Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls
Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls are nutrient-packed, chewy snacks that combine the fresh flavor of mint with rich mini chocolate chips and a protein boost. Perfect for pre-workout energy, a mid-day pick-me-up, or a wholesome treat, these easy-to-make protein balls are customizable, portable, and full of natural ingredients to keep you energized throughout the day without a sugar crash.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12-15 protein balls 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-bake
- Diet: Gluten Free
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup protein powder (whey, plant-based, or collagen)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup nut butter (or sunflower seed butter for nut-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon mint extract (fresh for best flavor)
Add-ins
- 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Start by combining oats, protein powder, and chia or flaxseeds in a large bowl. Mix these well so the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, creating the base of your protein balls.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Next, add the nut butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and mint extract into the bowl. Stir everything until a sticky dough begins to form. You may need to use your hands to knead the mixture gently.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Once your dough is combined, carefully fold in the mini chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly mixed without melting or losing their shape.
- Shape the Balls: Pinch off portions of dough and roll them between your palms to form bite-sized balls. Aim for roughly one-inch diameter to make the perfect, snackable size.
- Chill and Set: Place the formed balls on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape nicely, ready to enjoy whenever you want.
Notes
- Use fresh mint extract: It makes a world of difference by giving your protein balls a vibrant and authentic minty flavor.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and avoid dense protein balls.
- Adjust sweetness carefully: Depending on your protein powder and preference, tweak the honey or syrup levels gradually.
- Chill for best results: Always refrigerate after shaping to help the balls solidify and improve flavor blending.
- Keep chocolate chips small: Mini chips are perfect for evenly dispersing flavor without overwhelming every bite.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 protein ball
- Calories: 110-130
- Sugar: 5-7g
- Sodium: 30-50mg
- Fat: 6-8g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4-6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Protein: 6-8g
- Cholesterol: 0-5mg
Keywords: Mint, Chocolate Chip, Protein Balls, Healthy Snack, Energy Boost, No-bake, Gluten-Free, Vegan option