Dark Chocolate Peppermint Protein Bites

I hope you’re not sick of peppermint flavored treats! I’m sure not and am using up the rest of my candy canes for this healthy, protein-packed snack to enjoy before or after my workouts.

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Protein Bites

• 1 cup of Old Fashioned Oats
• 1/4 cup All Natural Peanut Butter
• 1 scoop fitmixer Chocolate Protein Powder
• 2 tbsp. Dark Chocolate Cocoa Powder
• 2 tbsp. Hemp Seeds (optional)
• 3-4 tbsp. Honey
• 1 tsp. Peppermint Extract
• 1 tbsp. Chopped Candy Cane
• 2 tbsp. Dark Chocolate Chips

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl by hand or stand mixer until mixed well. If the mixture is too dry, add another tablespoon of peanut butter or honey. These will dry up slightly when stored in the fridge. Roll into small, bite-size balls and refrigerate until ready to eat. These are a perfect way to use up some of those candy canes while enjoying a healthy snack!

Now, you might be thinking, “how are these healthy for you with all that chocolate and honey?” Well, it’s definitely not as healthy as eating say, fresh vegetables or fruit, however, it does have some wonderful ingredients that pack a lot of nutrients. Take Hemp Seeds for example. One of the major health benefits of hemp seeds is that they contain essential fatty acids, which you need for optimal health. They are also high in protein, Vitamin E and Magnesium. They have a slight nutty taste and are softer than flaxseed or chia seeds so they are extremely versatile. Now, let’s talk about Dark Chocolate. Most of us know it’s better for us than milk chocolate, but why? Well, dark chocolate contains antioxidants called flavonoids that are beneficial to our health. A few of these health benefits include lowering blood pressure, decreasing DNA damage (DNA damage contributes to heart disease, stroke and diabetes), reduces emotional stress and lessens cravings for more sugar. All great reasons to enjoy some chocolate! Finally, while there is just a slight amount of it, Peppermint extract can actually be beneficial to your health, as well! I personally love peppermint and use it often to calm an upset stomach, which is just one of the benefits of this plant-based substance. Studies also show that peppermint extract can help to treat indigestion, flatulence, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.

Now, if those aren’t reason enough for you to make these delicious protein bites, maybe this picture will help make up your mind