Low Fat Classic Cheesecake with Cherry Topping
Indulge in the creamy decadence of this *Low Fat Classic Cheesecake with Cherry Topping*, a guilt-free twist on the beloved dessert! Crafted with reduced-fat cream cheese, non-fat Greek yogurt, and a light graham cracker crust sweetened naturally with unsweetened applesauce, this cheesecake delivers all the velvety richness you crave with a fraction of the calories. The luscious cherry topping, made from fresh or frozen cherries and brightened with a hint of lemon zest, adds a vibrant, tangy-sweet finish that perfectly complements the smooth, slightly tangy filling. Simple to prepare and impressive to serve, this healthier dessert is ideal for gatherings or a special treat for yourself. Whether you're watching your waistline or simply seeking a lighter option, this recipe combines flavor, texture, and elegance in every bite. Perfect for keywords like "low-fat cheesecake," "healthy cherry desserts," and "easy lightened-up cheesecake recipe," this dessert is sure to satisfy without the guilt!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 9 sheets Low-fat graham crackers
- 3 tablespoons Unsweetened applesauce
- 16 ounces Reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel)
- 1 cup Non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 3 large Eggs
- 2 cups Cherries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon Water
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon Lemon zest
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a food processor, blend the low-fat graham cracker sheets until finely crumbed. In a small bowl, combine the crumbs with unsweetened applesauce. Mix until well incorporated.
Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the reduced-fat cream cheese until smooth. Add the non-fat Greek yogurt and beat until combined.
Gradually add the 1 cup of granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until well blended.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven and crack the oven door open with the cheesecake inside to let it cool slowly, about 1 hour. Then transfer the cheesecake to the fridge to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
For the cherry topping, combine cherries, water, cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Cook the cherries, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the lemon zest. Let it cool to room temperature.
Just before serving, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and top with the cherry mixture.
Slice and enjoy your low-fat classic cheesecake with cherry topping!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
3211 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 120.7 g | 155% | |
| Saturated Fat | 63.4 g | 317% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 889 mg | 296% | |
| Sodium | 2650 mg | 115% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 437.6 g | 159% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 15.2 g | 54% | |
| Total Sugars | 349.0 g | ||
| Protein | 88.3 g | 177% | |
| Vitamin D | 3.1 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 768 mg | 59% | |
| Iron | 7.7 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 2290 mg | 49% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
