Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy: The Ultimate Sweet and Creamy Indulgence

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that satisfies your sweet cravings while keeping you on track with your Weight Watchers goals, look no further than this Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy. Combining the creamy richness of cheesecake with the fruity, refreshing flavors of banana and strawberry, this dessert is not only delicious but also lighter and healthier than traditional cheesecake. It’s the perfect treat for anyone looking for a guilt-free indulgence!

Let’s dive into how to make this dreamy dessert!

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 1 package (8 oz) fat-free cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt (for creaminess and added protein)
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar or a sugar substitute (like Stevia or Monk Fruit)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 egg (or 1/4 cup egg substitute for a lower calorie option)
• 1/4 cup sugar-free vanilla pudding mix (instant)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (for a smoother texture)
• Pinch of salt

For the Banana-Strawberry Layer:

• 2 medium bananas, sliced
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1-2 tbsp honey (optional, based on sweetness preference)
• 1 tsp lemon juice (to enhance flavor and prevent bananas from browning)

For the Crust:

• 1/2 cup graham cracker crumbs (or whole wheat graham cracker crumbs for added fiber)
• 2 tbsp light butter, melted
• 1 tbsp honey (for sweetness)
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)

For the Topping:

• Fat-free whipped topping or light whipped cream (for garnish)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Additional strawberries or banana slices (optional, for decoration)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted light butter, honey, and cinnamon. Mix until the crumbs are well-coated and moist.
3. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or pie dish, creating an even layer.
4. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the fat-free cream cheese, non-fat Greek yogurt, light brown sugar (or sugar substitute), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the egg (or egg substitute) and beat until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in the sugar-free vanilla pudding mix, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the filling is smooth and thick.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Bake the cheesecake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and only slightly jiggly when shaken. The edges should be golden brown.
6. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to develop.

3. Prepare the Banana-Strawberry Layer:

1. While the cheesecake is chilling, combine the sliced bananas and strawberries in a small bowl.
2. Drizzle with honey (if desired) and lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Stir gently to coat the fruit.
3. Let the fruit sit for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the juices to release and the flavors to meld.

4. Assemble the Cheesecake Fantasy:

1. Once the cheesecake has set in the fridge, top it with the banana and strawberry mixture. Spread the fruit evenly over the cheesecake layer, allowing the juices to seep into the filling.
2. Garnish with a dollop of fat-free whipped topping or light whipped cream on top.
3. If desired, add a few fresh mint leaves or additional banana slices and strawberries for extra decoration and freshness.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

1. Slice the cheesecake into 12 servings, and enjoy this creamy, fruity, and indulgent dessert without the guilt!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Makes 12 Servings)

• Calories: 170
• WW Points: 5 points (per serving)
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 5g
• Fiber: 2g

Why You’ll Love This Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy:

1. Lightened-Up Indulgence: The use of fat-free cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and sugar-free pudding mix reduces the calories and fat, making it a healthier choice without compromising on flavor.
2. Fresh & Fruity: The combination of ripe bananas and strawberries adds a refreshing fruity twist that balances the richness of the cheesecake.
3. Perfect Texture: The smooth and creamy cheesecake filling pairs perfectly with the crisp crust and the juicy fruit topping for a delightful dessert experience.
4. Guilt-Free: With only 5 WW points per slice, you can enjoy this cheesecake without guilt, making it a great option for Weight Watchers members.
5. Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat whenever you want.

Tips for Success:

• Chill for Best Results: Allow the cheesecake to chill for at least a few hours (or overnight) for the best texture and flavor. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together.
• Use Fresh Fruit: Fresh bananas and strawberries are key to achieving the perfect fruity topping. If fresh strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.
• Customize the Crust: If you prefer a lower-carb option, try using almond flour instead of graham cracker crumbs.
• Add a Layer of Nutty Crunch: For extra texture, consider adding crushed nuts (like walnuts or almonds) to the crust or topping.

Variations:

• Vegan Version: Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut yogurt to make the cheesecake dairy-free. For the egg substitute, you can use a flaxseed mixture.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a drizzle of sugar-free chocolate syrup on top or mix some cocoa powder into the cheesecake filling for a chocolate version of this fruity fantasy.
• Berry Delight: Instead of just bananas and strawberries, you can mix in other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a colorful and vibrant topping.

Pairings:

This Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy pairs wonderfully with:

• A cup of herbal tea or iced coffee for a refreshing dessert pairing.
• A light salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal before indulging in dessert.
• A glass of sparkling water with a lemon wedge to keep things light and refreshing.

This Banana-Strawberry Cheesecake Fantasy is a perfect example of how you can enjoy indulgent, rich desserts without straying from your healthy eating plan. With the creamy cheesecake layer, the sweetness of fresh fruit, and the crunchy graham cracker crust, it’s a dessert that will delight your taste buds and keep you on track with your goals. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a weeknight treat, this cheesecake will leave you feeling satisfied and guilt-free.