No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls

No-bake strawberry cheesecake protein balls are the perfect mix of sweet, creamy, and energizing—all in a bite-sized snack. They taste like dessert, but they’re made with wholesome ingredients that fuel me throughout the day. I love keeping a batch of these chilled in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go treat that satisfies my sweet tooth and gives me a boost of protein.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes only a few minutes to make, with no baking or complicated steps. The flavor is just like strawberry cheesecake—rich, tangy, and fruity—but without all the sugar or effort. They’re perfect for post-workout fuel, afternoon snacks, or even a light breakfast when I’m in a rush. Plus, I can easily customize them depending on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rolled oats

• Vanilla or strawberry protein powder

• Cream cheese (regular or light)

• Freeze-dried strawberries (crushed into powder)

• Almond flour or coconut flour

• Honey or maple syrup

• Vanilla extract

• A pinch of salt

• Optional: white chocolate chips or Greek yogurt chips

Directions

1. In a large bowl, I mix together the oats, protein powder, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, and a pinch of salt.

2. I add the cream cheese, honey, vanilla extract, and stir until a thick dough forms.

3. If the mixture is too dry, I add a tiny splash of milk; if it’s too soft, I stir in more oats or almond flour.

4. I roll the dough into bite-sized balls using my hands.

5. I chill them in the fridge for at least 20 minutes so they firm up.

6. I store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer, ready to grab anytime.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12–14 protein balls. It takes me around 10 minutes to mix and roll them, plus 20 minutes to chill—ready in about 30 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I mix in mini white chocolate chips for a sweeter treat or swap the freeze-dried strawberries for freeze-dried raspberries. I’ve also used flavored cream cheese for a stronger cheesecake taste. When I want a nut-free version, I use oat flour instead of almond flour, and sunflower seed butter if I want extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

I keep these protein balls in the fridge for up to 5 days. They also freeze really well—I store them in a freezer-safe container and just thaw a few at a time. I don’t reheat them since they’re meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

I don’t recommend fresh strawberries because they make the mixture too wet. Freeze-dried strawberries give a strong flavor without adding moisture.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, I use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based protein powder to make a fully dairy-free version. It still tastes creamy and sweet.

What’s the best protein powder for this recipe?

I usually use vanilla protein powder, but strawberry works great too. A mild flavor blends best with the cream cheese and berries.

Can I skip the oats?

Yes, I’ve made these with just almond flour or coconut flour instead of oats. It creates a slightly softer texture, more like truffles.

Do I need a food processor?

Nope! I mix everything in a bowl with a spoon or spatula. Crushing the freeze-dried strawberries by hand or in a bag works just fine.

Conclusion

No-bake strawberry cheesecake protein balls are sweet, creamy, and packed with flavor—without the need for baking or loads of sugar. I love making them as a snack that feels like dessert but fuels me with clean ingredients. Whether I’m prepping for the week or just craving something quick and satisfying, these are always a hit in my kitchen.

No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls

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No-bake strawberry cheesecake protein balls are creamy, fruity, and energizing bite-sized snacks made with wholesome ingredients like oats, cream cheese, and freeze-dried strawberries. They taste like dessert but are packed with protein for a nutritious boost.

• Author: Lizaa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes (with chilling)
• Yield: 12–14 balls
• Category: Snack
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup vanilla or strawberry protein powder
• 1/4 cup cream cheese (regular or light)
• 1/4 cup crushed freeze-dried strawberries
• 1/4 cup almond flour or coconut flour
• 2–3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 2 tbsp white chocolate chips or yogurt chips
• Optional: 1–2 tbsp milk (if needed to adjust consistency)

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Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, protein powder, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, almond flour, and a pinch of salt.
2. Add cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until a thick dough forms.
3. If the mixture is too dry, add a splash of milk. If it’s too wet, add more oats or almond flour.
4. Fold in white chocolate chips or yogurt chips if using.
5. Roll the dough into 12–14 bite-sized balls.
6. Chill in the fridge for at least 20 minutes until firm.
7. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

• Use oat flour instead of almond flour for a nut-free version.
• For a dairy-free option, use plant-based cream cheese and protein powder.
• Don’t use fresh strawberries—they make the mixture too wet.
• Mix by hand—no food processor needed.
• Freeze-dried raspberries can be used instead of strawberries for a tart variation.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 ball
• Calories: 110
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 5mg