Light Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake Recipe - 200 Calories (2024)

This light greek yogurt cream cheese cheesecake has decadence written all over it, but I love that it’s lightened up! I promise you won’t miss the full fat cream cheese and heavy sour cream. This cheesecake is light and fluffy, but still rich, has a very subtle lemony flavor and it won’t leave you feeling too full!

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Love lightened up desserts? You should also check out: whole wheat oatmeal chocolate chip cookies bars and healthy fruit tarts!

You guys. This weekend, Trevor and I had light greek yogurt cream cheese cheesecake.

Sounds like a mouthful, right?

Well, it was and it was a very delicious mouthful for about 200 caloriesLESS thanthe calories of regular cheesecake!

It also is significantlylower in fat and has more protein per slice!

Now let me tell you, this is not healthy, it’s just less bad, so you can maybe eat one more tiny slice and not feel as bad about it!

I am constantly on the search for how to lighten up desserts, without losing any of the sinful flavors and texture…only the calories and I think this one really succeeded!

This cheesecake is still so creamy and rich, and nothing’s better than a ‘Nilla Wafer crust.

Smother it in fruit or just eat it plain, you’ll never know that this light greek yogurt cream cheese cheesecake is *better* for you than the traditional cheesecake!

Light Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake Recipe - 200 Calories (2)

Light Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake Recipe - 200 Calories (3)I knew I wanted to make a lightened up cheesecake for you guys, so on Friday I went to the grocery store and got everything I needed.

Then Saturday morning, I took out my ingredients so they could soften to room temperature.

We took Teddy to the park and when we got home I was raring to go!

But wait!

I could NOT for the life of me find my cheesecake springform panLight Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake Recipe - 200 Calories (4). I looked everywhere!

Like the, I emptied cabinets, scoured through cupboards, checked crazy places where there was no chance they’d be but it was all that was left… everywhere.

I announcedmy surrender to Trevor and explained the pans were no longer here. “Did you look under the stove?” Trevor says.

First of all, yes, I did look under the stove.

Second of all, we have a long standing rivalry over who is right in a situation, or some fact, or directions… whatever, we compete 🙂

Current score Trevor – 526 | Jennifer – 38. Yeah, I know… I don’t want to talk about it.

Needless to say… I just looked without saying anything just in case (gotta try to keep it as close as I can). I won’t keep you in suspense, they were there. Like I said… I don’t want to talk about it.

It was a long week, what can I say.

How do you make a graham cracker crust for this light greek yogurt cream cheese cheesecake?

  1. Crush nilla wafers in your food processor and measure out 1 and 1/2 cups
  2. Mix the crumbs with brown sugar and lemon zest
  3. Pour melted butter over the crumb mixture and mix
  4. Pour this into the bottom of a greased 9 in cheesecake pan
  5. Press down gently, but firmly until the crust is evenly distributed on the bottom of the pan
  6. Bake and set aside

How to make a baked greek yogurt cheesecake:

  • Take two room temperature 8 oz tubs of whipped greek yogurt cream cheese
    • Since the cream cheese I used was already whipped, I just gave it a quick stir in my stand mixer
  • Incorporate room temperature eggs
  • Add in 1 cup of sugar and mix together
  • Mix in some 2 % plain greek yogurt, lemon zest, vanilla extract, lemon juice, salt, and cornstarch
  • Pour onto your pre baked crust
  • Bake

Let’s back it up real quick, because

What is greek yogurt cream cheese?

It’s basically Greek yogurt in cream cheese form. It has more protein and less fat. #winning

Now.

Tips onhow to avoid cracking in the top of your cheesecake…

  1. Don’t open the oven door! The change in air temperature can cause a crack.
  2. Don’t overbake. The center (about 2-3 inches) will still be jiggly. The cheesecake will continue to set as it cools.

If you do get a crack, however, who cares?! It still tastes good and just smother it in fruit, lemon curd, or your topping of choice to hide it.

Nobody needs to know 😉

Can you substitute yogurt for cream cheese or sour cream in a cheesecake?

Yes! That’s exactly what I did to make this cheesecake lighter. I replaced some of the cream cheese and sour cream with the greek yogurt!

Still has that really great cream cheese flavor, but it’s significantly lightened up in the calorie department!

Once the cheesecake has cooked, remove from the oven (without sticking your oven mitt in it like I did, whoopsey) and let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.

Then loosely cover with foil (you may get a little condensation)and let cool in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.

If you’re really impatient, I tested this at 2 hours in the fridge, and it was still warm and a little gooey, but what’s bad about that? 😉

Even with the mishaps: the missing cheesecake pan and the mitt print in the top, this light greek yogurt cream cheese cheesecake was 100 % successful!!

This light greek yogurt cream cheese cheesecake has decadence written all over it, but I love that it’s lightened up!

I promise you won’t miss the full fat cream cheese and heavy sour cream.

This cheesecake is light and fluffy, but still rich and decadent, has a very subtle lemony flavor and it won’t leave you feeling too full!

Light Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake Recipe - 200 Calories (5)

I love the tang and it’s just sweet enough to make it the perfect light greek yogurt cream cheese cheesecake!

– Jennifer

Light Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake Recipe - 200 Calories (6)

Light Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake

4.98 from 72 votes

This light greek yogurt cream cheese cheesecake has decadence written all over it, but I love that it's lightened up! I promise you won't miss the full fat cream cheese and heavy sour cream. This cheesecake is light and fluffy, but still rich, has a very subtle lemony flavor and it won't leave you feeling too full!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Yield: 16 people

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Ingredients

US Customary - Metric

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups crushed nilla wafers
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons butter melted

Filling

  • 2 (8 oz) tubs whipped greek yogurt cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 3 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 (16 oz) container 2 % plain greek yogurt room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Instructions

Crust

  • Preheat oven to 325 degree F and thoroughly grease a 9 inch cheesecake pan (be sure to grease the bottom and sides). Set aside.

  • In a large bowl, mix together wafer crumbs, brown sugar, zest, and melted butter until well combined.

  • Pour into prepared pan and press down gently, but firmly until the crust is evenly distributed on the bottom of the pan.

  • Bake in preheated oven for 6 - 8 minutes, or until lightly golden.

  • Set aside to cool.

Filling

  • Place whipped cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat for 2 minutes.

  • Slowly beat in eggs, one at a time.

  • Beat in sugar. You may need to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl.

  • Beat in greek yogurt, lemon zest, vanilla extract, lemon juice, salt, and cornstarch.

  • Pour onto pre baked crust.

  • Bake in preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. After 40-50 minutes, the middle will still be “jiggly”. 2 - 3 inches from the middle should be jiggly. It will continue to set as it cools.

  • Remove from the oven and let cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.

  • Loosely cover with foil (you may get a little condensation) and let cool in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.

  • Serve and enjoy!

  • Take 5 seconds to rate this recipe below. We greatly appreciate it!

Rate This Recipe

STORING

Room Temp:N/A

Refrigerator:4-5 Days

Freezer:6 Months

Reheat:If frozen, thaw in fridge

*Storage times may vary based on temperature and conditions

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Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts

Light Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake

Amount Per Serving

Calories 210 Calories from Fat 81

% Daily Value*

Fat 9g14%

Saturated Fat 4g25%

Cholesterol 57mg19%

Sodium 235mg10%

Potassium 131mg4%

Carbohydrates 25g8%

Sugar 19g21%

Protein 6g12%

Vitamin A 275IU6%

Vitamin C 1.2mg1%

Calcium 80mg8%

Iron 0.2mg1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

*Note: Nutrition information is estimated and varies based on products used.

Keywords: fresh, greek yogurt, light

Enjoy this recipe?

Tag @showmetheyummy on Instagram and hashtag it #showmetheyummy

Course: Dessert - Lightened Up

Cuisine: American

Light Greek Yogurt Cream Cheese Cheesecake Recipe - 200 Calories (2024)

FAQs

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for cheesecake? ›

If you're looking for a healthier substitute for cream cheese in cheesecake, greek yogurt is the best choice. Greek yogurt has a thicker and more smooth texture than plain yogurt and a sour taste. It also has more protein and less fat, which makes it a good choice if you are trying to cut down on your fat intake.

How much Greek yogurt equals one block of cream cheese? ›

I also use Greek yogurt in banana bread, onion dip, enchiladas, chicken salad, and even used it to make a healthier version of Alfredo Sauce. Here is a guide for substitution: 1 Cup Greek Yogurt = 1 Cup Mayonnaise. 1 Cup Greek Yogurt = 1 Block of Cream Cheese.

Does Greek yogurt have more protein than cream cheese? ›

Yogurt generally has more protein than cheese and sour cream. It's a good source of protein, especially if you choose the Greek yogurt variety, which tends to have even higher protein content.

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream for cheesecake? ›

Plain yogurt: Equal parts plain yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream. Not only does it have a similar texture and tangy flavor, but it also has more protein.

What is the benefit of substituting low fat yogurt cheese for cream cheese? ›

And it is decidedly better for you than cream cheese. A tablespoon of cream cheese has 50 calories and 5 grams of fat. The same amount of yogurt cheese has just 11 calories and no fat. To make yogurt cheese, select a nonfat or low-fat yogurt that doesn't contain any gelatin, starch or gums.

How much Greek yogurt to substitute for 8oz cream cheese? ›

How to Use Greek Yogurt in Your Recipes
Use Greek Yogurt to ReplaceReplace With
1 Cup Heavy Cream1 Cup Greek Yogurt
1 Cup Mayo1 Cup Greek Yogurt
1 Cup Oil1/3 Cup Oil + 2/3 Cup Greek Yogurt
8 oz Cream Cheese4 oz Cream Cheese + 1/2 Cup Greek Yogurt
4 more rows

What is the lowest calorie cream cheese? ›

Philadelphia Plain Fat Free Cream Cheese has set the standard in high-quality cream cheese since 1872. This fat-free plain cream cheese has 30 calories per 2 tablespoons, and it delivers the same delicious taste and quality as regular cream cheese without the fat.

Is Greek cream cheese healthier than regular cream cheese? ›

Yes, Greek yogurt cream cheese is often considered a healthier alternative to regular cream cheese due to its lower fat content and higher protein content. It can be used in a variety of dishes, such as dips, spreads, and desserts, while providing a lighter option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.

Can I use sour cream instead of cream cheese? ›

Sour cream replicates cream cheese's taste but isn't quite as caloric, making it a good choice for a lower-calorie substitute. It gives baked goods a texture that's airy and moist, and even adds an extra bit of creaminess to cheesecake. You can substitute an equal amount of sour cream for cream cheese in recipes.

Is Greek yogurt good for your gut? ›

Greek yogurt is probiotic, meaning it is typically produced from live bacterial cultures. These bacteria can help support the good bacteria that already live in your digestive system. Consuming probiotics like Greek yogurt may improve your digestive system's ability to handle a wide variety of foods.

Is Greek yogurt a carb or protein? ›

Greek yogurt is a protein-rich dairy product that's high in many nutrients like vitamin B12, calcium, and selenium. But, its nutritional value and health benefits can vary depending on the brand you choose. Greek yogurt is an excellent source of a number of nutrients and may even offer a few health benefits.

Which has more protein eggs or Greek yogurt? ›

Greek yogurt is a far more nutritious option. “Six ounces contain 15 grams of protein — two to three times the amount you'd find in regular yogurt and more than the amount 2 ounces of meat or two eggs provide,” notes Hopsecger. Greek yogurt also boasts probiotics, the healthy bacteria that support gut health.

What happens if you put too much sour cream in cheesecake? ›

Sour cream adds tanginess and moisture, so if you use too much, it can make the cheesecake too tangy and the additional moisture can make it runny.

Is sour cream or yogurt better in cheesecake? ›

Greek yogurt

It can be used as a 1:1 substitute for sour cream in cheesecake. Greek yogurt is a great option for those looking for a healthier option, as it is lower in fat and calories than sour cream.

Is heavy cream or sour cream better for cheesecake? ›

Sour Cream: This gave it more of a tart taste. This could be utilized if you are going to make a flavored cheesecake where a more tart taste would help the other flavors. I think it would work really well with a lemon or lime flavored cheesecake. Heavy Whipping Cream: This gave it more of a milky taste.

Can I use Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese? ›

Greek yogurt is a great alternative to cream cheese. It also gives your favorite dishes a healthy twist because it's rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin B12 ( 3 ). Use an equal amount of Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese to make dips, spreads, frostings, and baked goods.

Can you swap Greek yogurt for cream cheese? ›

Once you've tracked down your ideal full-fat yogurt, you can typically sub it out for cream cheese in a 1:1 ratio, even when baking. However, keep in mind that yogurt is a little tangier than cream cheese (especially Greek yogurt or Icelandic skyr), so the replacement might affect the overall flavor of your dish.

Does Greek yogurt taste like cream cheese? ›

Greek yogurt doesn't have the same flavor or consistency as cream cheese. You couldn't use it in a cheesecake recipe as a replacement but you could use it for the cheesecake topping instead of sour cream. The taste would be different and there's no noticeable nutritional bonus for this change.

What is a dairy free substitute for cream cheese in cheesecake? ›

Silken tofu: Silken tofu can be used as a vegan alternative to cream cheese. It has a creamy texture and neutral flavor, making it a great option for a cheesecake filling. Ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can be used in place of cream cheese for a lighter and less tangy cheesecake.

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