Ingredients (Makes 4 Jars):
For the Crust:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tbsp melted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 1-2 tbsp powdered erythritol (or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener)
- A pinch of salt
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered erythritol (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest (optional, for a slight tang)
For the Cherry Topping:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
- 2-3 tbsp powdered erythritol
- 1/4 tsp xanthan gum (for thickening, optional)
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
- In a bowl, combine almond flour, melted butter, powdered erythritol, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Divide the crust mixture evenly among 4 small jars or serving glasses. Press it down gently to form the base layer.
2. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the heavy whipping cream, powdered erythritol, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Continue to beat until the mixture becomes fluffy and smooth.
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the crust layer in each jar.
3. Make the Cherry Topping:
- In a small saucepan, combine the cherries, powdered erythritol, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries break down and release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
- If you want a thicker consistency, sprinkle in the xanthan gum, stirring well to avoid clumps.
- Allow the cherry mixture to cool slightly, then spoon it over the cheesecake layer in each jar.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Place the jars in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1-2 hours, or until the cheesecake is firm.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: ~350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~7g net carbs
- Protein: ~5g
- Fat: ~32g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugars: ~3g (natural from cherries)
Tips:
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sweetener in each layer to your taste.
- Berry Swap: Try raspberries or strawberries if you prefer different berries for the topping.
- Storage: These jars keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making them great for meal-prep desserts!
These Keto Cherry Cheesecake Jars offer all the indulgence of cheesecake with a fruity topping, minus the carbs. Perfect for a satisfying, low-carb dessert!