Healthy Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe

Introduction

These Healthy Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delicious and convenient snack that combines the tangy sweetness of strawberries with creamy cheesecake flavor. Perfect for a quick energy boost or a guilt-free treat, they’re easy to make and packed with protein.

Ingredients

• 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries (not fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (light or regular)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 2 tbsp white chocolate chips or crushed graham crackers (for garnish or extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries until they are finely crushed. Add the rolled oats, protein powder, almond flour, and a pinch of salt, then blend until the mixture resembles a fine meal.
2. Step 2: Add the cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Blend until a dough forms. If the mixture feels too dry, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of water or milk to reach the right consistency.
3. Step 3: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough at a time and roll into balls. For extra flavor, you can roll the balls in crushed graham crackers or drizzle with melted white chocolate chips.
4. Step 4: Place the protein balls in the refrigerator and chill for at least 20 to 30 minutes to allow them to firm up before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use almond or peanut butter instead of cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Freeze-dried strawberries give the best flavor and texture—avoid fresh or frozen berries here.
• Roll balls in finely chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
• Adjust sweetness by using more or less honey or maple syrup according to taste.

Storage

Store these protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge before enjoying. If firm after refrigeration, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly 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 moisture which will affect the texture and consistency of the dough, making it too wet. Freeze-dried strawberries are recommended as they provide concentrated flavor without adding extra moisture.

What type of protein powder works best?

Vanilla-flavored whey or plant-based protein powders both work well. Choose your favorite based on dietary preferences and availability. Make sure the powder is unflavored or vanilla to complement the cheesecake flavor.

Healthy Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe

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4.5 from 61 reviews

These Healthy Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack combining the flavors of freeze-dried strawberries, creamy cheesecake, and protein-packed ingredients. Perfect for a quick energy boost or post-workout treat, they blend wholesome oats, almond flour, and vanilla protein powder with a hint of sweetness and tangy cream cheese, all formed into easy-to-eat no-bake balls.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 protein balls 1x
• Category: Snack
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries (not fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (light or regular)
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes

• 2 tbsp white chocolate chips or crushed graham crackers (for garnish or extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Blend dry ingredients: In a food processor, pulse the freeze-dried strawberries until they become finely crushed powder. Add the rolled oats, vanilla protein powder, almond flour, and a pinch of salt to the processor. Blend all the dry ingredients together until a fine, uniform meal forms.
2. Add wet ingredients: Add the cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the food processor. Blend the mixture until it forms a cohesive dough. If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add 1 to 2 teaspoons of water or milk gradually and blend again until you have a pliable dough.
3. Shape: Scoop approximately one tablespoon of the dough and roll it between your hands to form a smooth ball. Optionally, roll the balls in crushed graham crackers or drizzle them with melted white chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
4. Chill: Place the protein balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate them for at least 20 to 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the balls firm up and hold their shape, making them easier to handle and enjoy.

Notes

• Freeze-dried strawberries are essential to provide a concentrated flavor and avoid adding moisture, which can affect texture.
• You can substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
• If dairy-free, choose plant-based cream cheese and protein powder.
• Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• These protein balls make an excellent grab-and-go snack or post-workout fuel.
• Adjust sweetness to taste by altering honey or maple syrup quantity.

Keywords: strawberry protein balls, healthy snacks, no-bake protein balls, cheesecake protein balls, easy protein snacks, post-workout snack