I tell ya, it’s really hard to workout in winter.

Going to the gym just never seems appealing. I mean, between the freezing weather outside and allure of pumpkin pie, pecan pie, white house rolls (the list goes on!) at home, which require no sweating to attain, I feel more like curling up in front of fire than running a few miles.

So, as I do with most things (cough* homework), I have to bribe myself.

This “bribing” usually comes in the form of one thing, especially during those cold December months when candy canes and chocolate are as easy to come by as Queen Elsa this Halloween. Hot Cocoa. Of course, this bribe can definitely be tricky to come by. I mean, after coming home from the gym I definitely don’t want to down a high calorie drink, but also need something chocolatey and warm asap after that freezing walk to the car.

That’s where this Dairy Free Hot Cocoa comes in handy!

This Hot Cocoa has 15 grams of protein and only 118 calories. Plus, it doesn’t contain any added sugars or dairy, for those of you watching your dairy intake.

Not to mention, it’s practically heavenly and takes about 2 minutes to make.

After making this Hot Cocoa, I think it’s safe to say you’ll want to workout every day this winter!

Homemade Dairy-Free Hot Cocoa

• 1 c dairy free milk of choice (I used 1/2 c coconut milk 1/2 c almond milk)
• 1 tbs cocoa powder
• 1/2 scoop (about 3 tbs) chocolate protein powder (or vanilla)
• 1 tsp stevia
• 1/2 tbs chocolate chips (optional)

Blend all ingredients in a blender or nutribullet for 30 seconds. Once smooth, pour into a mug and microwave for 1 minute. Stir in chocolate chips until smooth, if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (from myfitnesspal.com)

Calories: 118

Fat: 6g

Carbs: 5g

Protein: 15g

(Yields 1 servings)

Nutrition information calculated not including chocolate chips. If included, nutrition info is as follows: 153 calories, 8g fat, 10g carbs, and 15g protein.