Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls (Printable)
Cool, refreshing mint chocolate energy bites made with oats, nut butter, and protein powder. Ready in 15 minutes.
# What You'll Need:
→ Base Ingredients
01 - 1 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
02 - 1/2 cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder
03 - 1/4 cup almond butter or other nut butter
04 - 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
05 - 1/2 teaspoon pure mint extract
06 - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
07 - 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (dairy-free if vegan)
08 - 2-3 tablespoons milk of choice as needed for binding
→ Optional Add-ins
09 - 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseed meal
10 - Pinch of salt
# How To Make It:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, and salt if using. Stir until evenly distributed.
02 - Add almond butter, honey or maple syrup, mint extract, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix thoroughly until a sticky, uniform dough forms.
03 - Stir in mini chocolate chips and any optional add-ins like chia seeds or flaxseed meal until evenly incorporated throughout the dough.
04 - If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add milk of choice one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition, until the dough holds together when pressed.
05 - Roll the mixture into 12 evenly-sized balls using your hands, applying gentle pressure to ensure they hold their shape.
06 - Place balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to firm up before serving.
07 - Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week for optimal freshness and texture.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- No-bake and ready in fifteen minutes with minimal cleanup required
- Perfectly portioned treats that satisfy chocolate cravings while delivering quality protein
- Customizable ingredients that work with almost any dietary preference or restriction
02 -
- Protein powder absorption varies wildly between brands so always start with less liquid than you think you need because you can always add more
- The mixture should feel like play dough not cookie dough before rolling because wet dough wont hold its shape properly and will stick to your hands
03 -
- Wet your hands slightly with water or oil before rolling to prevent sticking and create smoother surfaces
- Double the batch and freeze half for busy weeks because having healthy snacks ready prevents poor food choices