The holiday season is here, bringing cozy gatherings, festive treats, and of course, delicious seasonal drinks. While these beverages often satisfy our sweet tooth, they’re not always the most nutrient-packed. Why not give your holiday drinks a healthy twist by adding protein? Whether you're sipping on a creamy hot cocoa or a festive spiced latte, protein can make your drinks more filling and energizing, while supporting your body's needs. Here’s how to do it, with a special focus on plant-based options.

Why Add Protein to Your Drinks?

Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall energy. Adding it to your holiday beverages is an easy way to meet your daily needs while indulging in the flavors of the season. Fun fact: milk, including plant-based varieties, is often a sneaky source of protein! While dairy milk typically contains 8 grams of protein per cup, many plant-based milks (like soy or pea milk) also pack a protein punch.

Top Ways to Add Protein to Holiday Drinks

1. Opt for Protein-Rich Plant-Based Milks

Not all plant-based milks are created equal when it comes to protein. Here’s a quick guide:

• Soy Milk: About 7-9 grams of protein per cup, making it one of the highest-protein plant-based options.

• Pea Milk: Another protein powerhouse, with about 8 grams per cup.

• Almond, Oat, and Coconut Milk: While these are lower in protein (1-3 grams per cup), they can still contribute to your drink’s flavor and texture.

Use these milks as the base for your holiday lattes, hot chocolates, or egg-free nogs!

2. Add a Scoop of Plant-Based Protein Powder

Protein powders are versatile and easy to mix into warm drinks. Look for flavors that complement your recipes, like vanilla, chocolate, or unflavored options. Try stirring a scoop into:

• Hot cocoa with a dash of cinnamon

• Peppermint mocha lattes

• Pumpkin spice drinks

Tip: Mix your protein powder with a small amount of milk or water first to avoid clumping.

3. Blend in Silken Tofu

This might sound unconventional, but silken tofu is a fantastic addition to smoothies and creamy hot drinks. It blends seamlessly, adds creaminess, and provides 8-10 grams of protein per serving. Try it in a vegan eggnog or chai latte for a protein boost.

4. Include Nut or Seed Butters

Almond butter, cashew butter, or tahini can add protein, healthy fats, and a nutty flavor to your drinks. Stir a spoonful into your hot chocolate or blend it into a frothy almond latte for a decadent treat.

5. Experiment with Protein-Rich Add-Ins

• Hemp Seeds: Add a tablespoon to your morning matcha or turmeric latte for about 3 grams of protein.

• Chia Seeds: These gel-like seeds can be blended into drinks for extra thickness and 2 grams of protein per tablespoon.

• Aquafaba (Chickpea Water): Whip up a frothy topping for your drinks with aquafaba, adding a subtle protein boost.

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High-Protein Holiday Hot Cocoa Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup soy milk or pea milk

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder

• 1 tsp maple syrup or to taste

• Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Whisk in the cocoa powder, protein powder, and maple syrup until smooth.

3. Pour into a mug, sprinkle with cinnamon or nutmeg, and enjoy!

Adding protein to your holiday drinks doesn’t mean compromising on flavor. Whether you’re using plant-based milks, protein powders, or creative add-ins like nut butter, these ideas will elevate your festive beverages while keeping you fueled. Cheers to a healthier holiday season!

Did You Know? Regular milk and high-protein plant-based alternatives like soy and pea milk contain significant amounts of protein. This makes them not just a creamy addition to your drinks but also a practical way to stay nourished during the busy holiday season!