Ingredients:
- 2.5 cups Nonfat Plain Greek Yogurt: This serves as the base of the cheesecake mixture, providing a rich, creamy texture while keeping it low-fat and high in protein. Greek yogurt also adds a tangy flavor that mimics the taste of traditional cream cheese.
- 1 oz Sugar-Free Jello Cheesecake Mix: This powdered mix gives the cheesecake flavor without the sugar or added calories of traditional cream cheese-based cheesecake. It’s the secret ingredient that transforms the yogurt into something cheesecake-like.
- 1/8 cup Strawberry Pie Filling or Topping: The strawberry topping adds sweetness and fruity flavor. You can also use fresh strawberries or any other fruit you prefer (like blueberry or raspberry) for variation.
- Dash of Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk (optional): If the mixture is too thick for your liking, a small amount of almond milk (or any milk) can be added to achieve a smoother, pourable consistency. This is optional but helpful if you prefer a creamier texture.
Detailed Instructions:
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture:
- In a large bowl, add 2.5 cups of nonfat plain Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for traditional cream cheese, giving you the same creamy texture but with fewer calories and more protein.
- Sprinkle 1 oz of sugar-free cheesecake Jello mix over the yogurt. This will be your primary flavoring agent. Use a whisk to blend the two ingredients together until fully combined.
- As you mix, the cheesecake flavor should begin to develop. If the mixture becomes too thick, slowly add a small amount of unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of your choice) to thin it out slightly. Stir well to ensure everything is smooth. The goal is to have a creamy consistency that will hold its shape but still be smooth enough to spoon into cups.
- Portion the Cheesecake Mixture:
- Once your mixture is ready, take 5.5 oz snack cups (or small containers) and spoon about 1/2 cup of the cheesecake mixture into each cup. You should have enough to make five servings. Make sure to smooth the top of each portion for an even, neat presentation.
- If you don’t have snack cups, you can also use small mason jars or plastic containers with lids for easy storage.
- Top with Strawberry Filling:
- Next, top each cup with 1/8 cup (or a generous spoonful) of strawberry pie filling or topping. You can use store-bought strawberry preserves or pie filling, or make your own fresh strawberry compote by cooking down fresh strawberries with a little sweetener until they thicken.
- Gently spoon the topping onto each cheesecake cup, ensuring it covers the surface but doesn’t mix too much into the cheesecake base. If you’re using fresh fruit, chop it up into small pieces and layer it on top of the cheesecake mixture.
- Chill the Cups:
- Once you’ve topped the cups, place them in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 1-2 hours. Chilling the cups helps the cheesecake mixture set up, allowing the flavors to meld together and the texture to become firmer. The cooling time also makes the treat more refreshing when served.
- If you’re preparing these in advance, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This makes them perfect for meal prep.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- After the cups have chilled, they’re ready to be served! You can eat them straight from the cup, or if you want to make it even more decadent, you can garnish them with a few fresh berries or a drizzle of extra strawberry topping.
- These strawberry cheesecake cups are a great option for a healthy dessert, a snack on the go, or even as a light breakfast when you’re craving something sweet but still want to stay on track with your nutrition.
Variations:
- Different Fruit Options: Swap the strawberry pie filling for other fruit toppings like blueberry, raspberry, or even mango. You can use fresh fruit or canned pie fillings. If you prefer a more natural option, fresh chopped fruit with a drizzle of honey works well too.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: For a bit of crunch, top the cups with crushed graham crackers or granola just before serving. This will give you the classic cheesecake crust flavor and texture.
- Make It Sweeter: If you have a sweeter tooth, you can drizzle a bit of honey, maple syrup, or agave over the top of the cups before serving.
- Layered Cheesecake Cups: For added presentation, you could layer the cheesecake mixture with the fruit topping for a colorful effect.
Tips:
- Adjusting Consistency: If you find the mixture too thick or too thin, adjust by adding a little bit more milk or letting it chill for a bit longer. The more it chills, the thicker it will become.
- Vegan or Dairy-Free Option: To make this dessert vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt (such as coconut or almond yogurt) and ensure the Jello mix is plant-based (some gelatin-based products may not be vegan).
- For Extra Flavor: A teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon can add extra depth to the flavor of the cheesecake base.
These Strawberry Cheesecake Cups are a versatile, easy-to-make treat that combines protein, flavor, and sweetness. Whether you’re serving them for a family gathering, meal prepping for the week, or just treating yourself, they’re a crowd-pleaser!