These Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls are a perfect blend of refreshingly cool mint and rich chocolate, packed with protein to fuel your day. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a post-workout treat, these protein balls are easy to make, nutritious, and completely guilt-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls are not only a delicious and satisfying snack, but they’re also full of wholesome ingredients to keep you energized. The combination of oats, almond butter, and protein powder makes them a great source of protein and fiber. Plus, the minty flavor and chocolate chips add the perfect touch of sweetness. They’re quick to prepare, require no baking, and are ideal for meal prep or a healthy treat anytime you need a boost!
Ingredients
For the base
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2 cups rolled oats (ensure gluten-free oats if necessary)
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1 cup almond butter (substitute with peanut butter for a different flavor)
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1/3 cup honey (for a vegan option, use maple syrup)
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1 scoop vanilla protein powder (any protein powder works, adjust liquid ingredients as needed)
For the flavor
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1 teaspoon peppermint extract (use fewer drops for a milder taste)
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1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips (opt for dairy-free chips for a vegan option)
For consistency
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1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (use to adjust consistency if the mixture is too dry)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, almond butter, honey, vanilla protein powder, and peppermint extract. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
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Adjust Consistency: If the mixture feels too dry, gradually add unsweetened almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition until you reach the desired consistency.
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Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini dark chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
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Shape Balls: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, take a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all of the mixture has been shaped into balls.
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Chill: Place the rolled protein balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
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Store: Once chilled, transfer the protein balls to an airtight container, layering parchment paper between them if necessary. Store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 balls.
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Chilling time: 20 minutes
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Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Flavor Twist: Try using different protein powder flavors such as chocolate or mocha for a unique variation on this recipe.
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Nut Options: Swap almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or any nut or seed butter of your choice.
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Add-Ins: You can add other mix-ins like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried fruit (like raisins or cranberries) for added texture and flavor.
Storage/reheating
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They don’t need to be reheated and are great to grab as a quick snack or post-workout fuel.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or any other nut or seed butter you prefer. Just keep in mind that this will slightly alter the flavor.
How do I make these protein balls vegan?
To make them vegan, simply swap honey for maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips. You can also use a plant-based protein powder for a completely vegan version.
How do I store these protein balls?
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I adjust the sweetness?
Yes! You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup, depending on your preference.
Can I use a different flavor of protein powder?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chocolate, mocha, or even plant-based protein powder to create different flavor profiles for your protein balls.
How do I know if the mixture is too dry?
If the mixture doesn’t hold together when you try to form a ball, it’s too dry. Simply add a tablespoon of almond milk at a time until it reaches a dough-like consistency.
Can I use a different kind of milk?
Yes, you can use any milk you prefer, such as oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk.
Can I make these protein balls without protein powder?
Yes, you can omit the protein powder, but keep in mind that it will reduce the protein content. You may need to adjust the amount of oats or liquid to ensure the right texture.
Can I make these protein balls ahead of time?
Yes, these protein balls are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
Are these protein balls suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free oats, these protein balls are completely gluten-free.
Conclusion
These Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls are the ultimate guilt-free snack that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while providing a healthy dose of protein. Whether you’re looking for a post-workout boost or a quick bite during the day, these protein balls are easy to make, customizable, and delicious. With their refreshing minty flavor and rich chocolate chips, they are sure to become your new favorite snack!
Print
Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 12 protein balls
Description
These Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls are a guilt-free snack that perfectly blends refreshing mint and rich chocolate. Packed with protein and fiber, they make the ideal post-workout treat or healthy snack anytime you need an energy boost. Easy to prepare with no baking required, these protein balls are a delicious and nutritious option for meal prep or a quick snack.
Ingredients
For the Base:
2 cups rolled oats (ensure gluten-free oats if necessary)
1 cup almond butter (or peanut butter for a different flavor)
1/3 cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
1 scoop vanilla protein powder (adjust liquid ingredients as needed)
For the Flavor:
1 teaspoon peppermint extract (use fewer drops for a milder taste)
1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips (opt for dairy-free chips for a vegan option)
For Consistency:
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (add more as needed to adjust consistency)
Instructions
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add rolled oats, almond butter, honey, vanilla protein powder, and peppermint extract. Stir until well combined.
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Adjust Consistency: If the mixture is too dry, add almond milk one tablespoon at a time until the dough-like consistency is reached.
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Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the mini dark chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed.
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Shape Balls: Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into balls. Repeat until all of the mixture is used up.
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Chill: Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
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Store: Once chilled, transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
Notes
- Vegan Version: Swap honey for maple syrup and use dairy-free chocolate chips to make these protein balls vegan-friendly.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different protein powder flavors like chocolate or mocha for a unique twist.
- Add-Ins: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or dried fruit (raisins, cranberries) for extra texture and nutrients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
