These Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Cups are a tasty treat that’s easy to make! They combine creamy cheesecake flavor and fresh strawberries, packed with protein to keep you full.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a sweet dessert that’s also good for you? I like to grab one for breakfast or a snack. Plus, they’re so fun to make, you’ll want to invite friends to join!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: I recommend using full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat cream cheese works too. Vegan cream cheese can be a good alternative for dairy-free diets.
Greek Yogurt: Plain nonfat Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess. You can substitute it with regular yogurt, but it will affect the texture slightly. Dairy-free yogurt made from almond or coconut is also great if you’re avoiding dairy.
Vanilla Protein Powder: I like using whey protein for a creamy flavor, but plant-based protein powders like pea or hemp protein can also fit well! Just check that it’s unflavored if you want to maintain a cheesecake taste.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries bring vibrant flavor, but you could use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before chopping.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: If you want a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free graham crackers or ground oats. I often use ground almonds for a nuttier flavor.
How Do I Get the Cream Cheese Smooth and Creamy?
Getting your cream cheese to the right texture is key for a smooth filling. Start with softened cream cheese straight from room temperature—this helps to mix it better. Here’s how to ensure a creamy mixture:
- Let the cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat it until smooth before adding other ingredients.
- Mix in the yogurt and protein powder gradually to avoid lumps; this helps everything combine evenly.
With these tips, you’ll have a wonderfully creamy cheesecake filling that pairs deliciously with fresh strawberries! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Strawberry Cheesecake Protein Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, nonfat or low-fat)
- 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or strawberry sauce
For the Crust:
- 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs or ground oats (for crust)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 2 hours in the fridge to chill and set. It’s a great make-ahead dessert or snack option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs (or ground oats) with the melted butter until the mixture looks like wet sand. This will be the base for your protein cups!
2. Form the Base Layer:
Divide the crust mixture evenly among 6 small serving cups or ramekins. Press down firmly to create a compact layer at the bottom. Once done, pop them in the fridge while you whip up the filling.
3. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. This is the foundation of your cheesecake filling, so you want it to be creamy!
4. Add Other Ingredients:
Mix in the Greek yogurt, vanilla protein powder, honey or maple syrup (if you’re using it), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and super smooth.
5. Fill the Cups:
Take your cheesecake filling and spoon or pipe it evenly on top of the crust layers in each cup. Make sure each cup gets a generous amount of that creamy goodness!
6. Garnish with Strawberries:
Top each cheesecake cup with the diced fresh strawberries. For an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle some strawberry jam or sauce over the strawberries. This gives it a beautiful and delicious finish!
7. Chill and Set:
Cover the cups and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and gives it the perfect set.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the strawberry cheesecake protein cups out of the fridge, serve them chilled, and enjoy your delicious, protein-packed treat!
These cups are a fantastic way to satisfy your dessert cravings while getting some extra protein in your day. Have fun making and sharing them!
Can I Use Different Fruits for Topping?
Absolutely! While strawberries are delicious, you can swap them out for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness if you choose fruit that’s less sweet than strawberries.
Can I Make These Protein Cups Vegan?
Yes! To make these cups vegan, use dairy-free cream cheese, coconut yogurt instead of Greek yogurt, and a plant-based protein powder. For the crust, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan margarine.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to enjoy them chilled, as they taste best cold!
Can I Freeze These Protein Cups?
You can freeze them, but keep in mind that the texture might change slightly when thawed. If you do freeze, make sure to store them in a freezer-safe container and allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
