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Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe (6g Protein Each!)

Creamy, no-bake protein balls that taste just like strawberry cheesecake! These bite-sized snacks pack 6g of protein each and come together in just 15 minutes. Perfect for meal prep, post-workout fuel, or when you need something sweet that won't derail your day.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 16 balls
Calories 95 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup raw cashews 140g
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened (113g)
  • cup vanilla protein powder 30g
  • cup freeze-dried strawberries 10g
  • 2-3 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons crushed freeze-dried strawberries optional, for coating
  • 3 tablespoons graham cracker crumbs optional, for coating

Instructions
 

  • Remove cream cheese from refrigerator 30 minutes before starting. Cut into chunks once softened.
  • Crush freeze-dried strawberries slightly in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin to break up any large pieces.
  • Add cashews to food processor and pulse 10-12 times until they resemble coarse sand. Scrape down sides halfway through. Stop before they become cashew butter.
  • Add freeze-dried strawberries to the food processor and pulse 5-6 times until broken down and distributed throughout the cashew mixture.
  • Add cream cheese chunks, protein powder, and 2 tablespoons honey. Process continuously for 20-30 seconds, stopping once to scrape down sides. The mixture should form a thick, sticky dough that holds together when pressed. If too crumbly, add the remaining tablespoon of honey and pulse again.
  • Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness if needed, adding honey ½ tablespoon at a time. The dough should be noticeably sweet, as flavors will mellow when chilled.
  • Scoop 1½ tablespoons of dough and roll between your palms into ping-pong-sized balls. Wet your hands with cold water if the mixture is sticky. You should get 14-16 balls total.
  • If using coating, roll each ball in crushed strawberries or graham cracker crumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Place on a parchment-lined plate.
  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up before eating. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Important Tips:
  • Do not use regular dried strawberries or fresh strawberries, only freeze-dried work for this recipe
  • Make sure cream cheese is fully softened or you'll have lumps in the final mixture
  • Wetting your hands with cold water makes rolling much easier
  • For better portion control, make 20-24 smaller balls (about 1 tablespoon each)
  • If mixture is too wet, add protein powder 1 tablespoon at a time instead of more nuts
Serving Suggestions:
  • Pack in lunch boxes with an ice pack for an afternoon snack
  • Enjoy post-workout with a protein shake
  • Serve as a healthier dessert option at gatherings
  • Pair with fresh berries and a cup of coffee or tea
Keyword healthy snacks, no bake protein balls, protein balls