Easy & Delicious No-Bake Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls
Satisfy your cravings for something sweet, chocolatey, and good-for-you with these unbelievably easy and quick no-bake protein balls. Combining the classic flavors of mint and chocolate in a healthy, bite-sized treat, they come together in minutes and are perfect for busy days or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl medium-sized
- Spoon for mixing, or use hands
- small cookie scoop optional, for portioning
- Plate or baking sheet
- Parchment paper optional, for lining baking sheet
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients
Hauptzutaten
- 0.5 cup Rolled Oats (50g)
- 1 cup Almond Butter (240g) Use a smooth, natural almond butter.
- 2 tbsp Honey (42g). Can substitute maple syrup for a vegan option.
- 0.25 cup Vanilla Protein Powder (30g). Use your favorite brand (whey or plant-based).
- 0.25 tsp Peppermint Extract Start with 1/4 teaspoon; add more carefully if a stronger mint flavor is desired.
- 0.25 cup Mini Dark Chocolate Chips (40g).
- 1 tbsp Unsweetened Almond Milk 1-2 tbsp (15-30ml). Use if needed to achieve rolling consistency.
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, honey, and peppermint extract. Stir them together until they are well combined and smooth.
- Add the rolled oats and vanilla protein powder to the bowl. Start mixing everything together.
- Keep mixing. The mixture should come together into a thick, workable "dough." If it feels too dry and isn't holding together, add the unsweetened almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing completely before adding more. The mixture should be moist enough to roll into balls, but not sticky.
- Once the dough is the right consistency, gently fold in the mini dark chocolate chips. Make sure they are distributed evenly.
- Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball (about 1-1.5 inches). Place the finished balls on a plate or baking sheet (lined with parchment paper if desired).
- Pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before enjoying. This improves texture and firmness.
Notes
Tips:
- The amount of almond milk needed can vary; pay attention to the dough consistency.
- Peppermint extract is potent; start with 1/4 teaspoon.
- Don't skip the chilling step if possible.
- Dough can be prepped a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Substitutions/Additions:
- Nut butter: Peanut butter or cashew butter can substitute almond butter.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or agave nectar work as vegan alternatives to honey.
- Protein Powder: Chocolate protein powder can replace vanilla.
- Chocolate Chips: Use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or cacao nibs.
- Boosters: Add chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts. Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
- Freeze for 2-3 months by placing in a single layer until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag/container. FAQs:
- Vegan: Yes, swap honey for maple syrup/agave and use plant-based protein.
- Gluten-free: Yes, if using certified gluten-free rolled oats.
- Kids: Yes, a healthier snack option (check for nut allergies).
- The amount of almond milk needed can vary; pay attention to the dough consistency.
- Peppermint extract is potent; start with 1/4 teaspoon.
- Don't skip the chilling step if possible.
- Dough can be prepped a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Substitutions/Additions:
- Nut butter: Peanut butter or cashew butter can substitute almond butter.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup or agave nectar work as vegan alternatives to honey.
- Protein Powder: Chocolate protein powder can replace vanilla.
- Chocolate Chips: Use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or cacao nibs.
- Boosters: Add chia seeds, flax seeds, hemp seeds, shredded coconut, or chopped nuts. Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks.
- Freeze for 2-3 months by placing in a single layer until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag/container. FAQs:
- Vegan: Yes, swap honey for maple syrup/agave and use plant-based protein.
- Gluten-free: Yes, if using certified gluten-free rolled oats.
- Kids: Yes, a healthier snack option (check for nut allergies).