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Cheesecake Protein Balls

Cheesecake Protein Balls
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These Cheesecake Protein Balls are a quick, convenient, and nutritious snack combining creamy cheesecake flavor with a protein-packed boost. Perfect for on-the-go energy, they work well as a healthier dessert alternative or post-workout treat, and can be customized to suit various dietary needs including vegan and gluten-free options.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 4 oz cream cheese or vegan substitute, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup protein powder (whey or plant-based)
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats or almond flour
  • 2–3 tablespoons natural sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or stevia)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Flavor Enhancers

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Mix-ins (optional)

  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
  • 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons freeze-dried berries (raspberries or blueberries)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather and measure all ingredients accurately. Soften the cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing, and have your protein powder and oats or almond flour ready.
  2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, blend the cream cheese with your chosen sweetener and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the essential cheesecake flavor foundation.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Incorporate the protein powder, rolled oats or almond flour, and any optional spices like lemon zest or cinnamon. Stir thoroughly until a dough forms that sticks together but is not overly wet.
  4. Fold in Mix-ins: Gently fold in your chosen nuts, chocolate chips, or freeze-dried berries to evenly distribute flavor and texture throughout the mixture.
  5. Roll into Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls. If the dough is sticky, refrigerate for 10 minutes to firm up before shaping.
  6. Chill and Set: Place the formed protein balls on a lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up and allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Choose a flavor-neutral or complementary protein powder to avoid overpowering the cheesecake taste.
  • Adjust sweetness gradually, starting with less sweetener and adding more to taste.
  • The dough should be sticky but moldable — if too wet, add more oats or almond flour.
  • Chill the mixture before rolling to prevent sticking and to firm up the dough.
  • Roll the balls in crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or cocoa powder for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesecake protein balls, healthy snacks, protein snacks, no-bake dessert, gluten-free snack, vegan protein balls

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/cheesecake-protein-balls/