Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious way to satisfy your sweet tooth while sticking to your nutrition goals, these No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls are the perfect solution! With their rich almond butter base and bursts of fresh strawberries, they offer a delightful treat that’s healthy and indulgent at the same time. Best of all? They come together in just 15 minutes and require no baking! These little bites are great for a quick snack after a workout or a tasty pick-me-up during your busy day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped strawberries
- 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
- Pinch of salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (including refrigeration)
Yield: 12-15 protein balls
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and vanilla protein powder. Stir until well mixed.
- Add in the almond butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and the mixture starts to come together.
- Gently fold in the chopped strawberries and crushed graham crackers, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- With clean hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the formed protein balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced out.
- Refrigerate the protein balls for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up before enjoying!
Notes or Tips
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a touch of lemon zest to the mixture. You can also customize your protein balls by using other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries. If you find the mixture is too dry, add a little more almond butter or honey to reach your desired consistency.
Cooking Techniques
No baking is required for this recipe, which makes it exceptionally easy. Just a little mixing and rolling is all it takes! The key to great protein balls is to ensure the ingredients are well-combined, and refrigerating them allows the flavors to meld while helping them maintain their shape.
FAQ
Can I use nut butter other than almond butter?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute peanut butter or another nut or seed butter of your choice for a different flavor.
How should I store these protein balls?
Keep the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully, so you can make a large batch and save some for later!
Conclusion
These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Balls not only taste amazing but are also packed with nutrients to keep you fueled throughout the day. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a batch of these delightful snacks that will surely impress your friends and family. Enjoy them as a quick snack or a post-workout treat, and savor the delicious, wholesome goodness!