Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls

By Adam Fisher

Dietitian Reviewed: Erin McNamara, RDN, LDN, CLT

Recipe Developed for Health eCooks

Photographed By: Adam Fisher

These Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Balls are irresistibly fudgy and chewy and taste just like a scoop of mint chip ice cream (my all-time favorite, but it has to be the green kind)! Made with a nutrient-dense blend of chocolate whey protein, almond flour, oat flour, almond butter, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and rolled oats, they pack 10g of protein in every bite. And for a pop of color and extra flavor, each delicious protein bite is drizzled with minty, light green white chocolate. So if you are looking for a tasty and quick meal prep recipe, these no-bake bites come together in just 30 minutes and double as a satisfying snack or nutritious dessert.

What ingredients will I need to make these mint chocolate bliss balls?

• Chocolate whey protein powder

• Almond flour

• Organic cacao powder

• Oat flour

• Sea salt

• Medjool dates

• Creamy almond butter

• Milled flaxseed

• Chia seeds

• Pure peppermint extract

• Old-fashioned rolled oats

• Mini dark chocolate chips

• White chocolate chips

• Olive oil

• Green food coloring

What kitchen tools will I need to make these mint chocolate protein balls?

• Food processor

• Medium mixing bowl

• Wax paper

• Small zip-top plastic bag or pastry bag

• Small microwave-safe dish

• Large rimmed baking sheet

• Measuring utensils

  • 1-cup liquid measuring cup

  • 1-cup measuring cup

  • ½-cup measuring cup

  • ¼-cup measuring cup

  • Tablespoon

  • ½ teaspoon

  • ¼ teaspoon

How much is too much peppermint extract?

Peppermint is one of my absolute favorite scents and flavors. However, when using pure peppermint extract in a recipe, it can quickly become overpowering. For this recipe, I recommend only using 1¼ teaspoons for the protein balls and a ¼ teaspoon in the mint chocolate drizzle. Depending on how strong you would like the peppermint flavor to be, feel free to use slightly more or less to adjust to your liking.

Can these Mint Chocolate Chip Protein Bites be vegan?

Heck yeah they can! By swapping out the chocolate whey protein powder, dark chocolate chips, and white chocolate chips, these high-protein mint chocolate protein bites can be 100% vegan. Here are a few of my recommendations for vegan ingredient substitutes:

• Enjoy Life Dairy Free 69% Cacao Dark Chocolate Morsels

• Enjoy Life Dairy Free White Chocolate Mini Chips

• Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Rich Chocolate Fudge Plant Protein

Are these protein balls gluten-free?

If you are following a diet without gluten, you will be excited to know that these minty protein balls are 100% gluten-free. My only recommendation is to double check the old-fashioned rolled oats you use are certified gluten-free. Not all rolled oats are made in a dedicated gluten-free facility.

What makes these protein balls a high-protein snack recipe?

Each of these delicious protein bites is packed with 10g of protein! With their protein-dense blend of ingredients (whey protein powder, almond flour, oat flour, creamy almond butter, milled flaxseeds, chia seeds, and old-fashioned rolled oats), they are great for refueling after a workout, satisfying midday sweet tooth cravings, or a nutritious dessert.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?

I highly recommend making a batch of these mint chocolate bites as part of your weekly meal prep. Ready in just 30 minutes, they are an easy high-protein recipe that can be enjoyed any time.

How to store mint chocolate protein balls?

The best way to store these protein bites is in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Alternatively, for longer storage, keep them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. I recommend lining the bottom of the container with wax paper to prevent the protein balls from sticking.