Cheese Cheesecake: The Ultimate Comfort Dessert

Looking for a rich, creamy dessert that’s light on calories but still indulgent enough to satisfy your sweet tooth? This Cheese Cheesecake recipe is exactly what you need! Featuring a creamy cheesecake base with a hint of tangy cream cheese flavor, this low-calorie, Weight Watchers-friendly cheesecake is perfect for a guilt-free treat. With a simple crust and just the right amount of sweetness, it’s a dessert you can enjoy while staying on track with your healthy eating goals.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or use a low-calorie graham cracker alternative)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (lightened up version)
• 2 tbsp sugar substitute (e.g., Stevia or Monk Fruit)

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 16 oz reduced-fat cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup fat-free Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup sugar substitute
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup cornstarch (for smooth texture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar substitute. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon to pack it down tightly.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

2. Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the sugar substitute, eggs, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Beat until well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
3. Slowly add the cornstarch and continue to mix until smooth. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling and create a creamy, velvety texture.

3. Assemble the Cheesecake

1. Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
2. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles in the batter.

4. Bake the Cheesecake

1. Bake the cheesecake at 325°F (165°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
2. Once done, turn off the oven and allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour. This helps prevent cracking.
3. After the cheesecake has cooled, remove it from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow it to set completely.

5. Serve

1. Once chilled and set, run a knife around the edges of the cheesecake to loosen it from the pan before removing the springform ring.
2. Slice the cheesecake into 8 servings, garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of sugar-free caramel sauce if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings):

• Calories: 170
• WW Points: 4-5 points per slice
• Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 14g
• Protein: 7g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Lightened-Up Version: With reduced-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt, this cheesecake is much lower in calories than traditional recipes while still maintaining the rich, creamy texture you crave.
2. Low in Points: This dessert is Weight Watchers-approved, making it a great option for satisfying your sweet tooth without sacrificing your healthy eating goals.
3. Simple and Delicious: The combination of simple ingredients creates a perfectly balanced flavor, with the tanginess of the cream cheese and the sweetness of the sugar substitute.
4. Customizable Topping: Top with fresh berries, a dusting of cinnamon, or a sugar-free chocolate drizzle to add extra flavor and a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Pro Tips

• Prevent Cracking: Make sure not to over-bake the cheesecake, as this can cause cracks. The cheesecake should be slightly wobbly in the center when you take it out of the oven, but it will firm up as it cools.
• Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese for Extra Creaminess: If you’re not concerned with keeping the recipe low-fat, you can use full-fat cream cheese for an even richer texture.
• Make It Ahead: Cheesecake tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make this dessert the day before your event or gathering.
• Top with Fruit: Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries make a perfect topping. You can also drizzle some sugar-free caramel or chocolate sauce for added sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Standalone Dessert: Serve each slice on its own for a simple yet indulgent treat.
• With Fresh Fruit: Add a side of fresh fruit, such as berries or citrus slices, for a light and refreshing contrast to the creamy cheesecake.
• For a Special Occasion: Serve this cheesecake for birthdays, holidays, or any special event to impress guests while sticking to your WW plan.

This Cheese Cheesecake is a lighter take on a classic dessert, offering all the richness and creaminess of traditional cheesecake but with fewer calories and points. It’s perfect for those following Weight Watchers or anyone who wants to enjoy a delicious, satisfying treat without the guilt. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable toppings, this cheesecake is sure to become a staple in your healthy dessert repertoire.