Low Cholesterol New York-Style Cheesecake
A lighter, low-cholesterol adaptation of classic New York-style cheesecake with creamy texture and rich flavor, suitable for health-conscious dessert lovers.
Ingredients
- nonstick vegetable cooking spray ⓘ
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons sugar ⓘ
- 1/4 cup margarine, melted
- 1 1/2 pounds light cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup sugar ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt ⓘ
- 1 cup frozen egg substitute, thawed ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Spray sides of a 9-inch springform pan with nonstick vegetable cooking spray.
- In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Add melted margarine and mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared springform pan to form the crust.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the light cream cheese until smooth.
- Add 1 cup of sugar and all-purpose flour, and beat until well combined.
- Mix in plain low-fat yogurt, thawed egg substitute, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the springform pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely before refrigerating.
- Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer cheesecake, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. If you prefer a sweeter crust, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the graham cracker mixture. You can substitute the low-fat yogurt with sour cream for a richer flavor. To make it even more decadent, consider adding a layer of fruit topping, similar to what you'd find in a Hershey Bar Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesecake chilled, garnished with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added flair. It pairs excellently with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings. For a delightful brunch, consider serving it alongside a Brunch Casserole(Overnight) or a fresh fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To keep the cheesecake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Low Cholesterol New York-Style Cheesecake contains roughly 211 calories, with 6g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% 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 regular cream cheese instead of light cream cheese?
Yes, you can use regular cream cheese, but it will increase the overall fat content. To maintain the low cholesterol aspect, stick with light cream cheese or try a plant-based alternative for a healthier option.
How can I tell when the cheesecake is done baking?
The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. It will continue to firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to cracks in the surface.
Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is ideal for making ahead. Chill it for at least 4 hours or overnight to enhance the flavor and texture. It's a great option for parties or holiday gatherings, allowing you to enjoy stress-free entertaining.
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).