No Bake Chocolate Peppermint Protein Balls
Quick, easy, and bursting with festive flavors, these no-bake protein balls are the perfect healthy treat for the holidays or any time you need a delicious energy boost!
Equipment
- Medium Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 10 tbsp cocoa powder
- 6 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/4 cup almond butter (use sunbutter for a nut-free option)
- 1/4 cup unflavored pea protein powder (or oat flour)
- 1/4-1/2 tsp peppermint extract (use more if skipping candy canes)
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 2-4 tbsp crushed candy canes (or cacao nibs for a healthy crunch option)
- 2-4 tbsp dairy-free chocolate chips (omit for an even healthier choice)
- 2-4 tbsp water (optional, as needed)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cocoa powder, maple syrup, almond butter, unflavored protein powder, peppermint extract, and sea salt. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended and a thick, uniform batter forms.
- Slowly add water, one teaspoon at a time, *only if needed* to achieve a consistency that is easy to roll. If your almond butter is already quite runny, you might not need any extra water. Be careful not to add too much, as this will make the mixture too soft.
- Fold in the crushed candy canes (or cacao nibs) and dairy-free chocolate chips (if you're using them) until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- For best results, cover the bowl and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. This brief chill time helps the mixture firm up, making the rolling process much easier.
- Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into neat, bite-sized balls, roughly 2 inches in size. If you like, roll the finished balls in a sprinkle of extra crushed candy canes or cacao nibs for a lovely presentation!
Notes
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 118 kcal
- Total Carbs: 16g
- Net Carbs: 14g
- Fats: 5g
- Protein: 4g
