Name: Chocolate Peppermint Energy Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1 cup of oats; ½ cup of cocoa powder; 1/4 cup of unflavored protein powder; 1 tablespoon flaxseed; 3 tablespoons hot water; 1/4 cup almond butter; 2 tablespoons date paste; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; ¼ cup peppermint chocolate chips (Trader Joe’s)

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If you’re looking for a snack that’s as festive as it is nourishing, these Chocolate Peppermint Energy Bites are about to become your new best friend. Packed with oats, almond butter, and flaxseed, these bites are ideal for pre-workout fuel, post-dinner cravings, or just to have on hand during the busy holiday season. They’re so tasty, you’ll forget they’re actually good for you!

As I start my winter training for a 10K race next spring, these energy bites will definitely be my go-to snack. With only 10 minutes of prep time, they’re perfect for busy days when I need a quick and easy treat. Plus, they’re gluten-free, vegan, and naturally sweetened, making them a great option for a balanced lifestyle that fuels both body and spirit!

Ingredients

1 cup oats
½ cup cocoa powder
¼ cup unflavored protein powder
1 tablespoon flaxseed
3 tablespoons hot water
¼ cup almond butter
2 tablespoons date paste
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
¼ cup peppermint chocolate chips (Trader Joe’s)

Instructions

Prepare the Flax Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the flaxseed with the hot water and let it sit for about 10 minutes to create a flax “egg.” This step adds a boost of fiber and helps hold the bites together.

Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, cocoa powder, protein powder, almond butter, date paste, maple syrup, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and peppermint chocolate chips.

Add the flax mixture to the bowl and stir until everything is well combined.

Almond, white chocolate, cocoa powder, spices, and dried fruit ingredients in stainless steel bowl for baking or cooking.

Form the Bites

Using a large spoon or cookie scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized balls. Place each ball into a storage container as you go.

Chill and Store

Pop these bites in the fridge, where they’ll keep fresh for up to 10 days—perfect for snacking all week!

White bowl filled with chocolate peppermint oat balls

Why I Love These Chocolate Peppermint Energy Bites

I created these energy bites as a healthier option to enjoy throughout the holiday season, but let’s be real—I'll be making these year-round! The combination of peppermint and chocolate is a holiday classic, but with ingredients like oats, almond butter, and flaxseed, these bites are a nutritional powerhouse. They’re high in fiber, plant-based protein, and healthy fats, which keeps my energy steady whether I’m training, working, or sneaking in a midnight snack.

These energy bites are also a perfect addition to any holiday treat spread! Add them to a snack board or a 2025 Holiday Cookie Box for a healthier option alongside traditional treats like Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies and White Chocolate Pretzel & Peanut Stacks.

Why These Are the Ideal Functional Snack

As a certified functional strength coach and functional nutrition specialist, I’m all about balanced, nutrient-dense snacks that fuel the body and taste amazing. These Chocolate Peppermint Energy Bites are packed with fiber from oats, protein from almond butter and protein powder, and healthy fats from flaxseed, making them a great option to support training, workday focus, or simply balanced living.

Tips for Success

Make It Your Own: Don’t have peppermint chocolate chips? Swap them for dark chocolate chips and add a touch more peppermint extract.
Storage Tips: These bites stay fresh in the fridge for up to 10 days, but you can also freeze them for up to a month.