Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls are a refreshing and tasty snack that blends cool mint with rich chocolate chips and a good boost of protein. These bite-sized treats are chewy, a little sweet, and perfect for when you need a quick pick-me-up without any guilt.
I love making these because they come together so fast and don’t need any baking, which means less waiting and more snacking. Adding protein powder gives them a little extra staying power, so they’re great to grab before or after a workout. The hint of mint always makes me feel like I’m having a little dessert, but it’s packed with good stuff.
My favorite way to enjoy these protein balls is with a glass of cold milk or right out of the fridge when they’re firm and cool. They travel well too, so I like to pack a few in my bag for busy days when I need something tasty and filling on the go. It’s a simple snack that brings a little freshness and chocolate joy any time of the day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Almond Flour: This gives the balls a nice soft texture and nutty flavor. If you’re allergic or don’t have almond flour, finely ground oats work well too.
Protein Powder: I use vanilla protein powder for a little sweetness, but unflavored works great if you want the mint to stand out. Plant-based or whey protein both work here.
Peppermint Extract: This is what brings the cool mint flavor. Use pure extract for best results and start with a teaspoon; you can add more if you want it stronger.
Coconut Oil: Melted coconut oil helps bind everything together and adds healthy fat. If you don’t like coconut, melted butter or another neutral oil can be substituted.
Mini Chocolate Chips: They add that sweet crunch and chocolate charm. Dark or semi-sweet chips are my favorite, but you can swap for dairy-free or sugar-free versions if needed.
How Do I Get the Protein Balls to Hold Together Without Being Sticky?
The trick is in the balance of wet and dry ingredients. Here’s what I do:
- Start with your dry mix well blended to avoid clumps.
- Add the melted coconut oil and peppermint extract next, mixing thoroughly.
- Slowly add almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just sticks together but isn’t too wet.
- If it feels too sticky, toss in a bit more almond flour or protein powder.
- Once it’s easy to shape but holds firm, fold in the chocolate chips gently to avoid melting.
- Roll the dough into balls with your hands—if they feel crumbly, a light press will help pack them.
- Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this helps them firm up and maintain their shape.
With these steps, you’ll get nicely shaped protein balls that aren’t sticky or crumbly. Keep the dough cool if your kitchen is warm, and enjoy a perfect mint chocolate treat every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – I use a large one to combine everything easily and a small one for folding in the chocolate chips.
- Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements help get the right texture and flavor.
- Food scale (optional) – for accurate portioning if you want uniform-sized balls.
- Small scoop or spoon – makes shaping the balls quick and even.
- Refrigerator – to firm up the balls so they keep their shape when you handle them.
- On a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper – to place the balls while chilling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap peppermint extract for vanilla or almond extract to change the flavor profile.
- Add crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for extra crunch and a festive look.
- Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
- Use dark chocolate chips, white chocolate, or mini M&Ms instead of regular dark chocolate for varied sweetness and color.
Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour (or finely ground oats for a different texture)
- 1/2 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol or preferred sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 3-4 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup mini dark chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (for rolling the balls, optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and shape. After that, you’ll need at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the protein balls firm up properly. So about 40 minutes total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, stir together the almond flour, protein powder, powdered sweetener, cocoa powder (if using), and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined.
2. Adding Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the peppermint extract and melted coconut oil, then mix well to combine everything.
3. Forming the Dough:
Add the almond milk a tablespoon at a time, stirring after each, until the mixture becomes thick and moldable. It should hold together without being sticky or crumbly.
4. Adding the Chocolate Chips:
Fold in the mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
5. Shaping the Balls:
Using your hands or a small scoop, roll the dough into roughly 1-inch balls. Press extra chocolate chips onto the outside if you like for a nice decorative touch.
6. Optional Cocoa Powder Coating:
If you want, lightly roll each ball in cocoa powder for an extra chocolate flavor and pretty finish.
7. Chilling:
Place the balls on a tray or plate lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so they firm up.
8. Storing and Enjoying:
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in your fridge. Enjoy them chilled anytime you want a tasty, minty treat with a chocolate crunch.
Can I Use Different Protein Powders?
Yes! Both plant-based and whey protein powders work well here. Just keep in mind some powders absorb liquid differently, so adjust the almond milk amount if the dough feels too dry or sticky.
Can I Make These Protein Balls Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Prepare them up to 3 days in advance and keep them refrigerated in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and firm, making them an easy grab-and-go snack.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover protein balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container and thaw a few minutes before enjoying.
What If I Don’t Have Peppermint Extract?
You can swap peppermint extract for vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor twist. If you want the minty freshness, you could also finely chop fresh mint leaves but reduce the amount to avoid bitterness.