Description
This Easy High Protein Cheesecake Jars recipe is TikTok’s favorite snack made healthier and packed with protein. Featuring a crunchy almond flour crust and a creamy, protein-enriched Greek yogurt and cream cheese filling, it’s a delicious and satisfying treat that can be prepared with or without baking. Perfect for quick, portion-controlled snacks or dessert jars.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour (or crushed graham crackers for a classic vibe)
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil (or unsalted butter)
- 1–2 tbsp sweetener (like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar-free substitute)
Filling Ingredients:
- 8 oz low-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup Greek yogurt (2% or non-fat)
- 1–2 scoops vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 2–3 tbsp sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp lemon juice (for a tangy kick)
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Leave the cream cheese out at room temperature for 20–30 minutes or microwave on low power for 10 seconds to make it easy to mix without lumps.
- Measure Protein Powder: Accurately measure 1 to 2 scoops of vanilla protein powder to ensure the right protein content and flavor balance in your filling.
- Preheat Oven (Optional): If you prefer a baked crust, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Baking is optional depending on your crust choice.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine almond flour, melted coconut oil, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of sweetener. Mix well until it resembles a soggy sandbox texture that holds together when pressed.
- Portion the Crust: Use 4 to 6 small mason jars (each 4–6 oz). Press about 2–3 tablespoons of crust mixture firmly into the bottom of each jar using the back of a spoon.
- Bake or Chill the Crust: For the baked method, place jars on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until the crust is golden, then let cool. For no-bake, chill the jars in the fridge for 10–15 minutes to firm up the crust.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, 2 to 3 tablespoons sweetener, vanilla extract, and optional lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy without lumps.
- Assemble the Jars: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the crust layer in each jar, smoothing the top evenly.
- Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled jars for at least 1-2 hours to allow the filling to firm up and flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish as desired with fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey, then enjoy your high-protein cheesecake jars as a delicious snack or light dessert.
Notes
- The crust can be customized with graham crackers for a classic cheesecake taste or keep it gluten-free by using almond flour.
- Adjust the amount of sweetener to your preference or dietary needs, and consider sugar-free substitutes for lower calories.
- Protein powder type impacts flavor and texture; vanilla whey or plant-based powders work best.
- Baking the crust is optional but adds a nice toasted flavor and firmness. Refrigeration alone can firm it sufficiently.
- Cheesecake jars store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead snack.
- For a tangier flavor, add lemon juice to the filling; omit if you prefer a milder taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (optional crust baking)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: high protein cheesecake, cheesecake jars, healthy snacks, protein dessert, almond flour crust, Greek yogurt cheesecake, TikTok recipes
