
When cravings kick in but I still wanna eat smart, I grab Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls. Creamy almond butter and just a hint of peppermint make these little treats perfect for a sweet snack, whether I'm dodging dessert or looking for a quick bite to hold me over.
I whipped up my first batch as a treat after working out and now my buddies keep hounding me for them. They're so simple to make that my kids always want to help roll the dough and sneak the chocolate chips.
Tasty Ingredients
- Unsweetened almond milk: softens up the mix just right if things feel dry. Give it a good shake before pouring to keep it creamy.
- Mini dark chocolate chips: bring chocolate surprises to every bite and offset the mint. Grab chips with at least sixty percent cacao for a richer taste.
- Peppermint extract: gives the energizing mint vibe. Don't overdo it, and pick pure extract if you can.
- Vanilla protein powder: powers up each bite. Use one that actually tastes good on its own.
- Honey: naturally sweetens and acts like glue for the mixture. Real honey adds a bit of floral flavor.
- Almond butter: makes things creamy and packs in healthy fats. Stick with smooth and unsweetened for the best results.
- Rolled oats: keep you full and add hearty texture. Whole rolled oats are the way to go for the right chew.
Simple Instructions
- Chill the Balls:
- Drop your rolled balls onto a tray lined with parchment. Space them out so they don't touch. Pop the tray in the fridge at least twenty minutes until everything firms up and the flavors blend.
- Shape the Balls:
- Take about a tablespoon of dough and use your hands to roll it tight into a ball. You'll get around twelve to fifteen total.
- Add Chocolate:
- Toss in your mini chocolate chips and use a light hand to mix so you don't smash them.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the dough seems crumbly, pour in a tablespoon of almond milk at a time and stir. Keep adding until it easily holds together but isn't tacky.
- Mix Your Base:
- Grab a big bowl and add oats, almond butter, honey, protein powder, and peppermint extract. Mix with a sturdy spatula until you can't see dry spots and everything sticks together.

I love the chocolate chip part because it's like making cookies from scratch as a kid. Mint really makes the chocolate pop and keeps every bite extra refreshing, especially after exercise or when it’s blazing hot out.
Keeping Them Fresh
Stash your protein balls in a sealed container in the fridge for a week. Or pop them in the freezer and they'll last up to three months. Let frozen ones sit out ten minutes before eating if you want them soft and tasty.
Swap Outs
Try peanut or cashew butter if almond isn't your thing. Maple syrup stands in for honey if you want a no-animal option. For more chocolate, use chocolate-flavored protein powder or toss in some chia seeds for bonus texture and nutrients.
How to Enjoy
Pair these up with fruit or toss into a lunchbox for a portable bite. Crumble one over oats or a smoothie bowl for a new topping. They’re awesome after workouts or as a sweet finish after dinner, too.

Where They're From
Mint and chocolate have teamed up in desserts for ages. This healthier spin is a nod to that old school mint chip ice cream we all love, just minus the sugar bomb. Energy balls like these have roots in the fitness world and are a hit with folks who want easy, healthy snacks.
Common Questions
- → Can I use another kind of nut butter?
Totally! Try peanut or cashew butter if you're after a switch-up in taste.
- → What's the vegan-friendly swap here?
Go for maple syrup instead of honey and make sure your protein powder is plant-based.
- → Do these freeze alright?
Yup! Pop them in a sealed container and tuck away in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw before snacking.
- → Which protein powder should I grab?
Vanilla whey or just about any plant-based powder mixes in nice and boosts the mint chocolate flavor.
- → How do I keep the mix from getting all sticky?
Stick it in the fridge for about 5-10 minutes before you roll. You can also oil your hands a little for less mess.
- → Is it okay to add other stuff?
Definitely! Toss in some chia or flax seeds if you want a little crunch and extra nutrients.