Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe
Delight in these Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls, a nutritious and delicious snack combining creamy cheesecake flavor with the freshness of strawberries. Packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, these no-bake, easy-to-make bites are perfect for a quick energy boost or a tasty treat on the go.
- 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: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Coating
- Extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries for coating
Instructions
- Prepare the Oats: For a smoother texture, pulse the rolled oats in a food processor for a few seconds until partially ground. This step is optional but helps to create a more cohesive dough.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the rolled oats (or ground oats), vanilla protein powder, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and a pinch of salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure all dry components are evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the softened cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, unsweetened almond milk, and vanilla extract to the dry mix. These provide moisture and sweetness to the mixture.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to blend all ingredients until a slightly sticky dough forms. Adjust consistency if needed by adding almond milk one teaspoon at a time if too dry, or rolled oats/protein powder one tablespoon at a time if too wet.
- Roll into Balls: Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough, then roll each portion smoothly between your palms to form balls.
- Coat (Optional): If desired, roll each protein ball in extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries placed in a shallow dish, pressing gently so they adhere for an added burst of flavor and texture.
- Chill: Arrange the protein balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and hold their shape.
- Store: Transfer the chilled protein balls to an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to one week or freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Notes
- Pulse oats for a smoother texture; skip this step for more chewiness.
- Use plant-based or whey protein powder to suit dietary preferences.
- Maple syrup or honey can be substituted depending on taste and dietary needs.
- Adjust milk quantity to achieve desired dough consistency.
- Freeze-dried strawberries can be replaced with freeze-dried raspberries or other berries for a different flavor.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Keywords: strawberry cheesecake protein balls, no-bake protein balls, healthy snacks, high protein snacks, vegetarian snacks, easy no-bake recipe, freeze-dried strawberries
