1/2 tablespoon keto-friendly sweetener
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 shot espresso or strongly brewed coffee

Directions

I start by combining the milk and heavy cream in a small saucepan and heating it over medium heat until it reaches a strong simmer. Once it’s hot, I remove it from the heat and immediately add the protein powder, cocoa powder, sweetener, and peppermint extract. I blend everything right away until the mixture is smooth and frothy.

I pour the espresso into a mug and top it with the chocolate protein mixture. If I want to make it extra cozy, I add a little lightly sweetened whipped cream on top.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes 1 serving.
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 3 minutes
Total time: 5 minutes

Variations

I sometimes switch things up depending on what I have on hand. I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream when I want a dairy-free version. If I don’t feel like peppermint, I swap it for vanilla or hazelnut extract. When I only have vanilla or unflavored protein powder, I add a bit more cocoa powder and sweetener to keep the chocolate flavor strong.

Storage/Reheating

I prefer this mocha fresh, but if I need to make it ahead, I store it in the refrigerator for up to one day. When reheating, I gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave and give it a good stir or quick blend to restore the frothy texture.

FAQs

Can I add protein powder directly to hot coffee?

I can add protein powder to hot coffee, but I always blend it quickly. Protein powder can clump if it sits too long in hot liquid, so fast blending makes a big difference.

Can I make this recipe dairy free?

I make it dairy free by using full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream and choosing a non-dairy protein powder.

Is this peppermint protein mocha keto friendly?

I keep it keto friendly by using unsweetened milk alternatives and a keto-approved sweetener, which keeps the carb count low.

Can I skip the peppermint flavor?

I sometimes skip the peppermint entirely. When I do, I replace it with vanilla extract or leave it out for a classic chocolate protein mocha.

When do I like to drink this mocha?

I enjoy it in the morning as a high-protein breakfast drink or in the afternoon when I want something warm and energizing.

Conclusion

I keep coming back to this peppermint protein mocha because it’s quick, comforting, and full of flavor without added sugar. It’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy a festive drink while still sticking to a low-carb, high-protein lifestyle.