NO More Excuses
NO MORE EXCUSES! is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 150 calories per serving. Recipe by Kelly Yager on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 5 min | Total: 15 min
Cost: $3.15 total, $1.58 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (high‑quality Dutch‑process cocoa for deep flavor)
- 2 scoops Vanilla Protein Powder (about 30 g per scoop; choose a low‑carb whey or plant‑based blend)
- 2 cups Almond Milk (unsweetened; can substitute any low‑fat milk)
- 1 teaspoon Monk Fruit Sweetener (granulated; use Swerve brown sugar if preferred)
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla for extra aroma)
- 2 tablespoons Sugar‑Free Pistachio Pudding Mix (optional; adds pistachio flavor and creaminess)
Instructions
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl whisk together cocoa powder, protein powder, monk fruit sweetener, and pistachio pudding mix (if using) until there are no lumps.
Time: PT2M
Heat Milk
Pour almond milk into a saucepan and warm over medium heat until just steaming, about 3‑4 minutes. Do not let it boil.
Time: PT4M
Temperature: Medium heat
Incorporate Dry Mix
Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the warm milk, stirring constantly to create a smooth, glossy beverage.
Time: PT2M
Add Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla extract, then remove the saucepan from heat.
Time: PT1M
Serve
Pour the hot chocolate into two mugs, garnish with a pinch of cocoa or a few chopped pistachios if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Time: PT1M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 150
- Protein
- 20 g
- Carbohydrates
- 5 g
- Fat
- 3 g
- Fiber
- 2 g
Dietary info: Keto-friendly, Low‑carb, Sugar‑free, Gluten‑free, High‑protein
Allergens: Milk, Soy (if soy‑based protein powder is used)
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Cacao powder
- Instead of Vanilla Protein Powder: Chocolate protein powder, Unflavored protein powder
- Instead of Almond Milk: Cow's milk, Soy milk, Oat milk
- Instead of Monk Fruit Sweetener: Swerve brown sugar, Erythritol, Stevia blend
- Instead of Vanilla Extract: Almond extract, Maple extract
- Instead of Sugar‑Free Pistachio Pudding Mix: Sugar‑free chocolate pudding mix, Plain Greek yogurt
Equipment Needed
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring Spoons
- Mug
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensuring the dry ingredients are fully whisked to avoid clumps.
- Heating the milk without boiling to prevent protein curdling.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use a high‑quality Dutch‑process cocoa for a richer chocolate flavor.
- For extra creaminess, replace half of the almond milk with unsweetened coconut milk.
- A pinch of sea salt enhances the chocolate’s depth without adding sodium.
Troubleshooting
Lumpy texture
Sift the cocoa and protein powder before whisking, and add the dry mix slowly while continuously whisking.
Drink is too thick
Add an extra ¼‑½ cup of almond milk and whisk until smooth.
Protein powder curdles
Ensure the milk is only steaming, not boiling, and add the powder off the heat, whisking quickly.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours; reheat gently on the stove.
Freezer: Not recommended – texture changes after freezing.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Mix the dry ingredients in a small jar and store for up to 2 weeks; just add warm milk when ready.
- Pre‑measure the almond milk in a measuring cup for faster prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of protein hot chocolate in American fitness cuisine?
Protein‑enhanced hot chocolate emerged in the United States as a post‑workout recovery drink, blending the comfort of classic cocoa with added whey or plant protein to support muscle repair. It reflects the modern American trend of turning traditional comfort foods into functional, nutrient‑dense options.
What are the traditional regional variations of protein hot chocolate in American fitness culture?
In the Pacific Northwest, oat milk and hemp protein are popular, while Southern fitness circles often use dairy milk with chocolate whey. Some athletes add espresso for a caffeine boost, creating a “mocha‑protein” twist.
What is the authentic traditional way protein hot chocolate is served in American gyms?
It is typically served hot in a simple ceramic mug, sometimes topped with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a few chopped nuts for texture. The focus is on quick consumption after a workout rather than elaborate garnishes.
What occasions or celebrations is protein hot chocolate traditionally associated with in American fitness culture?
It is common after strength‑training sessions, during winter‑time fitness challenges, and at “protein‑potluck” gatherings where athletes share low‑carb, high‑protein treats.
How does protein hot chocolate fit into the broader American health‑and‑wellness cuisine tradition?
It exemplifies the American health‑and‑wellness movement’s focus on adapting classic comfort foods into nutrient‑dense, low‑sugar options that support active lifestyles while still satisfying cravings.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for protein hot chocolate versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include unsweetened cocoa powder, a high‑quality whey or plant protein, unsweetened milk (dairy or nut‑based), and a low‑calorie sweetener like monk fruit. Acceptable substitutes are any low‑carb sweetener, alternative milks, or flavored protein powders.
What other American fitness dishes pair well with protein hot chocolate?
Pair it with a protein‑packed breakfast bowl (Greek yogurt, berries, and nuts) or a low‑carb banana‑nut muffin for a balanced post‑workout snack.
What makes protein hot chocolate special or unique in American fitness cuisine?
It combines the comforting warmth of classic hot cocoa with a substantial protein boost, making it both a recovery drink and a treat, which is rare among traditional hot beverages.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making protein hot chocolate?
Common mistakes include boiling the milk, which can cause the protein to curdle, and adding the dry mix too quickly, leading to lumps. Always heat the milk gently and whisk the dry ingredients in a thin stream.
Why does this protein hot chocolate recipe use monk fruit sweetener instead of regular sugar?
Monk fruit provides sweetness without adding carbs or calories, keeping the drink keto‑friendly and low‑glycemic, which aligns with the fitness goals Kelly Yager emphasizes in her vlog.
Can I make protein hot chocolate ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the dry mix ahead and store it in an airtight jar. The finished drink can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours; reheat gently on the stove while whisking to restore smoothness.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making protein hot chocolate?
The beverage should be glossy, slightly thickened, and free of lumps. It should coat the back of a spoon lightly and have a rich, dark brown color.
How do I know when protein hot chocolate is done cooking?
When the milk is steaming (tiny bubbles around the edges) and the dry ingredients are fully dissolved, the drink is ready. It should not be boiling.
What does the YouTube channel Kelly Yager specialize in?
The YouTube channel Kelly Yager focuses on fitness‑focused lifestyle vlogs, workout routines, nutrition tips, and product reviews, often sharing quick, high‑protein recipes for busy parents and athletes.
How does the YouTube channel Kelly Yager's approach to fitness cooking differ from other fitness channels?
Kelly Yager blends real‑life parenting and postpartum experiences with practical, low‑carb, high‑protein meals, emphasizing quick preparation and realistic daily routines, whereas many fitness channels focus solely on intense training or elaborate meal‑prep.
Last updated: September 4, 2026
