Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls

If you are craving a treat that feels indulgent but is packed with wholesome ingredients, these mint chocolate chip protein balls are the answer. Each bite is packed with plant protein and chocolatey mint flavor, making them perfect for a midday snack or a post workout pick me up. With simple prep and no baking required, these quickly became a household favorite for both a sweet craving and a protein boost.

I first made these after a tough week when I wanted something comforting but still nutritious. Now they are constantly in our fridge for everything from school lunches to weekend hiking trips.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Rolled oats: Provide a hearty texture and help bind the balls together. Choose thick cut oats for even more chew.
• Almond butter: Brings creaminess and healthy fats. Natural almond butter with a smooth consistency works best.
• Honey: Adds just enough sweetness plus helps hold the mixture together. Opt for raw honey for the richest flavor.
• Vanilla protein powder: Boosts the protein content and gives mellow vanilla notes. Make sure to choose a high quality powder for clean flavor.
• Peppermint extract: Gives the signature refreshing minty pop. Start with the listed amount and adjust to taste if you like extra mint flavor.
• Mini dark chocolate chips: Bring bursts of chocolate in every bite. Use a quality dark chocolate for best taste and a rich color.
• Unsweetened almond milk: Keeps the mix pliable if it is too dry. Choose a brand with no added sweeteners for pure taste.

How to Make It

Combine Base Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, vanilla protein powder, and peppermint extract. Mix thoroughly using a sturdy spatula or clean hands. Make sure everything is well blended into a thick dough. The oats should disappear into the nut butter mixture for uniform balls.

Adjust Moisture:

If the mixture seems too dry and crumbly, drizzle in one tablespoon of almond milk at a time. Mix well after each addition until the dough is moist enough to hold together easily but not sticky.

Fold in Chocolate Chips:

Once the base is the right consistency, sprinkle in your mini dark chocolate chips. Using a spoon or your hands, gently fold them in making sure they are spread evenly through the mixture. This keeps every single bite chocolatey.

Shape the Balls:

Use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each scoop into tight balls by hand, making them as evenly sized as possible for even chilling and a pretty final look.

Chill and Set:

Place the finished protein balls on a parchment lined baking sheet or a plate. Arrange them so they are not touching and slide them into the refrigerator for at least twenty minutes to firm up. Chilling helps the flavors meld and gives a satisfying bite.

Store:

Transfer the set protein balls to an airtight container once chilled. They will keep their texture and freshness for up to a week in the refrigerator.

Enjoy:

Pop one out anytime you need a chocolate mint pick me up.

I especially love the burst of peppermint in these. It reminds me of the mint chocolate chip ice cream birthday cakes we used to have as kids. Now my niece loves rolling these out with me every time she visits.

Flavor Boosters

Your hands will get sticky rolling these so keep a bowl of water nearby to rinse halfway through. Give the mixture a quick taste before shaping and adjust the amount of peppermint or sweetener to your preference. If you have leftover mixture press it into a small lined pan and chill then cut into bars.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these chilled on a snack board with fresh berries and fruit. Take them on road trips or hikes in a cooler as an energy boost. Pack them in lunchboxes for a sweet satisfying midday bite. Turn into a dessert platter with a cup of hot coffee or alongside a scoop of Greek yogurt for more protein.

Creative Twists

Swap in peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if there are allergies or preferences. Use agave or maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan version. Play with different flavored protein powders or even skip it and add a couple extra tablespoons of oats for a less protein heavy snack. For a nut free version pick a seed butter and check that your chocolate chips are allergy safe. For spring try using fresh mint leaves chopped extra fine. In winter use peppermint extract for that holiday feel. Sprinkle with a little flaked sea salt or roll them in crushed nuts for added crunch. Switch to white chocolate chips for extra festive colors at the holidays.

These little treats come together with almost no mess and always satisfy a craving. Enjoy your protein balls any time you need a cool, minty snack.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How can I make the balls less dry?

If the mixture feels too dry, gradually add almond milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.

→ Can I use a different nut butter?

Yes, peanut or cashew butter can be used in place of almond butter for a slight flavor variation.

→ Are these suitable for vegans?

To make them vegan, swap honey for maple syrup and use a plant-based protein powder.

→ How should I store the balls?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness and texture.

→ Can I add other mix-ins?

Feel free to include chia seeds, chopped nuts, or coconut flakes for added crunch and flavor.