Cream Cheese Oreo Protein Balls Recipe
Delicious and easy-to-make Cream Cheese Oreo Protein Balls that combine the indulgent flavor of cookies and cream cheesecake with a serious protein boost. These no-bake, soft, and chewy bites are perfect as a snack, dessert, or post-workout treat, blending creamy softened cream cheese with crushed Oreos, protein powder, and optional mix-ins.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 protein balls 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
- 15–20 Oreo cookies, crushed (including the cream filling)
- 1 cup (30 g) vanilla or chocolate protein powder
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Mix-ins
- Mini chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts
- Shredded coconut
- Crush the Oreos: Place the Oreo cookies in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or pulse in a food processor until mostly fine crumbs form, leaving some small bits for texture.
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Bring the cream cheese to room temperature or microwave in 10-second bursts until soft and spreadable to avoid clumping or excessive runniness.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese and crushed Oreo crumbs until smooth and uniform. Gradually add protein powder, mixing after each addition. If mixture feels dry, add milk a tablespoon at a time until a pliable dough forms. Stir in vanilla extract, salt, and any optional mix-ins.
- Shape the Balls: Use about one tablespoon of mixture per ball, rolling between your palms to create smooth, round balls. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Chill: Refrigerate the shaped balls for at least one hour to firm up and develop texture. If in a hurry, freeze for 30 minutes instead.
- Optional Coating: For a bakery-style finish, roll each chilled ball in extra crushed Oreos, cocoa powder, or shredded coconut before serving.
Notes
- Use room-temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better texture.
- Aim for a soft, pliable dough with a playdough-like texture: soft but not sticky.
- Add more protein powder if the mixture is too wet, or a bit more milk if it feels dry.
- Store finished protein balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Enjoy these protein balls cold for the best chewy, fudgy bite.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based cream cheese, milk, and protein powder alternatives.
Keywords: protein balls, cream cheese, Oreo, no bake, snack, high protein, dessert, easy recipe, post-workout snack