Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls a no-bake, high-protein snack that brings the creamy, fruity flavor of strawberry cheesecake into a bite-sized, healthy treat. These strawberry cheesecake protein balls are easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for when I need a sweet but nourishing snack. With simple ingredients and no oven required, they’re a favorite for meal prep or post-workout bites.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how these protein balls give me the taste of dessert while keeping things clean and nutritious. They come together in minutes, don’t require baking, and can easily be adjusted to fit my dietary needs. The freeze-dried strawberries pack in bold flavor, while cream cheese brings that classic cheesecake richness. They’re also gluten-free and can be made dairy-free, making them super versatile.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries
1 cup almond flour
1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
2 tablespoons coconut flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup cream cheese (regular or dairy-free)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk of choice (as needed)
Directions
I start by blending the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a blender or food processor.
In a mixing bowl, I combine the almond flour, strawberry powder, protein powder, coconut flour, and salt.
Then, I add the maple syrup, cream cheese, and vanilla extract, mixing everything into a thick dough.
If the dough feels a bit dry, I stir in 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until it comes together.
I roll the dough into small bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
Finally, I refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to firm them up before enjoying.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 12 protein balls.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories per ball: 85 kcal
Variations
I like switching things up with these variations:
Chocolate Twist: Add mini dark chocolate chips or use chocolate protein powder for a richer flavor.
Nut-Free Version: Swap almond flour for oat flour if I’m avoiding nuts.
Extra Protein Boost: I sometimes add chia seeds or hemp seeds to the mix.
Tart Flavor: Mix in a few chopped dried cranberries or extra strawberry powder for more zing.
Vegan Option: I use dairy-free cream cheese and maple syrup to keep it vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
I store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When I want to keep them longer, I freeze them in a sealed container for up to 2 months. I just let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before eating—no reheating needed.
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FAQs
What type of protein powder works best for this recipe?
I prefer using a vanilla or unflavored whey or plant-based protein powder. Both work well, but I make sure it blends easily without a chalky texture.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?
I don’t recommend fresh strawberries because they add too much moisture. Freeze-dried strawberries give a concentrated flavor and keep the dough firm.
Are these protein balls keto-friendly?
They can be. I just use a keto-friendly sweetener like stevia or monk fruit and ensure the protein powder and cream cheese are low in carbs.
Can I double the recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely. I often double or triple the batch, especially for meal prep or snacks throughout the week.
Can kids eat these protein balls?
Yes, they’re kid-friendly and naturally sweetened. I just make sure the protein powder I use is appropriate for children.
Conclusion
These strawberry cheesecake protein balls have become one of my go-to healthy snacks. They’re quick to make, easy to store, and taste like a dessert without the guilt. Whether I need a post-workout bite, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a treat to curb cravings, these no-bake bites never disappoint.
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Delicious Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls
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- Author: Isabella
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 protein balls
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A no-bake, high-protein snack that captures the creamy, fruity essence of strawberry cheesecake in a healthy, bite-sized treat. These protein balls are quick to make, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep or post-workout snacking.
Ingredients
1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries
1 cup almond flour
1/4 cup vanilla or unflavored protein powder
2 tablespoons coconut flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup cream cheese (regular or dairy-free)
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1–2 tablespoons milk of choice (as needed)
Instructions
- Blend the freeze-dried strawberries into a fine powder using a blender or food processor.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, strawberry powder, protein powder, coconut flour, and salt.
- Add the maple syrup, cream cheese, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients and mix until a thick dough forms.
- If the dough is too dry, add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until it comes together.
- Roll the dough into small bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Refrigerate the balls for at least 30 minutes to firm them up before serving.
Notes
Add mini chocolate chips or use chocolate protein powder for a chocolate twist.
Swap almond flour with oat flour for a nut-free version.
Boost protein by adding chia or hemp seeds.
For a tarter flavor, add chopped dried cranberries or extra strawberry powder.
Use dairy-free cream cheese and maple syrup for a vegan option.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 protein ball
- Calories: 85
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 45mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg