I learned a long time ago how boring store-bought protein bars can get, which is why I started making my own. Some of my favorite flavored bars have been cinnamon, chocolate, and mint chocolate chip. Whether you need a grab-and-go breakfast or a sweet treat, these mint chocolate chip bars will help you satisfy your hunger AND sweet tooth. Plus, they’re far cheaper than store-bought bars.
Why this recipe works
A no-bake recipe. No oven is needed, making this an even more effortless recipe. Vegan and gluten-free. Naturally gluten-free and easily vegan using plant-based protein powder and non-dairy milk. Minimal prep time. All you have to do is combine the ingredients and shape them in your baking dish. Most of the time spent making these bars is patiently waiting for them to firm up in the fridge.
If you love the mint chocolate combination as much as I do, then you know quality mint chocolate treats are hard to come by. These bars have the perfect balance of fresh peppermint flavor and chocolate richness.
Ingredients needed (and substitutions)
This recipe calls for simple ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. Here’s everything you’ll need:
Rolled oats. Either original rolled oats or certified gluten-free oats. Crispy rice cereal. For crunchy texture. Any crispy rice cereal will work, including rice krispies or brown rice cereal. Cocoa powder. For rich chocolate flavor. Protein powder. Preferably chocolate-flavored protein powder to add extra chocolate notes, but vanilla or unflavored can also work. Almond butter. Make your own or use any nut butter or seed butter you prefer. Maple syrup. For sweetness and to bind the ingredients. You can also use agave nectar or honey if not vegan. Peppermint extract. A little goes a long way to adding tons of bright peppermint flavor. Milk. To help the ingredients mix. Use any dairy or non-dairy milk of your choosing. Chocolate chips. To add extra chocolate flavor and texture.
Find the printable recipe with measurements below.
How to make mint chocolate chip protein bars
What I love about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. Feel free to taste the bars as you go and adjust any flavorings as needed. Step 1- Prep work. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside. Step 2- Combine dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients and mix well. Step 3- Combine wet ingredients. In a microwave-safe bowl or small saucepan, combine almond butter and maple syrup and heat until the mixture melts. You may need to stir to fully combine. Step 4- Combine wet and dry ingredients. Add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and add the peppermint extract. Stir until combined. If the batter is too crumbly, slowly add milk, one tablespoon at a time. Step 5- Shape protein bars. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and press firmly with your hands to evenly press the bars into the pan. Top with chocolate chips. Step 6- Refrigerate and slice. Refrigerate the bars until firm, then slice them into equal-sized bars.
Recipe tips and variations
Use wet or lightly oiled hands. To press the batter into the baking pan without making a mess. Add a chocolate drizzle. For more chocolate flavor, melt some chocolate chips with a splash of milk and drizzle it over the bars before putting them in the fridge. Coat the knife with nonstick cooking spray. So you can slice the bars without sticking. Wipe the knife clean after each slice. Use peppermint chips instead of chocolate chips. To really elevate the peppermint flavor. Sprinkle sea salt on top. To enhance the rest of the ingredients and add a little savory-sweet element. Add nuts. For more protein and flavor, mix in some chopped nuts or use a chunky nut butter.
Storage instructions
To store: Homemade mint chocolate chip bars are best stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 2 weeks. To freeze: Place the bars in a freezer-safe container with sheets of parchment between them and freeze the bars for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them thaw overnight in the fridge.
Frequently asked questions
More protein bar recipes to try
Coconut protein bars– Made with 5 ingredients, they taste just like bounty bars! Banana protein bars– Think banana bread, but way healthier. Cookie dough protein bars– Only 3 key ingredients and no added sugar. Snickers protein bars– The ultimate candy bar, made healthy and with over 15 grams of protein. Protein crunch bars– Low carb extra crunchy protein bars made with or without protein powder.
