Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake

Enjoy a delightful and guilt-free treat with these Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecakes. They feature a creamy cheesecake filling infused with fresh raspberries, all nestled in a light graham cracker crust. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the extra calories, these mini cheesecakes are ideal for parties, family gatherings, or a personal indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Guilt-Free Indulgence: These mini cheesecakes allow you to enjoy dessert without the burden of excessive calories.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delicious treats.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and fresh raspberries provides a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Perfect Portions: Mini cheesecakes are great for portion control, making them ideal for any occasion.
• Make Ahead: Prepare these desserts in advance for stress-free entertaining or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This is crucial for shaping your mini cheesecakes perfectly.
• Electric mixer: Ensures the cream cheese mixture is smooth and creamy, creating an ideal texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect flavor balance in your dessert.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 ounces low-fat cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup honey or agave syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)

Pin

How to Make Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, cocoa powder, honey or agave syrup, and melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set. Remove from oven and let cool.

Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, honey or agave syrup, vanilla extract, and egg. Beat until fully combined and creamy.

Step 4: Add Raspberries

Gently fold in the fresh raspberries into the cheesecake mixture, being careful not to mash them too much.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Spoon the cheesecake filling over the cooled crusts in the muffin tin. Smooth the tops if necessary. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the centers are set but still slightly jiggly.

Step 6: Cool and Chill

Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set completely.

Step 7: Serve

Once chilled, remove the cheesecakes from the muffin tin. Garnish with extra fresh raspberries before serving. Enjoy your delicious low calorie mini raspberry cheesecakes!

How to Serve Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake

Serving low calorie mini raspberry cheesecake can be as delightful as making them. These mini desserts are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion.

Individual Dessert Cups

• Mini Glasses: Serve the cheesecakes in small glass bowls or jars for a chic presentation.
• Mason Jars: Layer the cheesecake in mason jars for easy transport and a rustic look.

Garnished with Fresh Fruits

• Raspberry Topping: Add a few fresh raspberries on top for an extra burst of flavor.
• Mint Leaves: Garnish with mint leaves to give a refreshing touch and enhance visual appeal.

Drizzled Sauces

• Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce complements the raspberry flavor beautifully.
• Honey Drizzle: For added sweetness, drizzle some honey over the cheesecakes before serving.

How to Perfect Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake

Perfecting your low calorie mini raspberry cheesecake is key to impressing your guests. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cheesecakes turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese and egg are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the texture light and airy; overmixing can make them dense.
• Cool Gradually: Allow the cheesecakes to cool slowly in the oven after baking to prevent cracking.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate for at least two hours for the best set and flavor development.

Pin

Best Side Dishes for Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake

Pairing dishes with your low calorie mini raspberry cheesecake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent side dish options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits balances sweetness with freshness, making it a light addition.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a protein-packed complement.
3. Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream can add richness without overwhelming flavors.
4. Berry Compote: Serve warm berry compote on the side for those who enjoy extra fruitiness.
5. Nut Granola Bars: These bars provide crunch and energy, perfect for snacking alongside your cheesecake.
6. Herbed Tea Infusion: A cup of herbal tea offers a soothing contrast to the creamy texture of the dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making low calorie mini raspberry cheesecakes can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Cream Cheese Temperature: Using cold cream cheese can lead to lumps in your filling. Always ensure it is softened at room temperature before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can cause air bubbles, leading to cracks during baking. Mix until just combined and smooth for the best results.
• Not Adjusting Sweetness: Every palate is different. Taste your cheesecake mixture before baking and adjust the sweetness with honey or agave syrup if needed.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Allowing the cheesecakes to cool properly prevents them from being too soft. Be sure to chill them in the refrigerator as instructed.
• Not Using Fresh Raspberries: Frozen raspberries can make the batter watery. Opt for fresh raspberries for a better texture and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover mini cheesecakes in an airtight container.
• item They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake

• item For longer storage, freeze mini cheesecakes in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
• item They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings for about 15-20 seconds until slightly warm.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler to gently warm the cheesecakes without direct heat.

Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this a low calorie dessert?

The use of low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creamy texture and flavor.

Can I customize my Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake?

Absolutely! You can swap raspberries with other fruits like strawberries or blueberries or add chocolate chips for variety.

How do I know when my cheesecakes are done?

The centers should be set but still slightly jiggly when you take them out of the oven. They will firm up as they cool.

How do I serve Low Calorie Mini Raspberry Cheesecake?

Garnish with extra fresh raspberries or a drizzle of honey for added appeal when serving.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! These mini cheesecakes are perfect for making ahead. Just chill them for at least two hours before serving.

Final Thoughts

These low calorie mini raspberry cheesecakes are not only delightful but also offer versatility in flavors and toppings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving something sweet, these individual desserts are an excellent choice. Feel free to customize them with your favorite fruits or toppings!