Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe
These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delicious and healthy snack that combines a creamy cheesecake base with fresh strawberry flavor. They are easy to make and perfect for a quick protein boost, featuring a blend of almond flour, vanilla protein powder, and cream cheese for a rich, satisfying texture. Optional add-ins like white chocolate chips and graham cracker crumbs add extra indulgence and texture, making these no-bake protein balls ideal for on-the-go snacking or a nutritious treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 12 balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Scale
The Cheesecake Base
- 1 cup almond flour (or oat flour for nut-free)
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup fresh strawberries, mashed (or freeze-dried strawberries)
- 2 tablespoons cashew butter or almond butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins
- 2–3 tablespoons white chocolate chips
- Graham cracker crumbs for rolling
- Extra freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
- Lemon zest for extra tang
Instructions
- Mix the Dry Stuff: In a large bowl, combine almond flour, vanilla protein powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to prevent clumping when wet ingredients are added. If using fresh strawberries, mash them with a fork, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Add the Creamy Components: Add softened cream cheese, nut butter, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix vigorously until the mixture comes together into a thick, cookie-dough-like consistency, about one minute.
- Strawberry Time: Gently fold the mashed strawberries into the mixture, which will turn pale pink. If desired, fold in white chocolate chips at this stage. The dough may feel slightly wet, which is normal.
- Roll Into Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll between your palms to form balls. Use slightly damp hands or a bit of cooking spray if the mixture sticks. Optionally, roll the balls in crushed graham crackers, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, or shredded coconut for added flavor and appearance.
- Chill Out: Chill the protein balls in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up. They can be eaten immediately but taste best after chilling.
Notes
- Softening the cream cheese is key for easy mixing; leave at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds.
- Use oat flour instead of almond flour for a nut-free option.
- Fresh strawberries add moisture; freeze-dried strawberries provide intense flavor without extra liquid.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Rolling the balls in toppings enhances texture and presentation.
Keywords: Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls, no-bake protein balls, healthy snacks, almond flour snacks, high protein snacks, easy protein balls, gluten free snacks
