If you love cheesecake but need something portable, these Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are your new favorite snack. They deliver all the creamy sweetness of dessert with the convenience and nutrition of a grab-and-go protein bite.
Each one is a burst of strawberry flavor wrapped in soft, cheesecake-like richness—perfect for breakfast, post-workout, or late-night cravings.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Protein Balls
These protein balls taste like dessert but fuel like a meal—sweet, creamy, and satisfying.
- Packed with protein and healthy fats
- No baking, no mess—ready in minutes
- Naturally sweetened with honey or maple syrup
- Perfect for meal prep and snacking
- Tastes like cheesecake without the guilt
- Great for both kids and adults
Back when I worked long days on construction sites, I needed something easy, energizing, and homemade.
My wife inspired these protein balls after watching me grab too many gas-station snacks. Now, they’re a regular in our fridge—a sweet treat that keeps the whole family fueled.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple pantry staples come together to create a creamy, strawberry-infused protein snack.
Main Ingredients (Cheesecake Base)
- 1 cup almond flour (or oat flour for nut-free option)
- ½ cup vanilla protein powder (I like Orgain for its smooth texture)
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup fresh strawberries, mashed (or use freeze-dried for a stronger flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cashew butter or almond butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ons Or Substitutes
- 2–3 tablespoons white chocolate chips for a creamy crunch
- Graham cracker crumbs for rolling (mimics cheesecake crust)
- Crushed freeze-dried strawberries for tang
- Lemon zest for brightness
- Coconut flakes for a tropical twist
- Swap nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version
Step-By-Step Instructions
These come together in minutes and store beautifully—no oven required.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk almond flour, protein powder, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in softened cream cheese, nut butter, honey, vanilla, and mashed strawberries. (The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.)
- Adjust Texture: If too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or a little extra cream cheese; if too wet, sprinkle more almond flour.
- Add Mix-Ins: Fold in white chocolate chips or crushed strawberries if using.
- Shape Balls: Roll into 1-inch balls using your hands or a small scoop.
- Coat (Optional): Roll each ball in graham cracker crumbs or freeze-dried strawberry dust for a cheesecake finish.
- Chill: Place on a lined tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
Quick reminders:
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for smooth mixing.
- Don’t skip chilling—they firm up and taste creamier.
- Use a gentle hand when rolling—keeps them tender.
- Store extras in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
Expert Tips For Success
The best protein balls are all about balance—flavor, texture, and nutrition.
- Use fine almond flour for a smooth base.
- Measure protein powder carefully—too much dries the mix.
- Add extra mashed berries for color and moisture.
- Adjust sweetness based on your protein powder type.
- Chill before serving for the creamiest texture.
- Make a double batch—they disappear fast!
- Store in the freezer for quick, healthy snacking.
If you like these, you’ll also love my Deviled Strawberries—another no-bake fruity treat with a creamy twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls work for any time of day.
- Pre-workout or post-gym fuel
- Sweet mid-afternoon pick-me-up
- Healthy dessert alternative
- Paired with Raspberry Chia Pudding for a protein-packed breakfast
- Gifted in jars as a homemade treat
- Enjoyed with coffee or green tea for a balanced snack
They look amazing alongside Sweetened Condensed Milk Snowballs on a dessert platter.
Storing And Reheating
These protein balls stay fresh and flavorful for days—ideal for batch prep.
How To Store It
- Refrigerate up to 7 days in an airtight container
- Separate layers with parchment to avoid sticking
- Freeze up to 2 months for long-term storage
- Thaw in fridge overnight before enjoying
- Store uncoated if rolling in crumbs later
How To Reheat It
- No reheating needed—serve chilled or room temperature
- For softer texture, let sit 10 minutes before eating
- Avoid microwaving—cream cheese may melt
- Refresh by rolling in new coating before serving
- Add a drizzle of honey for gloss before serving
They hold their flavor beautifully, even after a week—sweet, creamy, and perfectly chewy.
Estimated Nutrition (per ball)
Calories: 145 | Carbs: 8g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 10g | Sugar: 5g | Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes—use vegan cream cheese and plant-based protein powder for a dairy-free version.
Can I skip the nut butter?
You can replace it with coconut butter or sunflower seed butter for binding.
How do I make them lower in carbs?
Use sugar-free syrup and low-carb protein powder to reduce sugar and carbs.
Final Thoughts
These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are the kind of snack that makes healthy eating feel joyful. Every bite gives you a taste of creamy cheesecake, sweet berries, and real satisfaction—without ever turning on the oven.
- Keep a batch chilled for quick snacks
- Adjust flavor with different berries or nut butters
- Share them—then make another batch because they go fast
For another high-protein favorite, try my Yogurt Cloud Cake next—it’s light, airy, and just as nourishing.
Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, protein powder, and salt.
- Add softened cream cheese, nut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and mashed strawberries. Stir until a thick, sticky dough forms.
- If too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or more cream cheese. If too wet, add extra almond flour.
- Fold in any mix-ins such as white chocolate chips or crushed strawberries if using.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls using hands or a small scoop.
- Optional: Roll each ball in graham cracker crumbs or freeze-dried strawberry powder for coating.
- Place protein balls on a tray and refrigerate for 30 minutes until set.
Nutrition
Notes
- Nut butter can be swapped for sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
- Vegan and dairy-free alternatives available for cream cheese and protein powder.
