Delightful Low-Calorie Lemon Yogurt Cheesecake Cups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt and cream cheese, offering the best of both worlds—rich and indulgent but without the heavy calories of traditional cheesecake. The addition of lemon adds a fresh, bright flavor, making it feel light and refreshing. The crust, made from crushed graham crackers and butter, gives the perfect crunch without being overly indulgent. These individual cheesecake cups are easy to serve, making them great for parties, gatherings, or just a special treat to enjoy at home.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Crust:

• 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

For Topping:

• Fresh berries (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with melted butter until well combined. Divide the mixture evenly into the bottom of 4 small serving cups or ramekins and press down firmly to form the crust. Set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, cream cheese, honey (or maple syrup), lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. Spoon the cheesecake filling over the prepared crusts in the cups. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
4. Refrigerate the cheesecake cups for at least 2-3 hours or until set.
5. Before serving, top each cheesecake cup with fresh berries of your choice for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 2-3 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Variations

• Add a Sweet Twist: If you like a sweeter dessert, increase the amount of honey or maple syrup to suit your taste. You can also add a bit of powdered stevia or monk fruit for a sugar-free option.
• Graham Cracker Alternative: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed almonds as the crust base.
• Flavored Cheesecake: Add a tablespoon of fruit puree (like strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry) to the cheesecake mixture for a fruity twist.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the cream cheese with a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream cheese or coconut yogurt to make this dessert dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cheesecake cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: These cheesecake cups are meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat them. They keep well in the fridge for a few days for a quick grab-and-go treat.

FAQs

Can I use a different sweetener besides honey or maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute honey or maple syrup with other sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol. Adjust the amount to suit your preferred level of sweetness.

Can I make these cheesecake cups ahead of time?

Yes, these cheesecake cups are perfect for meal prepping. Make them a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Can I make the crust without butter?

Yes, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter alternative for a dairy-free version. You could also try using a mixture of yogurt or applesauce for a lighter option.

How do I make the cheesecake filling smoother?

Ensure that the cream cheese is softened before mixing to prevent any lumps. Also, using a hand mixer or whisking vigorously will help achieve a smooth texture.

Can I freeze these cheesecake cups?

While they can be frozen, the texture may change slightly after thawing. It’s best to store them in the fridge for the freshest taste and consistency.

Can I make these cheesecake cups without a crust?

Yes, you can skip the crust if you prefer a lighter version or want to make it low-carb. Simply serve the cheesecake filling topped with fruit.

What other toppings can I use for these cheesecake cups?

In addition to fresh berries, you can top these cups with whipped cream, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added flavor.

Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain Greek yogurt?

You can, but it may alter the flavor of the cheesecake. If you choose flavored yogurt, reduce or omit the honey to avoid it being too sweet.

How can I make this dessert more creamy?

If you prefer a creamier texture, you can increase the amount of cream cheese or Greek yogurt, depending on your preference for creaminess vs. tanginess.

Can I use a store-bought graham cracker crust?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use a pre-made graham cracker crust instead of making your own. Just be mindful that store-bought options may contain added sugars.

Conclusion

These Delightful Low-Calorie Lemon Yogurt Cheesecake Cups are the perfect blend of light and creamy with a fresh, tangy kick from the lemon. They’re quick to prepare, delicious, and an excellent healthier alternative to traditional cheesecake. With the option to top them with fresh berries or other toppings, you can easily customize these cups to fit your tastes. They make for an impressive yet easy-to-make dessert that everyone will love—without all the calories!

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