Chai Spice Protein Balls With Adaptogens

Chai tea is one of my favorites this time of year and I love incorporating chai spices into baked goods. The aroma of cinnamon, clove, and cardamom warming the kitchen feels like a cozy hug. These adaptogenic chai spice protein balls capture that same cozy flavor with the benefit of adaptogens.

They’re slightly sweet, warmly spiced, and have a soft, chewy texture that makes them feel indulgent, even though they’re packed with nutrients. Each protein ball is full of ingredients that help support energy, focus, and immune health. Especially helpful during the colder (often chaotic) months when our bodies could use an extra boost.

These are great to make ahead for snacks and they also freeze well for later. The protein balls provide healthy fats, protein, and adaptogens to help your body handle stress more effectively. Added collagen also supports gut health, healthier skin, and stronger hair and nails. 

Warming Chai Spices

Cinnamon, clove, cardamom, and ginger aren’t just tasty, they offer powerful immune system support. Cinnamon helps balance blood sugar and adds natural sweetness without needing much added sugar. Clove is rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial to help support cellular health. 

Cardamom is both soothing and invigorating, known for its ability to calm digestion while boosting circulation. And ginger brings its signature gentle heat and anti-inflammatory benefits, helping support immune and digestive health.

Together, these cozy chai spices add a delicious flavor and powerful health benefits! While I’ve included the spices separately in the recipe, you can also use 2 and ½ teaspoons of my homemade pumpkin pie spice blend. The flavor is similar, and it’s easy to use if you already have some mixed up. 

Mighty Adaptogens

Adaptogens are plants and mushrooms that help the body be more resilient to stressors. Whether its physical, emotional, or environmental. Unlike potent medicines, they help bolster the body’s cellular health and defenses to restore balance. 

There are several different true adaptogens, and some work better for different situations. I opted to use a functional mushroom blend here because it helps provide broader support than just choosing one thing. 

Adaptogenic mushrooms help support focus, sleep, energy, and calm, depending on which combination you choose. I like the adaptogenic mushroom blends from Four Sigmatic, which often include varieties like reishi, lion’s mane, and cordyceps.

• Reishi is sometimes referred to as the “queen of mushrooms” for its calming properties. It helps with restful sleep and supports the immune system.
• Lion’s Mane supports mental clarity and focus. Perfect for that mid-afternoon slump.
• Cordyceps helps boost stamina and energy naturally without caffeine.

Whatever blend you go with, be sure to choose a quality blend that isn’t overly earthy or bitter so the flavor balances well with chai spices. 

More Healthy Ingredients (and Substitutions)

Collagen is one of my favorite additions to stir into drinks or even baked goods. It’s an easy way to add clean protein that supports gut health, joint health, and vibrant skin. Since collagen is flavorless, it blends seamlessly with the almond butter and spices.

Almond butter (or cashew butter) adds a nutty richness and healthy fats that help keep you full. They also make the protein balls perfectly soft and chewy. If you’re avoiding nuts, sunflower seed butter also works. I don’t recommend peanut butter here, since its strong flavor tends to overpower the delicate chai spices.

Hemp seeds add a pleasant crunch and an extra boost of omega-3s, plus a complete amino acid profile. They’re great for energy, muscle recovery, and healthy hair and skin. Honey helps bind the ingredients together and adds a touch of sweetness, plus enzymes and minerals. If you prefer, pure maple syrup works just as well.

How to Enjoy Them

These chai spice protein balls are wonderful as a quick snack for an afternoon energy boost, or even post-workout. They keep well in the fridge for about a week, and you can easily double the recipe to freeze for later.

It feels like you’re eating dessert, but they’re full of nourishing ingredients. Warming, grounding, and just a little sweet. These are a great go-to snack for supporting focus and calm while keeping your immune system strong through the changing seasons.

More Adaptogen Recipes

We could all use a little more stress relief and resilience! Here are some more recipes that feature adaptogens for a health boost. 

Have you used adaptogens before? What are some of your favorite ways to consume them? Leave a comment and let us know!