Description
If you’re looking for a cheesecake that’s rich, creamy, yet lighter and packed with protein, this Berry Cottage Cheese Cheesecake is a must-try! Instead of traditional cream cheese, this recipe uses blended cottage cheese, creating a silky texture with a slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with sweet berries.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat, blended until smooth)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup (or ½ cup granulated sugar for a traditional version)
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder for gluten-free option)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh flavor boost)
For the Crust (Optional):
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free/keto option)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 2 tbsp honey or sugar
For the Berry Topping:
- 1 ½ cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
- 2 tbsp honey or sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening the sauce)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust (Optional)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and honey (or sugar) until combined.
- Press into a 9-inch pie dish or springform pan.
- Bake for 8 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Blend the Cheesecake Filling
- In a blender or food processor, blend cottage cheese until completely smooth.
- Add Greek yogurt, eggs, honey/maple syrup, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using).
- Blend again until creamy and lump-free.
Step 3: Bake the Cheesecake
- Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust (or directly into a greased pan if crustless).
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly set but still jiggly.
- Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) before serving.
Step 4: Make the Berry Topping (Optional)
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine berries, honey/sugar, and lemon juice.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until berries soften.
- Mix cornstarch with water and stir into the berries if a thicker sauce is desired.
- Let cool, then spoon over the cheesecake before serving.
Notes
- Healthier Alternative: Made with blended cottage cheese for a lighter, protein-rich cheesecake.
- Customizable: Easily make it gluten-free, low-carb, or refined sugar-free with simple swaps.
- No Water Bath Needed: A foolproof cheesecake with a smooth texture—just blend, bake, and chill!
- Make Ahead: Best when chilled for at least 4 hours or overnight for the perfect texture.
- Berry Options: Use strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries fresh or as a cooked topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Healthy Dessert
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ of cheesecake)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 55mg