If you love a dessert that feels like a little celebration in every bite, you are going to adore this Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe. These charming, bite-sized cheesecakes are creamy, rich, and packed with protein thanks to the Greek yogurt — making them a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving an afternoon treat or a special finale to dinner, these mini cheesecakes bring a delightful balance of tangy lemon, sweet vanilla, and a satisfyingly crunchy graham cracker crust. Get ready to wow your taste buds and impress friends with this effortlessly elegant dessert!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: the graham cracker crumbs create a buttery crust, the cream cheese and Greek yogurt deliver creamy texture and protein, and the lemon adds a refreshing zing that makes the whole dessert sing.
- Graham cracker crumbs: For that classic crunchy base, you can easily go gluten-free by choosing the right crackers.
- Salted butter: Melted and mixed with crumbs for a rich, flavorful crust that holds everything together.
- Cream cheese: Provides the silky, indulgent cheesecake texture; room temperature helps it blend smoothly.
- Plain 0% Greek yogurt: Adds protein and lightness, balancing the richness while keeping it healthy.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the delicate lemon flavor.
- Egg and egg yolk: Bring structure to the filling while keeping it creamy and stable.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Lemon juice: Adds that bright, fresh tang that takes this cheesecake to the next level.
- Lemon zest (optional): If you want extra punch, the zest gives a fragrant lemon aroma.
- Arrowroot starch or cornstarch: Thickens the filling slightly for a perfect set without cracks.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a cupcake tin with 12 liners. The crust forms the foundation of your mini cheesecakes, so it’s worth packing it in firmly. Crush the graham crackers finely—either with a food processor or by pounding them in a bag—and mix them with the melted butter to create a crumbly, buttery mixture. Press about 1.5 tablespoons into each liner and bake just long enough to set, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step delivers the perfect nutty, slightly crunchy bottom to complement a velvety filling.
Step 2: Whip Up the Creamy Filling
While the crust cools, it’s time to make that irresistible filling. Beat the cream cheese until luxuriously smooth—no lumps allowed here—then add the Greek yogurt, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and lemon juice. A touch of arrowroot starch helps the filling set perfectly without cracking. Give everything a gentle mix on low speed; remember, the goal is a silky custard, not a frothy batter. This careful blending ensures the cheesecakes will have that signature creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Fill and Bake
Divide the filling evenly over the cooled crusts, filling each liner nearly to the top. Bake for 17 to 20 minutes, keeping an eye on the texture—the filling should be just set, not wobbly or wet-looking. This stage is key to achieving the ideal consistency, so resist the urge to overbake. Once done, let the cheesecakes come to room temperature, then chill them thoroughly for at least 3 hours. Patience here pays off with that satisfying, firm cheesecake bite.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once chilled, these adorable mini cheesecakes are ready for their finishing touch. Top them with fresh berries and mint leaves for a pop of color and a burst of freshness that perfectly complements the creamy richness. And that’s it—your Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe is complete and destined to impress!
How to Serve Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add natural sweetness and vibrant color to your mini cheesecakes. Small mint leaves are a lovely touch that adds brightness and visual appeal, making each bite feel fresh and festive.
Side Dishes
If you want to turn this treat into a mini dessert spread, consider pairing with a light fruit salad or a tangy berry coulis. These sides complement the creamy texture without overpowering the subtle lemony notes of the cheesecake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve your mini cheesecakes in clear mini jars or on a pretty tray lined with parchment paper. You can also drizzle a little honey or chocolate sauce on top for extra decadence. The beauty of this Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe is how well it adapts to your personal style and occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These mini cheesecakes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping them chilled maintains the perfect texture and flavor, so be sure to cover them well to avoid absorbing any fridge odors.
Freezing
You can freeze these goodies for up to 1 month. Wrap each cheesecake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to keep their creamy texture intact.
Reheating
Since these cheesecakes are best enjoyed chilled, reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a slightly softened cheese texture, simply let them sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe?
Absolutely! Low-fat cream cheese works well here, especially since the Greek yogurt already adds lightness and protein. Just ensure it’s softened at room temperature for smooth blending.
What if I don’t have arrowroot starch or cornstarch?
You can omit the starch if needed, but the filling might be slightly less firm. Alternatively, a small amount of flour can be used, but arrowroot or cornstarch gives the best set without affecting texture.
Can I make these cheesecakes dairy-free?
This recipe relies on cream cheese and Greek yogurt for texture and protein, so dairy-free substitutions might change the result. However, using dairy-free cream cheese and a plant-based yogurt could be experimented with, keeping in mind the texture might be softer.
How do I prevent cracks on the cheesecake surface?
Mix the filling gently and bake at a moderate temperature. Overmixing or overbaking causes cracks. Also, cooling the cheesecakes gradually and chilling before serving helps maintain a smooth surface.
Is the crust gluten-free?
The crust can easily be gluten-free by using gluten-free graham crackers. Just make sure to check the labels. This change won’t affect the deliciousness of your Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe at all!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the way these Mini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe comes together—simple ingredients transforming into a creamy, tangy, and utterly delightful treat. Perfect for when you want to indulge without guilt, these mini delights will soon become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Give them a try, share with friends, and enjoy every single heavenly bite!
PrintMini Protein Cheesecakes Recipe
Delicious mini protein cheesecakes featuring a graham cracker crust and a creamy cream cheese and Greek yogurt filling, lightly flavored with lemon. Perfectly portioned for a healthy dessert or snack, these cheesecakes are baked to set and chilled for a creamy texture, topped with fresh berries and mint.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 mini cheesecakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free if needed, about 10 sheets)
- 5 Tbsp salted butter (melted)
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese (room temperature, regular or low fat if desired)
- ¾ cup plain 0% Greek yogurt (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- ¼ – ½ tsp lemon zest (optional for extra lemon flavor)
- 1 Tbsp arrowroot starch or cornstarch
Topping
- Fresh berries (for garnish)
- Small mint leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a cupcake tin with 12 liners.
- Make Crust: Process graham crackers in a food processor until fine crumbs form. Add melted butter and pulse to combine. Alternatively, crush crackers in a plastic bag with a rolling pin and mix with melted butter in a bowl.
- Form Crust Base: Evenly divide the crumb mixture among the muffin liners (about 1.5 tablespoons each). Press down firmly with your fingers to compact and flatten the crust at the base of each liner.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crusts for 5 to 6 minutes, then remove from the oven and let them cool for 5 to 10 minutes while preparing the filling.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with a handheld electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Add Filling Ingredients: Add Greek yogurt, egg, egg yolk, sugar, vanilla extract, lemon juice, lemon zest, and arrowroot starch to the cream cheese. Mix on the lowest speed for 30 to 60 seconds until smooth, taking care not to overbeat to avoid incorporating too much air.
- Fill Muffin Liners: Divide the filling evenly among the prepared crusts in the muffin liners.
- Bake Cheesecakes: Bake for 17 to 20 minutes or until the filling is just set. The tops should not jiggle or appear wet when gently shaken.
- Cool and Chill: Let the mini cheesecakes cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours to fully set and develop flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top the mini cheesecakes with fresh berries and small mint leaves for a refreshing finish. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use gluten-free graham crackers if you need this cheesecake to be gluten-free.
- Ensure cream cheese and Greek yogurt are at room temperature to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Do not overmix the filling to prevent excess air bubbles, which can cause cracks.
- Arrowroot starch or cornstarch helps stabilize the filling and improve texture.
- Chilling is essential for the filling to fully set and develop its creamy consistency.
- You can swap fresh berries with your favorite fruit or a fruit compote.