Description
These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delicious and nutritious snack perfect for on-the-go energy. Combining the flavors of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and a hint of vanilla, these gluten-free protein balls are packed with wholesome ingredients like oats, nut butter, and protein powder. They are easy to make, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and include white chocolate chips for a delightful texture contrast. Ideal for a pre- or post-workout boost or a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups gluten-free oats (or oat flour)
- 1 cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 Tbsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp pink Himalayan sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 ½ cup nut butter (such as almond or peanut butter)
- ½ cup coconut oil (half melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins
- ¼ – ½ cup white chocolate chips
- ¼ – ½ cup freeze dried strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare Oats: Place the gluten-free oats in a food processor and blend until it reaches a flour-like consistency. This step ensures the protein balls have a smooth and consistent texture.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the vanilla protein powder, ground cinnamon, pink Himalayan sea salt, pure maple syrup, nut butter, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the food processor with the oat flour. Process until all ingredients are fully combined into a thick dough.
- Fold in Add-ins: Remove the dough from the processor and gently fold in the white chocolate chips and freeze-dried strawberries, evenly distributing these tasty bits throughout the mixture.
- Form Balls: Using a 1 tablespoon measuring spoon or cookie scooper, portion out the dough and roll each portion between your hands to form smooth balls.
- Chill and Serve: Place the protein balls on a lined tray or dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once set, they are ready to enjoy as a nutritious snack.
Notes
- You can substitute nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
- For a dairy-free option, ensure white chocolate chips are dairy-free or omit them.
- Store protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to your preference.
- Feel free to roll the protein balls in extra crushed freeze-dried strawberries or shredded coconut for a decorative finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 protein ball (approx. 25g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: protein balls, strawberry cheesecake, gluten-free snacks, healthy snacks, no-bake, vegan optional, energy bites