Bone Broth Hot Cocoa Protein Drink + Collagen Recipes!
I Quit Caffeine.
I’ve been on a bit of a healing journey lately, not just for my body but also for my skin. After running some holistic tests, I found out my cortisol levels were sky high. My functional practitioner suggested I give up caffeine for a while to see how my body responded. I love my morning matcha and teas, so finding a replacement felt nearly impossible. But I needed something warm, nourishing, and gut-friendly to start my day. I was on the hunt!
In this post, I’m sharing the creamy bone broth hot cocoa that became my go-to protein drink, why I love it, the difference between collagen peptides vs. bone broth, and easy ways to add both to your daily meals. I’ll also include some of my favorite delicious recipes so you can start incorporating these ingredients into your routine, too.
You might like: How I Add Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen to My Day
I Found The Best Bone Broth Hot Cocoa
That’s when I stumbled on RAE Basics Bone Broth Protein. It’s a mom-owned company created during the founder’s IVF journey, when she was searching for something that would nourish her body in the most gentle and supportive way. She ended up crafting a bone broth protein powder that’s basically like sipping on a cozy cup of Nesquik hot cocoa. Except this version is packed with 14 grams of protein, grass-fed collagen, and none of the junk.
How It Replaces My Coffee or Tea Every Morning
Now, every morning, I make myself a cup. One scoop of the chocolate bone broth protein, hot water, and a splash of coconut milk. That’s it. It’s creamy, comforting, and it gives me protein and collagen first thing in the morning. When it’s hot outside, I’ll make it iced (just add it to cold water and pour over ice, it’s literally amazing).
And if you’re someone who still loves caffeine, they also have a coffee flavor that gives you 60 mg of caffeine plus the protein and collagen all in one!
You can grab it here and use my code JazzLeaf20 for 20% off your order.
My Go-To Flavor + Other Options
RAE Basics comes in a few flavor options, depending on what you’re in the mood for. I use the Classic Chocolate flavor, and it gives that cozy, hot cocoa vibe I love. They also have a Mocha flavor for a subtle coffee-chocolate combo, and a Caffeinated Chocolate flavor if you want a gentle boost of energy.
Why I Love RAE Basics
14g of protein per scoop keeps me full and supports my metabolism.
Grass-fed bone broth collagen supports skin, joints, and gut health (this has been huge for me as I prep my body for pregnancy again).
Dairy-free & clean ingredients (it’s keto, paleo, and low-carb friendly).
No added sugar, it’s naturally sweetened with monk fruit.
So easy I just add water, no blender needed.
The ingredients are about as clean as it gets: grass-fed bone broth, organic cocoa powder, coconut milk powder, oat milk powder, monk fruit, and Redmond Real Salt.
How I drink it
Hot version:
1 scoop RAE Basics Chocolate Bone Broth Protein
1 cup hot water
Splash of coconut milk (or almond/oat milk)
Iced version:
1 scoop RAE Basics Chocolate Bone Broth Protein
1 cup cold water
Pour over ice, add splash of milk if you want it creamier
Here’s what I have noticed since drinking it!
I easily hit my protein goal of 110g protein per day because each cup of bone broth hot cocoa has 14g protein in it.
My joints and hair feel strong from the collagen in each scoop.
No bloat because there’s no dairy in it, its made with organic coconut milk.
It’s low carb, so I feel energized after in the best way possible. It’s also keto!
I never get a crash, because its made with ZERO added sugar.
I love that it doesn’t require anything other than water to make it creamy and delicious.
It’s such a treat I look forward to every day. Either in the morning as a coffee replacement, as an afternoon pick-me-up or as a dessert post dinner!
Collagen Peptides vs. Bone Broth: What’s the Difference?
I get asked this a lot, and honestly, I used to be confused too. Collagen peptides and bone broth sound like they’d be the same thing, but they’re actually a little different. Think of them like cousins who bring their own unique benefits to the table.
Bone broth is the OG. It’s made by slowly simmering bones and connective tissue, which pulls out all the good stuff like collagen, amino acids, and minerals. It’s basically a whole-food source of collagen that also gives you extra nutrients like gelatin, electrolytes, and vitamins that support your gut, skin, and joints. Because it’s made the traditional way, the collagen naturally breaks down into peptides during the cooking process, so your body can absorb it easily. One of my favorite ways to get all these benefits is by using RAE Basics Bone Broth Protein. It’s super clean, easy to mix, and gives you that nourishing boost without having to simmer a pot all day.
Collagen peptides, on the other hand, are more of a modern shortcut. They’re usually made by processing animal hides into a super fine, flavorless powder. You don’t get the extra minerals and nutrients that come with bone broth, but it’s quick, easy, and still a great way to support things like skin, hair, nails, and joints. I love keeping Ancient Nutrition Collagen Peptides travel packs in my bag for when I’m on the go, and I always have a big tub of collagen peptides powder at home to stir into smoothies, oats, or even tea. It’s such an easy way to boost my daily protein and collagen without overthinking it.
Here’s how I think about it: bone broth gives me that cozy, nourishing, whole-food goodness, and collagen peptides are perfect when I just want something quick and easy. I use both for different reasons, and they complement each other really well. You definitely don’t have to choose one over the other.
How to Incorporate Bone Broth Into Your Meals
Bone broth is one of the easiest ingredients to fold into your daily meals. It’s packed with collagen, amino acids, and essential nutrients, and the best part is that it blends seamlessly into both sweet and savory recipes without overpowering the flavor. Here are some simple, everyday ways to use it:
Drinks
Bone Broth Lattes
Warm bone broth blends beautifully with teas and spices. I love adding it to my Matcha Latte or Pumpkin Spiced Chai Latte for a cozy, nourishing start to the day.Bone Broth Mocktails and Cocktails
Using chilled bone broth in drinks is such a fun way to get creative. It adds subtle savory depth and nutrients. Try it in my Calming and Relaxing Mocktail.Smoothies and Protein Shakes
You can also add bone broth protein into smoothies and shakes. It mixes in easily and gives your drink a collagen and protein boost without changing the taste.
Breakfast
Scramble Your Eggs with Bone Broth
Whisk a splash of bone broth into your eggs before cooking. It makes them extra fluffy and gives you a little nutrient boost first thing in the morning.Bone Broth Oatmeal
Stir bone broth into oats for added creaminess and protein. You can also mix it into my Chocolate Brownie Cauliflower Oats for a cozy, nourishing breakfast.Smoothie Bowls
Bone broth protein works great in smoothie bowls. I love adding it to my Healthy Chocolate Frosty Smoothie Bowl for an extra hit of protein and collagen.
Grains
Cooking Rice (or Grains) with Bone Broth
Swap your cooking water for bone broth when making rice or other grains. It adds subtle flavor and nutrients without any extra effort. Try it with my Fluffy Rice Recipe.
This trick works beautifully with quinoa, too. Here’s my Go-To Quinoa Recipe.
Lunch and Dinner
Bone Broth–Infused Pasta
Boil pasta in bone broth instead of water to give it a little extra protein and flavor.Sauté or Steam Vegetables in Bone Broth
Use bone broth instead of oil or water for steaming or sautéing vegetables. It layers in extra nutrients and adds a light savory note.Mashed Potatoes
Add a generous splash of bone broth while mashing potatoes for a creamier texture and a collagen boost.Swap Out Stock or Broth in Soups and Stews
Anytime a recipe calls for stock or broth, use bone broth instead for extra nutrition and flavor. One of my favorites is my Simple Immune-Boosting Chicken Soup.
Recipes to Use Collagen
FAQs About Bone Broth, Collagen, and RAE Basics
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Yes! The grass-fed collagen supports skin elasticity and hydration, which is why I love sipping it daily.
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Always check with your doctor, but I personally love it because it’s gentle, nourishing, and made with clean ingredients.
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Not really, it’s more like a high-protein drink. You could pair it with breakfast or use it as a snack to tide you over.
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Nope! It tastes like creamy hot cocoa. No funky broth flavor at all.
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It really depends on your goals, but most people aim for around 10–20 grams of collagen protein per day. I like to get mine through a mix of bone broth and collagen powder so it fits easily into my daily routine. Consistency is key for supporting things like joint health, skin elasticity, and overall health.
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Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues over low heat. This process pulls out collagen, essential amino acids, and additional nutrients that support gut health, bone health, and skin health. Collagen supplements (like collagen peptides in powder form) are more processed but super convenient. Both have similar benefits for the human body, and the best option usually depends on personal preference and lifestyle.
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Yes! Bone broth is a natural source of collagen and essential nutrients that support joint support, skin hydration, and elasticity. It also contains compounds like chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid, which play a vital role in keeping joints cushioned and skin smooth. Many people notice a difference in their joint health and visible signs of aging when they include it regularly.
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Generally, yes. High-quality collagen supplements made from sources like bovine hides, chicken bones, or marine collagen are considered safe for most people. Look for products that are third-party tested for things like heavy metals to make sure you’re getting a clean, high-protein product. Clinical studies have shown promising health benefits, especially for older adults and those focused on joint support and skin health.
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Honestly, the best way is the one you’ll stick with. Bone broth protein powder is great for a cozy, whole food–based option, while collagen peptides in powder form are perfect for tossing into smoothies, oats, or even your coffee. Some people like chicken bone broth for its light flavor, while others prefer beef bone broth for its rich nutrient profile. You can mix and match depending on your health goals and personal taste.
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Yes. Bone broth and collagen both contain essential amino acids and beneficial nutrients that support the gut lining, which plays an important role in immune system function. Many people find that regularly including these in a balanced diet gives them noticeable benefits for gut comfort and overall wellness.
Giving up caffeine felt daunting at first, but this creamy bone broth hot chocolate ritual has completely transformed my mornings. It’s a cozy warm drink that feels indulgent but is packed with protein, collagen, and nutrients. Starting my day with a bone broth hot chocolate instead of coffee has become such a grounding habit. The best part is that it’s made with good quality bone broth, so it actually supports my body while tasting like a treat.
Beyond this simple hot chocolate recipe, I love finding new ways to work bone broth and collagen into my meals. From drinks to smoothies to everyday cooking, there are so many delicious recipes to explore. Whether it’s a nourishing latte, a quick smoothie, or a savory dinner, it’s easy to turn these ingredients into a delicious drink or meal that supports your health and tastes amazing.
Easy and delicious Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Fries made with simple ingredients. These healthy sweet potato fries are crispy, golden, and full of warm cinnamon-sugar flavor.