A guilt-free indulgence that feels like a hug in dessert form.
Why This Cheesecake Changed My Life
I used to think desserts had to be a “cheat.” That sweet meant surrender. That something creamy, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth had to come with guilt.
Then I met this cheesecake.
It’s not just a dessert—it’s a moment. A soft, cloud-like, subtly tangy dream that melts on your tongue and reminds you: you don’t need to give up joy to eat well.
This recipe is what I reach for when I want something that:
- Feels indulgent
- Doesn’t spike blood sugar
- Packs actual protein to keep me full
- Satisfies emotional cravings without crashing later
And the best part?
It only takes one bowl, no crust, and no flour. Just wholesome protein, healthy fats, and feel-good ingredients whipped into the fluffiest cheesecake you’ve ever had.
Let’s get into it.
Full Ingredient Breakdown + Why It Works
Here’s what you need and why every ingredient matters:
Low-Fat Cream Cheese (1 cup / 225g)
The creamy base that gives body and classic cheesecake richness—without too much fat. We use low-fat to keep it light, but still thick and indulgent.
🥄 Greek Yogurt (1 cup / 250g, 2% or 0%)
Adds tang and protein! Greek yogurt makes this cheesecake lighter in texture and boosts protein content. Bonus: it keeps things moist without needing a crust or heavy cream.
Eggs, Separated (3 large)
Yolks add richness.
Whipped whites = airy structure.
Separating and folding them in creates that soufflé-style lift without flour.
Vanilla Protein Powder (2 scoops)
This is the magic! You get structure and extra creaminess, while sneaking in 30+ grams of protein. Use a clean, non-chalky vanilla whey isolate for best texture.
Almond Flour (3 tbsp)
Just enough to bind the mix and add a hint of nuttiness. Keeps it low-carb and gluten-free.
Erythritol or Monk Fruit (2 tbsp)
Keeps it sweet and keto-friendly. Adjust to taste! Use powdered if you want a smoother texture.
Lemon Juice (1 tsp) + Optional Zest
Brightens the whole dish. Adds that subtle tang that balances out the creamy richness.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp)
Enhances the dessert flavor, especially when paired with lemon.
Pinch of Salt
Always necessary to balance the sweet and make the flavors pop.
Step-by-Step Instructions (With Tips!)
1. Preheat + Prep
- Preheat oven to 160°C / 320°F
- Line a round springform pan with parchment paper (bottom + sides)
- Optional but ideal: wrap the outside in foil so water doesn’t seep in during the water bath (bain-marie)
2. Separate the Eggs
- Yolks go into the base mixture
- Whites go into a clean, dry bowl for whipping
Tip: Add a tiny pinch of salt or cream of tartar to help whites whip faster.
3. Make the Cheesecake Base
In a large bowl:
- Beat cream cheese until smooth
- Add Greek yogurt, yolks, sweetener, lemon juice, zest, vanilla, protein powder, and almond flour
- Mix until silky
☁️ 4. Whip the Egg Whites
Using an electric mixer:
- Whip until stiff peaks form (should stand up without collapsing)
- Don’t over-whip or it’ll be hard to fold!
5. Fold Gently
- Add 1/3 of the egg whites into the base mixture, stir to lighten
- Fold in the rest gently with a spatula—DON’T overmix!
The goal: keep the air in, for maximum fluff.
6. Pour + Prepare Water Bath
- Pour the batter into the lined pan
- Place the pan inside a larger baking tray
- Carefully add hot water to the outer tray until it comes halfway up the sides
7. Bake + Rest
- Bake at 160°C for 35–40 minutes
- Center should be slightly jiggly, edges lightly golden
- Turn off oven, crack the door open, and let it rest inside for 10 mins
This prevents sudden collapse.
8. Cool + Chill
- Cool to room temp
- Chill in fridge at least 3 hours (overnight = best texture)
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered erythritol for that bakery look
- Add fresh mint or basil for color and contrast
- Top with:
- Strawberries or raspberries (low-carb)
- Sugar-free lemon glaze
- Dollop of Greek yogurt and crushed almonds
Substitutions + Variations
- No Protein Powder?
Replace with 2 tbsp almond flour + 1 extra egg white (texture will be slightly less structured) - Vegan Version?
Use dairy-free cream cheese + coconut yogurt
Swap egg whites with aquafaba, and use vegan protein - Chocolate Version?
Use chocolate whey + add 1 tsp cocoa powder + 1 tbsp almond milk - Crust Version?
Press a crust of almond flour + butter + sweetener into the pan before pouring batter
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Slice)
(Approximate, varies by brand)
- Calories: 185
- Protein: 15–18g
- Carbs: 3–5g net
- Fat: 8–10g
Perfect for:
✅ Post-workout dessert
✅ Keto snack
✅ PMS cravings without regret
✅ “Just one bite” that turns into “just one slice” — and that’s okay!
Storage + Leftovers
- Store in airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days
- Best eaten chilled or room temp
- Don’t freeze — texture will suffer
Backstory: How This Recipe Saved My Sweet Tooth
I started experimenting with protein desserts out of desperation.
I was healing from binge eating, but I didn’t want to feel punished. I wanted something I could look forward to. Something that didn’t feel “diet-y,” but also didn’t make me feel bloated or ashamed afterward.
This cheesecake was born on a rainy Sunday. I whipped the egg whites like a madwoman. I didn’t expect much. But when I opened the oven and saw the puffed-up top… when I sliced into the cool, cloud-like center… when I took that first creamy, lemon-kissed bite?
I cried.
This recipe became my ritual. My “you got through the week” celebration. My PMS emergency. My “I don’t need to eat a whole cake to feel better” proof.
And now, it’s yours.
❓FAQ Corner
Q: Can I make this in cupcake form?
Yes! Bake in lined muffin tins (water bath optional) for 15–18 minutes. Mini cloud cheesecakes = portion perfection.
Q: It cracked on top! What went wrong?
Totally normal—soufflé-style cakes puff and settle. To prevent, don’t overbake, and cool slowly in oven with door cracked.
Q: Can I make it sweeter?
Absolutely—taste the batter and adjust your sweetener before folding in egg whites.
Q: Is it okay to eat for breakfast?
Not only okay—highly recommended. One slice + coffee = a protein-packed, blood-sugar-steadying start to your day.