Light and Delicious! Recipe
This Greek Yogurt Cheesecake is a light and delicious dessert that combines the creaminess of traditional cheesecake with the tangy freshness of Greek yogurt. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a smooth, creamy filling, it’s a healthier twist on classic cheesecake that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Author: luca
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American (with Greek yogurt influence)
- Diet: Low Fat
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 cups Graham cracker crumbs (about 13 graham cracker sheets)
- ¼ cup Granulated sugar
- ½ cup Unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 15 ounces 2% Plain Greek yogurt (about 1⅔ cups)
- 16 ounces Reduced fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 3 Large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- ¼ cup All-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp Pure vanilla extract
- Finely grated zest of 1 small lemon (optional)
- Prepare the Pan: Wrap foil around the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to prevent leaks. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Make the Graham Cracker Crust: In a large bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and about an inch up the sides of the springform pan using the bottom of a measuring cup. Place the crust in the freezer while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: In a food processor, blend Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, eggs, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) until smooth and creamy. Pause occasionally to scrape down the sides for even mixing.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the cheesecake filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the center of the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, until the edges are set but the center still jiggles slightly.
- Cool and Chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once at room temperature, refrigerate the cheesecake for several hours until fully chilled and set.
- Serve: Serve the cheesecake chilled, topped with your choice of fresh berries, fruit compote, caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator.
Notes
- This cheesecake pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings such as fresh berries, fruit compote, caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
- Greek yogurt adds tanginess and lightens the texture; for a richer flavor, use full-fat Greek yogurt.
- Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth batter and even baking.
- Wrapping the bottom of the springform pan with foil prevents water leaks if baking in a water bath or from oven spills.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cheesecake)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 27 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: Greek yogurt cheesecake, healthy cheesecake, light cheesecake, dessert recipe, graham cracker crust, low fat cheesecake