December 21, 2021

Chocolate Peppermint Bites

These chocolate peppermint bites are the perfect ratio of chocolate to peppermint (and super festive around the holidays). Chocolate and peppermint are a classic combination that can take many forms and these energy bites are ideal: they're sweet, satisfying, and a balanced snack!

No-Bake Desserts

No-bake desserts (or snacks in this case) are typically easy to make. They involve no cooking or baking and usually involve mixing ingredients together to create a delicious treat. I love these chocolate peppermint bites because they fall under that category and can be considered a dessert, snack, or even small breakfast! They're perfect for when you're on the run and need a quick and satisfying snack.

Plate of chocolate peppermint bites stacked on top of each other. A bowl of crushed candy canes in the top left and a bowl of melted chocolate in the top right. The fork used to drizzle the melted chocolate is in the bottom right on the picture.

How to Make Energy Bites

Making energy bites at home can be quite simple. Mix together a nut butter of choice (peanut, almond, cashew, sunflower, soy nut, etc.), a little sweetener (honey, maple syrup, dates), protein powder (any flavor you want), and add-ins (oats, chocolate chips, different extracts, dried fruit, etc.). The options are endless!

Once you dump everything into a bowl, mix. You may need to get your hands dirty and use your hands to make sure everything is evenly mixed through. Then, roll the dough into bite-sized balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. You can either drizzle them with melted chocolate or sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles, or pop directly into the fridge or freezer. And that's it! They're ready to enjoy whenever hunger or sweet tooth strikes.

A chocolate peppermint bite drizzled with chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes. Candy cane pieces scattered around and the fork used to drizzle the chocolate is to the left of the protein bite. A glass of candy canes is in the background.

Ingredient Highlights - Chocolate Peppermint Bites

Almond butter - I use natural nut butters in all recipes so of course, I use natural almond butter. There are no trans fats in natural nut butters and overall less ingredients. Almond butter is full of unsaturated fats, magnesium, calcium, and vitamin E.
Chocolate protein powder - as with all supplements, I always recommend a third-party tested protein powder to make sure you're consuming a high-quality supplement that isn't contaminated with anything not listed on the label. NSF for Sport is a great third-party testing company I always check before purchasing a supplement! I always opt for a protein powder that is mostly protein (like whey protein isolate) and has minimal carbs and fats.
Cocoa powder - this adds a deeper chocolate flavor and contains nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and iron! Be sure to use unsweetened. You can use sweetened, but the bites will then be a little sweeter!
Honey - this obviously adds some sweetness but also helps the bites stick together.
Peppermint extract - peppermint extract gives these bites the perfect hint of mint. You can use more or less depending on your preference but a little bit goes a long way!
Candy canes - to make these festive around the holidays, I drizzle melted chocolate and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top! This is totally optional.

Recipe FAQ

Are energy bites good for you?

This is a loaded question! You don't want to eat too much of a good thing so they are good for you in moderation 🙂 These chocolate peppermint bites are a great balanced snack, breakfast, or dessert if you're on the go and need something quick or have a sweet tooth!

How long do protein balls last in the fridge?

I would recommend consuming them within 1 week and storing them in an air-tight container in the fridge. You can freeze them as well and store them for up to 2 months.

What if the energy bite dough is crumbly?

This is common. I try to press the clump of dough into my palm and squeeze to see if the warmer temperature helps it stick together better. If that isn't working, I add another tablespoon or two of nut butter or honey and try again!

A dish of chocolate peppermint bites stacked on top of each other and candy cane pieces scattered around. A bowl of melted chocolate in the back right corner and bowl of crushed candy cane pieces in the top left.

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Baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chocolate peppermint bites placed on top. They're drizzled with chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy cane pieces. A bowl of candy cane pieces is in the bottom right corner.

Rate & Review

If you made my chocolate peppermint bites, please rate and review my recipe below! I would love to hear your feedback. Also snap a photo and tag me on insta @theperfectpearr so I can see your creation!