Cranberry Orange Cheesecake: The Ultimate Dessert for Any Occasion

Treat yourself to the refreshing flavors of citrus and tart cranberries with this Cranberry Orange Cheesecake. This decadent dessert is made lighter by using low-fat ingredients and just the right balance of sweetness, making it perfect for your Weight Watchers plan. Whether for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight indulgence, this cheesecake will impress with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (low-fat or sugar-free options work great)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp sugar substitute (like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener)

For the Filling:

• 16 oz (2 cups) low-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup sugar substitute
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp sugar substitute
• 1/2 tsp orange zest

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar substitute. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool.

Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar substitute until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Beat until fully combined, being careful not to overmix.
3. Pour the filling over the prepared crust and smooth the top.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly jiggly.
2. Turn off the oven and crack the door open slightly. Let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
3. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Prepare the Cranberry Orange Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar substitute, and orange zest.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
3. Let the topping cool completely before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• WW Points: ~5 (varies by ingredients and plan)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Festive and Flavorful: The combination of creamy orange cheesecake and tart cranberry topping makes it perfect for the holidays.
2. Lighter Alternative: By using low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt, this dessert delivers indulgence without the guilt.
3. Easy to Make: Straightforward steps and simple ingredients make this recipe a breeze to prepare.
4. Impressive Presentation: The vibrant cranberry topping adds a beautiful pop of color, making it an eye-catching centerpiece.

Tips for Success

• Prevent Cracks: Avoid overmixing the batter and cool the cheesecake slowly after baking.
• Chill Time: Don’t skip the refrigeration step—it’s essential for achieving the perfect texture.
• Sweetener Choice: Use your favorite sugar substitute to match your taste preferences.
• Topping Options: For extra flair, garnish with fresh orange zest or a dollop of whipped topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Treat: Serve as a lighter dessert option for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Everyday Indulgence: Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy snack.
• Mini Cheesecakes: Divide the mixture into muffin tins for individual servings—great for portion control!

This Cranberry Orange Cheesecake offers a delightful blend of tart and sweet flavors in a creamy, satisfying dessert. It’s proof that you don’t have to give up your favorite treats while staying on track with your health goals. Elegant, delicious, and Weight Watchers-friendly, this cheesecake will quickly become a favorite on your dessert menu!