Virtuous Cheesecake
A light and creamy cheesecake with a graham cracker crust, topped with fresh strawberries. Perfect for a health-conscious dessert that combines richness with fruity freshness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the nonfat cream cheese, sugar, flour, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer at medium speed.
- Add the nonfat sour cream and egg whites, blending until smooth.
- Spray a 9-inch pie pan with nonfat cooking spray and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.
- Pour the cheese mixture into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 325°F for 40 minutes.
- Allow to cool, then refrigerate for 3 hours.
- Top with sliced strawberries before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before blending. You can substitute the nonfat sour cream with Greek yogurt for added protein. If you want a different flavor, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheesecake chilled, topped with fresh sliced strawberries. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. For a delightful contrast, consider serving it alongside a refreshing slice of Strawberry-Lemonade Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virtuous Cheesecake contains roughly 346 calories, with 8g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% 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 make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Yes, this cheesecake can be made a day in advance. After baking, allow it to cool completely and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice.
What can I use instead of graham cracker crumbs?
If you don't have graham cracker crumbs, you can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers as a substitute for the crust. For a healthier option, try using finely ground oats mixed with a little coconut oil.
How do I know 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 firm up as it cools. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to cracks in the surface.
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).