Protein Cheesecake

Protein Cheesecake Recipe

Here’s a simple and delicious Protein Cheesecake Recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying on track with your fitness goals:

Ingredients

Crust (optional):

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (or almond flour for a lower-carb option)
  • 2 tbsp coconut oil or unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp sweetener (e.g., Stevia, monk fruit, or your choice)

Filling:

  • 16 oz (450 g) fat-free or low-fat cream cheese (softened)
  • 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 scoop (30-40 g) vanilla or unflavored protein powder (whey or casein)
  • 1/2 cup sweetener (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a tangy flavor)

Toppings (optional):

  • Fresh berries
  • Sugar-free chocolate drizzle
  • Light whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust (optional):
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
    • Mix the crust ingredients in a bowl until combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a springform pan (7–9 inches) lined with parchment paper.
    • Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool.
  2. Make the Filling:
    • In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
    • Add Greek yogurt, sweetener, eggs, protein powder, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined, avoiding over-mixing to prevent cracks.
  3. Bake the Cheesecake:
    • Pour the filling over the crust (or directly into a greased pan if skipping the crust).
    • Place the springform pan in a larger baking dish. Add hot water to the larger dish until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cheesecake pan (water bath method to prevent cracking).
    • Bake for 40–50 minutes or until the edges are set, but the center is slightly jiggly.
  4. Cool and Chill:
    • Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 30 minutes with the door slightly ajar.
    • Remove from the oven and cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to set.
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Slice, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy a high-protein treat!

Nutrition (per slice, assuming 8 slices, no toppings, crust made with almond flour):

  • Calories: ~150–180
  • Protein: ~15–20g
  • Carbs: ~5–10g
  • Fat: ~5–8g

Enjoy this healthy sweet treat at Camp Lakewood Campground!