When I was growing up, Candy Cane Protein Balls weren’t a thing yet ,but crushed peppermint and peanut butter absolutely were. Back in our kitchen, my mom would crush candy canes in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin, and that cool minty scent filled the air. My mom always said a little peppermint goes a long way, and trust me on this, she was right. These no bake candy cane protein balls bring that same holiday magic together with a chewy, stovetop style mix that sets beautifully in the fridge. Let me tell you, they’re simple, festive, and completely oven-free.
No-Bake Candy Cane Protein Balls
Equipment
- Medium saucepan (optional for melting) or microwave-safe bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cookie Scoop
- Parchment Paper
- baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- ½ cup vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- 1 cup quick oats
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- ⅓ cup mini chocolate chips
- 3 candy canes finely crushed (divided)
Instructions
- In a microwave-safe bowl or saucepan over low heat, gently melt the peanut butter, honey, and coconut oil until smooth and pourable (about 60–90 seconds in microwave, stirring every 30 seconds). Do not overheat.
- Stir in peppermint extract and sea salt. Let mixture cool for 2–3 minutes so chocolate won’t melt immediately.
- Add protein powder and oats. Mix thoroughly until a thick dough forms.
- Fold in mini chocolate chips and half of the crushed candy canes.
- Using a cookie scoop, form into 18 evenly sized balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle remaining crushed candy cane on top, gently pressing into each ball.
- Chill in refrigerator for 20 minutes, or freezer for 10 minutes, until firm to the touch.
Notes
- Too dry? Add 1 tablespoon peanut butter.
- Too soft? Chill mixture 10 minutes before rolling.
- Peppermint too strong? Reduce to ⅛ teaspoon next batch.
Nutrition
Conclusion
Between you and me, these Candy Cane Protein Balls are the kind of treat my mom would’ve tucked into the fridge and quietly saved for later though somehow they’d still disappear by morning. That cool peppermint crunch mixed with creamy peanut butter takes me right back to winter afternoons in our kitchen, candy canes crushed and scattered across the counter. My mom always said simple ingredients make the best memories, and trust me on this, she was right. These chewy, no-bake bites are festive, quick to set, and perfect for keeping on hand all season long.