Rich and Creamy Decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake

When you’re in the mood for a rich and indulgent dessert that doesn’t derail your health goals, look no further than the Decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake. This elegant dessert combines velvety chocolate with the tangy sweetness of fresh raspberries, all nestled in a lightened-up cheesecake that’s easy on the points but heavy on flavor.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

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

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 8 oz fat-free cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup sugar substitute
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries

For the Raspberry Topping:

• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 tablespoon sugar substitute
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
2. Combine the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar substitute in a bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the reduced-fat cream cheese, fat-free cream cheese, and Greek yogurt until smooth.
2. Add the sugar substitute, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
3. Sift in the unsweetened cocoa powder and cornstarch, then blend until the mixture is creamy and well incorporated.
4. Gently fold in the fresh raspberries to distribute evenly.
5. Pour the filling over the crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Bake the Cheesecake

1. Place the springform pan in a larger roasting pan and fill the roasting pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan. This water bath will help the cheesecake bake evenly and prevent cracking.
2. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
3. Turn off the oven, leave the cheesecake inside with the door ajar for 10 minutes, then remove and cool to room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Make the Raspberry Topping

1. In a small saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar substitute, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the raspberries break down and release their juices.
2. Stir in the cornstarch-water mixture and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.
3. Let the topping cool completely before spreading it over the chilled cheesecake.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~180
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• WW Points: ~6-7 (varies by specific ingredients and plan)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Decadent and Satisfying: The combination of rich chocolate and fresh raspberries creates a flavor that’s indulgent yet refreshing.
2. Health-Conscious: With lighter ingredients like fat-free cream cheese and sugar substitutes, you can enjoy a guilt-free dessert.
3. Elegant Presentation: The vibrant raspberry topping makes this cheesecake look as stunning as it tastes.

Tips for Success

• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This ensures a smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
• Don’t Skip the Water Bath: It helps the cheesecake bake evenly and prevents cracks.
• Customize the Topping: If raspberries aren’t your favorite, swap them for strawberries or cherries.
• Serve Chilled: This dessert tastes best when thoroughly chilled, so plan ahead.

Serving Suggestions

• Whipped Cream Garnish: Add a dollop of fat-free whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle some dark chocolate shavings on top for a sophisticated finish.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: This cheesecake is the perfect companion to a hot beverage.

The Decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cheesecake is proof that you can have your dessert and enjoy it too. It’s rich, indulgent, and beautifully balanced with the tartness of raspberries. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or treating yourself, this cheesecake is sure to impress.