Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe

Introduction

Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack that combines the creamy taste of cheesecake with the natural sweetness of strawberries. These no-bake bites are perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 4 oz softened cream cheese (full-fat or reduced-fat)
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (crushed into a fine powder)
• 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: chia seeds or mini white chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Step 1: Soften the cream cheese and prepare all ingredients. Crush the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
2. Step 2: In a food processor, combine the oats, almond flour, protein powder, cream cheese, crushed strawberries, honey, and vanilla extract. Blend until a sticky dough forms that holds together when pressed.
3. Step 3: If the dough feels too dry, add water or milk one teaspoon at a time until it comes together. If too sticky, add a little more almond flour.
4. Step 4: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough. Roll between your palms to form 1-inch diameter balls.
5. Step 5: Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
6. Step 6: Transfer the set protein balls to an airtight container and store in the fridge or freezer.

Tips & Variations

• For added texture, mix in chia seeds or mini white chocolate chips before forming the balls.
• Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option.
• Adjust the protein powder flavor to chocolate or berry for a different twist.
• If you don’t have almond flour, finely ground oats can be a substitute, though texture may vary slightly.

Storage

Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw in the fridge for a few hours or let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Fresh strawberries contain more moisture, which would affect the dough consistency. Freeze-dried strawberries are best because they provide intense flavor without adding extra wetness.

Are these protein balls suitable for kids?

Yes, they make a healthy and tasty snack for kids, especially if you choose protein powder without added artificial ingredients. Just be mindful of any allergies to nuts or dairy.

Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 75 reviews

These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delightful and nutritious snack combining the creamy tang of cream cheese with the sweet, fruity flavor of freeze-dried strawberries. Packed with protein from vanilla powder and wholesome ingredients like oats and almond flour, they’re perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy dessert alternative. Easy to prepare with no baking required, these snack bites satisfy your sweet tooth while supporting your active lifestyle.

• Author: Stella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 protein balls 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Dry Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries (crushed into a fine powder)

Wet Ingredients

• 4 oz softened cream cheese (full-fat or reduced-fat)
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Ingredients

• Chia seeds (optional)
• Mini white chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Soften the cream cheese at room temperature for easier mixing. Crush the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a food processor, add the rolled oats, almond flour, vanilla protein powder, powdered strawberries, softened cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend until a dough forms that sticks together when pressed but is not overly sticky.
3. Adjust Consistency: Check the dough’s texture. If it feels too dry, add water or milk one teaspoon at a time, blending after each addition until the dough comes together. If too sticky, incorporate a bit more almond flour to balance the texture.
4. Form Balls: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough. Roll the portions between your palms to create balls roughly 1 inch in diameter. Optionally, fold in chia seeds or mini white chocolate chips before rolling for extra texture and flavor.
5. Chill to Set: Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up and enhance the flavors.
6. Store Properly: Transfer the chilled protein balls to an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months for longer storage.

Notes

• Freeze-dried strawberries can be found in specialty grocery stores or online and add concentrated strawberry flavor without moisture.
• You can substitute protein powder with your preferred flavor to customize taste.
• For a vegan version, replace honey with maple syrup and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
• If the mixture is too sticky after chilling, a light dusting of almond flour on hands can help with rolling.
• These protein balls make a great pre- or post-workout snack or a healthy dessert option.

Keywords: strawberry cheesecake protein balls, no-bake protein snacks, healthy protein balls, gluten-free protein snacks, easy protein bites, strawberry protein bites