Description
These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a tasty and healthy snack, ideal for post-workout recovery or a quick energy boost. With a delightful strawberry flavor and packed with protein, they are simple to make and perfect for on-the-go enjoyment!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and vanilla protein powder. Stir until well mixed.
- Add the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) to the bowl. Warm the almond butter slightly in the microwave for about 10 seconds for easier mixing.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the bowl. Ensure it’s at room temperature for smooth blending; microwave for 10-15 seconds if needed.
- Pour in the vanilla extract and sprinkle the salt over the mixture. Mix everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon until well combined and no dry ingredients are visible. The mixture should be thick and sticky.
- Gently fold in the crushed freeze-dried strawberries. If using fresh strawberries, be aware they will add moisture to the mixture.
- If desired, fold in the mini chocolate chips for added sweetness and crunch.
- Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness with more honey or maple syrup if needed.
- Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper.
- Using your hands, take about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, or use a cookie scoop for uniformity.
- Place the rolled balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each ball as they may expand.
- Continue rolling until all the mixture is shaped into balls, yielding about 15-20 protein balls.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to help the balls hold their shape. Alternatively, freeze for about 15 minutes, monitoring to prevent them from freezing solid.
- Once chilled, transfer the protein balls to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for longer shelf life.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding other mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or different flavored protein powders.
- If you prefer a vegan option, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes