Introduction

Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls offer a delightful, guilt-free treat that combines the creamy taste of cheesecake with the fresh burst of strawberries. These no-bake, protein-packed bites are perfect for a quick snack or a healthy dessert, and they come together in just minutes.

A close-up of a pyramid stack of eight round dessert balls on a white plate with a light brown rim, placed on a white marbled surface. Each ball has a creamy off-white base color mixed with patches of bright red and sprinkled with brown crumbs and tiny green bits, giving a textured, speckled look. Small clusters of bright red crumbs are scattered on top of each ball, adding contrast. The dessert balls have a moist, slightly glossy surface with some areas showing smooth white cream drizzled lightly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: Extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries for coating

Instructions

Step 1: If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse the rolled oats in a food processor for a few seconds to partially grind them. This step is optional but helps reduce chewiness.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats (or ground oats), vanilla protein powder, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and a pinch of salt until evenly combined.
Step 3: Add the softened cream cheese, honey (or maple syrup), almond milk, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
Step 4: Mix everything thoroughly using a spoon or your hands until a sticky dough forms. Adjust the consistency by adding more almond milk if too dry, or extra oats/protein powder if too wet.
Step 5: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll each into a smooth ball between your palms.
Step 6: If desired, roll each protein ball in extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries or an alternative coating like shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or cocoa powder for added flavor and texture.
Step 7: Place the protein balls on a parchment-lined tray or plate, then chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up and meld flavors.
Step 8: Transfer the chilled protein balls to an airtight container for storage.

Tips & Variations

Soften cream cheese by leaving it at room temperature for 30 minutes before starting to ensure smooth mixing.
For a different flavor, try swapping vanilla protein powder with chocolate or berry-flavored varieties.
If you don’t have freeze-dried strawberries for coating, use shredded coconut, chopped nuts, or a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Partial grinding of oats helps achieve a less chewy, finer texture, but it’s optional based on your preference.

Storage

Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to one month. To enjoy, thaw frozen protein balls in the refrigerator for a few hours before eating.

How to Serve

The image shows five round, small desserts stacked together on a white plate with a white marbled surface. Each dessert has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown crust; the middle layer is a creamy white filling with red berry pieces inside, giving it a speckled look; the top layer is covered with crushed red fruit bits and garnished with tiny green mint leaves. The texture looks smooth and creamy with crunchy bits on the outside. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Fresh strawberries contain moisture, which can change the texture of the protein balls. Freeze-dried strawberries help keep the mixture dry and firm, but you could try finely chopping fresh strawberries and reducing some liquid ingredients to compensate.

Are these protein balls suitable for vegans?

Yes, by using plant-based vanilla protein powder, vegan cream cheese, and maple syrup instead of honey, you can make these protein balls vegan-friendly.