Indulge in a Slice of Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake

If you’re craving a creamy and indulgent dessert but want to stay within your healthy eating goals, the Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is your go-to treat. Combining the smooth texture of cheesecake with the sweet and tangy flavors of strawberries, and topped with a crunchy, slightly sweet crumble, this dessert is both satisfying and guilt-free. With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy all the indulgence without compromising on flavor or points.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or whole wheat alternative)
• 2 tablespoons light butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar substitute (like Stevia or Monk Fruit)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz fat-free cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar substitute
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, pureed
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

For the Strawberry Crunch Topping:

• 1/2 cup freeze-dried strawberries
• 1/4 cup oats
• 2 tablespoons light butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon sugar substitute

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar substitute until well combined.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 8 minutes until slightly golden, then remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and Greek yogurt together until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sugar substitute, eggs, vanilla extract, and cornstarch, mixing until combined.
3. Stir in the pureed strawberries and lemon juice, blending well.
4. Pour the cheesecake batter over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 10 minutes. This helps to prevent cracking.
3. After the 10 minutes, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.

Make the Strawberry Crunch Topping

1. While the cheesecake is chilling, prepare the topping by pulsing the freeze-dried strawberries in a food processor until they are finely ground.
2. In a small bowl, combine the ground strawberries with the oats, melted butter, and sugar substitute. Stir until well mixed.
3. Spread the topping over the chilled cheesecake just before serving.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• WW Points: ~5-6 (varies by plan and specific ingredients)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Fresh Strawberry Flavor: The puree and freeze-dried strawberries add natural sweetness and a burst of fresh flavor in every bite.
2. Guilt-Free Indulgence: This cheesecake allows you to enjoy a creamy dessert with minimal points.
3. Crunchy Topping: The strawberry crunch topping adds texture and sweetness that perfectly complements the smooth cheesecake.
4. Perfect for All Occasions: Whether you’re celebrating or simply treating yourself, this cheesecake is perfect for any occasion.

Tips for Success

• Chill Thoroughly: Allow the cheesecake to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to ensure it sets properly.
• Customize the Topping: You can use other freeze-dried fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair the cheesecake with a light, refreshing beverage like iced tea or sparkling water.
• Make Ahead: This cheesecake can be made a day in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy celebrations.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Strawberries: Garnish each slice with fresh strawberry slices for extra color and flavor.
• Whipped Cream: Add a small dollop of fat-free whipped cream for an extra indulgence with minimal points.
• Berry Compote: For an even more indulgent twist, drizzle with a homemade berry compote made from fresh fruit and a touch of sweetener.

The Berrylicious Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake is an irresistible dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the freshness of strawberries, topped with a crunchy, sweet finish. It’s a perfect, guilt-free treat that doesn’t compromise on flavor, making it an excellent option for anyone following Weight Watchers. Whether for a family gathering, a party, or a simple indulgence after a meal, this cheesecake will satisfy your cravings without the extra calories.