These rich, festive protein balls pair chocolate and peppermint flavor perfectly – made with only five simple ingredients, and delivering about 10 grams of protein each! They’re gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or anytime you want a healthy sweet snack. Crunchy candy-cane topping meets a creamy almond-butter base plus chocolate protein for a satisfying treat!

chocolate peppermint protein balls in a small bowl.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Peppermint Protein Balls

Creamy nut/seed butter and chocolate protein powder combine for a high-protein snack that also satisfies your sweet tooth.
The peppermint extract and candy-cane topping bring a festive, refreshing twist without added junk.
Quick to make, simple to store, and perfect for holiday prepping (or regular snack stash).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does any nut or seed butter work?
Yes – almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter, or even peanut butter will work!
What protein powder do you use?
Aloha Chocolate Protein Powder or any high-quality chocolate-flavored protein works; opt for vegan if you want fully plant-based.
How do I store these protein balls?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months and thaw before eating.

Close up image of chocolate peppermint protein balls in a small bowl.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Swap almond butter for cashew or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version!
Omit candy-canes and sprinkle sea-salt flakes or cocoa nibs instead.
Use sugar-free dark chocolate chips to reduce added sugars while keeping richness.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

If the mixture seems too dry to roll, add one tablespoon of non-dairy milk at a time until you can comfortably roll it.
Use parchment-lined tray before freezing to prevent sticking, and press the crushed candy-canes lightly so they adhere to the chocolate coating.
For smoother melting, heat chocolate chips + coconut oil in 30-second bursts, stirring between intervals to avoid burning.

Chocolate Peppermint Protein Balls

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Prep Time10

Total Time10

Servings servings

Equipment

1 medium bowl
1 small bowl

Ingredients

1 cup chocolate protein powder if unsweetened, add 3 tablespoons of maple syrup to this recipe
1/2 cup almond butter or cashew butter
3-4 tablespoons non-dairy milk
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

For the chocolate coating:

1/2 cup chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil optional
crushed candy canes optional

Method

Add the almond butter, chocolate protein powder, peppermint extract, and non-dairy milk to a bowl and mix until fully combined. Continue adding one tablespoon of non-dairy milk if the mixture seems too dry to roll into balls.
Scoop the truffles with a medium-sized cookie scoop into about 2 tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls between the palms of your hands. Transfer the balls to the freezer for a few minutes while you prepare the topping.
Melt together the chocolate chips and coconut oil in either the microwave or over a double boiler until completely smooth.
Dip each protein truffle into the melted chocolate, then carefully transfer to a parchment-lined plate. Sprinkle the truffles with crushed candy canes, then transfer to the fridge until the chocolate has hardened.