Lemon Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe
Introduction
These Lemon Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delightful no-bake treat packed with zesty lemon flavor and creamy cheesecake goodness. Perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout boost, they combine protein and citrus in a bite-sized form.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (about 2 oz)
- 2 tablespoons lemon zest
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the vanilla protein powder, coconut flour, and lemon zest until well combined.
- Step 2: Add the cream cheese and lemon juice to the dry mixture.
- Step 3: Knead the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients form a cohesive dough. If the dough is too soft, add more coconut flour a little at a time. If it feels too thick, add a teaspoon or more of yogurt to soften it.
- Step 4: Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a tray. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow them to set.
- Step 5 (optional): Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave using 20-second bursts, stirring between each until smooth. Dip the protein balls into the melted chocolate, then place them on clean parchment paper. Sprinkle leftover lemon zest on top before the chocolate sets.
Tips & Variations
- Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a lighter texture and added protein.
- Substitute white chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer taste.
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts or seeds to the dough.
- If you prefer a sweeter bite, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the mixture.
Storage
Store the protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to one month—just thaw them in the fridge before serving. If coated with chocolate, keep refrigerated to prevent melting, and let come to room temperature briefly before enjoying for the best texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of protein powder?
Yes, any vanilla or unflavored protein powder should work fine. Just be mindful that different protein powders absorb liquid differently, so you may need to adjust the amount of coconut flour or yogurt accordingly.
Are these protein balls suitable for a dairy-free diet?
You can make them dairy-free by using a plant-based cream cheese alternative and dairy-free white chocolate chips or skipping the chocolate coating altogether.
PrintLemon Cheesecake Protein Balls Recipe
These Lemon Cheesecake Protein Balls are a delightful and nutritious snack, combining tangy lemon zest and juice with creamy cheesecake flavor and a boost of vanilla protein powder. Coated optionally in rich white chocolate and garnished with lemon zest, they offer a perfect balance of sweet and zesty flavors in a convenient bite-sized treat ideal for on-the-go energy or a healthy dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 protein balls 1x
- Category: Snacks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup vanilla protein powder
- 1/4 cup coconut flour
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (about 2 oz)
- 2 Tbsp lemon zest
- 1 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
Optional Coating
- 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
- Combine dry ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the vanilla protein powder, coconut flour, and lemon zest until evenly distributed.
- Add wet ingredients: Add the cream cheese and lemon juice to the dry mixture.
- Knead mixture: Using your hands or a spatula, knead the mixture until all ingredients form a consistent dough. If the dough is too soft, add additional coconut flour a teaspoon at a time. If too thick, add a teaspoon or more of yogurt to loosen.
- Shape balls: Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls, ensuring compactness.
- Chill to set: Place the balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow them to firm up.
- Optional chocolate coating: Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between until smooth. Dip each protein ball into the melted chocolate, then place on parchment paper to set. Garnish with leftover lemon zest while the chocolate is still wet.
Notes
- Adjust coconut flour or yogurt to achieve ideal dough consistency for rolling.
- Use full-fat cream cheese or your preferred variant to influence texture and flavor.
- Refrigerate protein balls for longer shelf life, up to 3 days.
- White chocolate coating is optional but adds a delicious contrast in flavor and texture.
- Perfect as a pre- or post-workout snack packed with protein and flavor.
Keywords: lemon cheesecake protein balls, no-bake protein snack, healthy protein balls, lemon protein bites, white chocolate protein balls
