Lo-Fat "Cream Cheese" Pie
A light, creamy chocolate pie with a graham cracker crust, perfect for those seeking a low-fat dessert that combines smooth pudding with cottage cheese flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted diet margarine; press into an 8-inch pie plate.
- Bake in a 400°F oven for 5 minutes; then let cool.
- Dissolve unflavored gelatin in cold water and then add boiling water, stirring until dissolved.
- In a separate bowl, combine skim milk, cottage cheese, and the prepared pudding mix; blend until smooth.
- Add the gelatin mixture to the pudding mixture and mix well.
- Pour filling into the cooled graham cracker crust.
- Chill in the refrigerator until set, about 2-3 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter crust, consider substituting whole wheat graham cracker crumbs. If you don't have diet margarine, you can use unsalted butter or coconut oil. To enhance the flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the filling. When blending the cottage cheese, ensure it’s well-pureed for a smoother texture, similar to that found in Cheese Cake Easy.
Serving Suggestions
This pie is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh berries or a dollop of light whipped cream for added sweetness. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or fruit platter for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, you can serve it with a scoop of low-fat ice cream, reminiscent of classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best served chilled, so you can enjoy it straight from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as the texture may become grainy upon thawing. If needed, you can slice and serve individual portions directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Fat "Cream Cheese" Pie contains roughly 592 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 516mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of milk instead of skim milk?
Yes, you can substitute 1% or 2% milk for a creamier texture, but keep in mind that this will increase the fat content. For a dairy-free option, almond milk or oat milk can work, though they may slightly alter the flavor and consistency.
How do I know when the pie is set?
The pie should be firm to the touch and hold its shape when gently shaken. Allow it to chill for at least 2-3 hours, but if you prefer a firmer texture, you can chill it overnight. The gelatin will help achieve the right consistency.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pie is perfect for making ahead, as it tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Just be sure to cover it well in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It’s a great option for gatherings or dessert prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).