Description
These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for a quick energy boost. Combining the creamy texture of cream cheese with the sweet flavor of freeze-dried strawberries and vanilla protein powder, these no-bake protein balls are easy to make and ideal for on-the-go. They are naturally gluten free and packed with protein and healthy fats, making them a great post-workout treat or a wholesome snack anytime.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 scoops vanilla protein powder
- ¼ cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
Wet Ingredients
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 tbsp milk (as needed)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, stir together the rolled oats, almond flour, and vanilla protein powder until well blended and evenly mixed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the softened cream cheese, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture begins to come together.
- Adjust Consistency: If the mixture feels too dry and crumbly, add milk one tablespoon at a time, stirring after each addition, until the mixture reaches a moldable consistency that holds together easily without sticking excessively.
- Shape the Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into approximately 1-inch diameter balls. Press firmly as you shape them to ensure they hold their form and don’t crumble.
- Chill: Place the protein balls onto a parchment-lined plate or tray, spacing them evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up before serving.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- If freeze-dried strawberries are unavailable, you can finely chop fresh strawberries and slightly reduce the milk added, though texture may vary.
- Store protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Adjust sweetness by varying honey or maple syrup to taste.
