Delicious No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls

These no-bake strawberry cheesecake protein balls are a simple, feel-good treat with a creamy centre and a fresh, fruity finish. They have a soft, slightly fudgy texture with the gentle tang of cream cheese and the sweetness of real strawberries. This is an easy recipe that suits beginners and busy days alike, with no oven needed and very little hands-on time. From start to finish, they are ready in about 20 minutes plus chilling.

Ingredients

For the protein ball mixture

• 120 g rolled oats
• 100 g vanilla or plain protein powder
• 80 g cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
• 40 g freeze-dried strawberries, finely crushed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

For coating (optional)

• 2 tbsp crushed freeze-dried strawberries
• 2 tbsp desiccated coconut

How to Make Delicious No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls

Prepare the workspace

Line a baking tray with baking parchment and set it aside. Make sure the cream cheese is soft so it blends easily.

Mix the dry ingredients

Place the rolled oats, protein powder, crushed freeze-dried strawberries and salt into a large bowl. Stir well so everything is evenly combined.

Add the wet ingredients

Add the cream cheese, honey or maple syrup, Greek yogurt and vanilla extract. Mix with a spoon or spatula until a thick, sticky dough forms. If the mixture feels too dry, add a teaspoon of yogurt at a time.

Shape the protein balls

Scoop out small portions and roll them between your palms to form neat balls. Aim for walnut-sized pieces so they are easy to eat.

Coat and chill

Roll the balls in crushed strawberries, desiccated coconut, or leave them plain. Place them on the lined tray and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes until firm.

Tips for the Best Results

Why is my mixture too dry or crumbly?

Protein powders vary a lot. Add a little more yogurt or a splash of milk until the mixture holds together easily.

How do I make the flavour stronger?

Use freeze-dried strawberries rather than fresh ones. They give a more intense strawberry taste without adding moisture.

Can I make them sweeter?

Taste the mixture before rolling. Add a little extra honey or maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter finish.

How do I stop them sticking to my hands?

Lightly dampen your hands with water before rolling. This makes shaping much easier.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy straight from the fridge as a quick snack
• Serve with fresh strawberries on the side
• Add to lunchboxes or post-workout snacks
• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee

Storage

Room temperature

These are best kept chilled. At room temperature they will soften quickly and are not recommended for longer than a couple of hours.

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They firm up nicely and keep their shape.

Freezing

Freeze the protein balls in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge before serving.

Nutrition

• Calories: 95 kcal per ball
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Saturated fat: 2 g
• Sodium: 60 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and can vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use fresh strawberries instead of freeze-dried?

Fresh strawberries add too much moisture and can make the mixture soggy. Freeze-dried strawberries are best for flavour and texture.

Are these protein balls suitable for meal prep?

Yes, they are ideal for meal prep. Make a batch at the start of the week and keep them chilled for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Can I make them dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free cream cheese and yogurt alternatives. The texture may change slightly but they will still hold together.

What protein powder works best?

Vanilla whey or plant-based protein both work well. Avoid strongly flavoured powders that may overpower the strawberry cheesecake taste.