Description
These Guilt-Free Blueberry Cheesecake Protein Bites are a delicious, high-protein snack combining creamy cheesecake flavors with a vibrant blueberry swirl. Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, protein powder, and cream cheese, these bites are perfect for a nutritious treat, post-workout snack, or guilt-free dessert. They are easy to prepare, require chilling to set, and can be customized with optional coatings for extra crunch and flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned or quick-cooking, gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder (whey, casein, or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup freeze-dried blueberries, finely ground
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons powdered sugar (optional)
- Granular sweetener (erythritol or your choice, quantity to taste)
- Fresh lemon zest (quantity from one lemon)
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened (or vegan alternative)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (for coating or mixing)
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy), plus extra as needed
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Plain non-fat Greek yogurt (quantity approximately 1/4 cup based on mixing instructions, estimated)
- Honey or maple syrup (2 tablespoons, adjust to taste)
Blueberry Swirl
- 1/4 cup frozen blueberries (thawed and drained)
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon granular sweetener (optional, depending on blueberry sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightening flavor)
Optional Coatings
- Finely crushed graham cracker crumbs
- Unsweetened shredded coconut
- Fresh blueberries (for serving or garnish)
Instructions
- Softening the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature by removing it from the fridge at least 1-2 hours prior or microwaving it gently in short bursts. This step is essential for a smooth, lump-free base.
- Creaming the Foundation: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and plain non-fat Greek yogurt. Beat using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth and light, scraping the bowl frequently to incorporate everything fully.
- Incorporating Sweetness and Flavor: Add your preferred granular sweetener (erythritol), vanilla extract, fresh lemon zest, and a pinch of salt into the cream cheese-yogurt mixture. Beat on medium-low speed until well combined. Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
- Adding the Protein Power: Gradually add vanilla protein powder in two or three batches, mixing gently on low speed after each addition until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix to avoid a tough texture. The mixture should become thick, pliable, and sticky.
- Preparing the Blueberries: In a small saucepan, combine frozen or fresh blueberries with 1 tablespoon water. Optionally, add 1 tablespoon sweetener if the berries are not sweet enough. This will create a vibrant fruit swirl component.
- Simmering to Perfection: Heat the blueberries over medium-low heat, bringing to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally, mash some berries for texture if desired, and cook for 5-7 minutes until syrupy and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice if using. Allow the blueberry mixture to cool completely.
- Chilling the Protein Base: Cover the cheesecake protein mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, enhancing texture and making it easier to handle.
- Forming the Bites: Once chilled, scoop out portions (about 1.5 tablespoons) and roll them into smooth balls. If mixture becomes sticky, chill again briefly.
- Adding the Blueberry Swirl: Flatten each ball slightly, spoon ¼ to ½ teaspoon of cooled blueberry swirl in the center, fold edges around, and re-roll into balls. Alternatively, fold the swirl gently through the base for a marbled effect without overmixing. Place completed bites on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- The Second Chill for Firmness: Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-3 hours to firm the bites fully, allowing flavors to meld and improving handling and texture.
- Optional Coatings for Extra Appeal: Roll chilled bites in crushed graham cracker crumbs or unsweetened shredded coconut for added texture and a cheesecake crust-like finish.
- Serving and Storing Your High Protein Snack: Serve chilled directly from the fridge. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days or freeze for 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before eating.
Notes
- Softening cream cheese properly is key to a smooth texture.
- Adjust sweetener to your taste preference; natural fruit sweetness may reduce need for added sugar.
- Careful not to overmix protein powder to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Chill times are important for firmness and texture development.
- Optional coatings add flavor and texture reminiscent of cheesecake crust but can be skipped for simplicity.
- These bites freeze well and make convenient grab-and-go snacks.
- Use gluten-free oats and protein powder if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
- Plant-based protein powder and vegan cream cheese make this recipe adaptable for vegan diets.
