Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls
These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a sweet, bite-sized treat that tastes just like dessert while delivering a protein-packed boost. Made with freeze-dried strawberries and a creamy cheesecake-inspired base, they’re soft, slightly chewy, and bursting with fruity flavor. Perfect for snacking or meal prep, they’re an easy, feel-good option when cravings hit.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder
- Whey or plant-based both work. Vanilla complements the strawberry flavor best.
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- Full-fat gives the richest flavor but reduced-fat works too.
- ½ cup rolled oats finely blended
- Pulse oats into flour for a smoother texture. Almond flour can be substituted.
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries crushed
- Adds concentrated strawberry flavor without making the mixture wet.
- 2 –3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- Adjust to taste depending on sweetness preference.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
Optional Add-Ins
- White chocolate chips
- Chia seeds
- Lemon zest for extra cheesecake tang
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the protein powder, oat flour, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add honey (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Everything
- Add the cream cheese mixture to the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or clean hands to mix until a thick, cohesive dough forms. If it feels too dry, add 1 teaspoon of milk at a time.
Step 4: Chill Briefly
- Place the mixture in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes. This makes it easier to roll.
Step 5: Roll Into Balls
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of mixture and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined plate or container.
Step 6: Final Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to help them firm up fully.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for bold flavor without extra moisture.
- Vanilla or cheesecake-flavored protein powder works best.
- Adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup to taste.
- If mixture is sticky, chill 15–20 minutes before rolling.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess; full-fat gives richer flavor.
- Roll evenly for consistent portion sizes.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Can be frozen for longer storage and quick snacks.
🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 110 kcal,Carbohydrates: 10 g,
Fiber: 2 g,
Sugars: 6 g,
Protein: 8 g,
Fat: 5 g,
Saturated Fat: 2 g,
Cholesterol: 10 mg,
Sodium: 75 mg,
Potassium: 140 mg,
Calcium: 80 mg,
Iron: 0.8 mg