Rock Springs Retreat Center / October 17, 2023 /
Anna Rutherford /
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Indulging in a healthy snack that satisfies your sweet tooth and boosts your protein intake is a win-win. These Healthy Cheesecake Protein Bites are a delightful treat with a nutrient-packed profile. What sets them apart is the innovative approach to crafting a healthier version of the traditional cheesecake, ensuring you can enjoy every bite without compromising your health goals.
Healthier Take on a Traditional Dessert
Unlike traditional cheesecakes laden with excess sugar and calories, our Healthy Cheesecake Protein Bites prioritize wholesome ingredients. The crust, made from graham cracker crumbs and a touch of coconut oil, provides a crunchy foundation without unnecessary additives. The cheesecake filling incorporates reduced-fat cream cheese, non-fat Greek yogurt, and a scoop of vanilla whey protein powder, infusing the treat with a protein punch that supports muscle health.
Moreover, we've replaced refined sugars with agave syrup as a sweetener, offering a natural alternative that's vegan friendly and has a lower glycemic index. The addition of corn or tapioca starch ensures a smooth, set texture without relying on excessive amounts of eggs or traditional thickeners.
By choosing lite sour cream and incorporating a reasonable portion size, this Healthy Cheesecake Recipe maintains the rich, creamy flavor of traditional cheesecake while prioritizing your nutritional well-being. Each bite-sized piece is a testament to the fact that you can enjoy the indulgence of cheesecake without compromising your commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Embrace the pleasure of this guilt-free treat, knowing that it aligns with your fitness and wellness goals.
Healthy Cheesecake Topping Options
Elevate your Healthy Cheesecake Protein Bites with toppings that not only add flavor but also contribute to their nutritional value. Opt for zesty bursts of citrus with lemon zest, adding a refreshing twist without the need for excessive sugar. Fresh fruits like berries, slices of pineapple, or the zing of fresh lemon zest not only enhance the visual appeal but also bring in essential vitamins and antioxidants. These topping choices not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal but also align with the commitment to a balanced and nutritious treat.
The versatility of this Healthy Cheesecake Recipe extends to the toppings, allowing you to get creative while staying mindful of your health. These additions not only enhance the overall enjoyment but also turn this into a customizable snack that suits your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Healthy Cheesecake Protein Bites Recipe
Yields: 12 Cheesecake Bites
Prep Time: 10 mins | Ready In: 3½-4 hours
Serving Size: 1 Cheesecake Bite
Calories: 150kcal | Fat: 3g | Carbs: 6g | Protein: 8g
Nut-free
Equipment
- 12-count Muffin Pan
- 8-10 cup Food Processor
- Measuring Cups
- ¼, ⅓, ½, 1 cup
- ¼, ⅓, ½, 1 cup
- Measuring Spoons
- Teaspoon & Tablespoon
- Teaspoon & Tablespoon
- Baking Spatula
- 2oz Ladle
- Paper Cupcake Liners
- Cooking Spray
Ingredients
- The Crust
- 3 cups of Graham Cracker Crumbs
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or make finely ground crumbs from gluten-free cereal or granola
- 2 tbsp Coconut Oil
- 1 tbsp Water
- 3 cups of Graham Cracker Crumbs
- The Cheesecake Filling
- 2 (8oz package) of Neufatchel - ⅓ Less Fat Cream Cheese, room temperature
- ¾ cup of Plain Non-fat Greek Yogurt, room temperature
- ¼ cup Low-fat Lite Sour Cream
- ⅓ cup Agave Syrup or Sugar-free Maple Syrup
- 2 Eggs
- 2 Egg Yolks
- 2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 tbs Tapioca Starch or Cornstarch
- ¼ cup Vanilla Whey Protein Powder
- Toppings (optional)
- Fresh Lemon Zest
- Fresh Pineapple, crushed
- Fresh Berry
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350° F and line a muffin tin with 12 cupcake liners.
2. Put graham cracker crumbs in a bowl. Wet and mix with coconut oil + water as needed to make a slightly wet, sand-like mixture just enough to moisten the crumbs.
3. Spray paper cupcake liners with cooking spray. Divide crumbs evenly amongst muffin liners (about 1 ½ tbs each). Then, use a spoon or your fingers to flatten and pack the crumbs.
4. Put all of the cheesecake filling ingredients in a large food processor, and on the lowest setting, mix until smooth for 30 - 60 seconds. Do not overmix.
5. Scoop mixture out of food processor with a 2 oz ladle, divide, and fill each muffin cup evenly. Bake 17-20 minutes or until the filling has just set - it should not be jiggly or look wet.
6. Let cool for 30 minutes at room temperature before moving to the refrigerator. Chill in the refrigerator at least 3 hours before serving.
7. When ready to serve, top as desired with zest or fruit.
Storage
- 3-5 days in the refrigerator
- Up to 1 month in the freezer
Elevate your snacking game with these guilt-free delights — the Healthy Cheesecake Protein Bites. Indulge in the creamy goodness while savoring the nutritional benefits. Have you tried this recipe? We'd love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts in the comments below. For more wholesome recipes and wellness tips, subscribe to our newsletter. Let's continue the journey to a healthier, happier you!
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