Keto No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars

Introduction:

Welcome to our detailed recipe guide for Keto No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars—a delicious and elegant dessert that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the bright, tart flavor of fresh cherries. Perfect for those following a ketogenic diet, this dessert is not only low in carbohydrates but also easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet impressive treat. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore every aspect of creating these delectable cheesecake jars, from ingredient selection to detailed instructions, nutritional information, and SmartPoints® values for those on a Weight Watchers (WW) plan.

Ingredients:

To craft these Keto No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • Almond Flour: 1 cup (96 grams), for a crunchy and low-carb base
  • Unsalted Butter: 1/4 cup (60 grams), melted to bind the crust ingredients
  • Granulated Erythritol: 2 tablespoons (15 grams), a keto-friendly sweetener
  • Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon (1 gram), for added flavor

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • Cream Cheese: 8 ounces (226 grams), softened for a smooth texture
  • Greek Yogurt: 1/2 cup (120 milliliters), unsweetened and full-fat for creaminess
  • Granulated Erythritol: 1/4 cup (30 grams), adjust to taste
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters), to enhance the flavor
  • Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters), for a hint of tanginess
  • Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup (120 milliliters), whipped to soft peaks

For the Cherry Topping:

  • Fresh Cherries: 1 cup (150 grams), pitted and halved
  • Granulated Erythritol: 2 tablespoons (15 grams), for sweetening the cherry topping
  • Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters), to brighten the cherry flavor
  • Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon (3 grams), optional for thickening the topping

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Crust: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the almond flour, melted unsalted butter, granulated erythritol, and cinnamon. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  2. Form the Crust: Divide the crust mixture evenly among the bottom of your serving jars or glasses. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon to create a compact and even layer. Refrigerate while preparing the cheesecake filling.
  3. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer. Add the Greek yogurt, granulated erythritol, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Continue to beat until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Incorporate Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the light and airy texture of the whipped cream.
  5. Assemble the Cheesecake Jars: Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling on top of the chilled crust layer in each jar. Smooth the tops with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Refrigerate the jars for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly.
  6. Prepare the Cherry Topping: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh cherries, granulated erythritol, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the cherries release their juices and the mixture begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
  7. Cool the Cherry Topping: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the cherry topping cool to room temperature. The topping will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
  8. Top the Cheesecake Jars: Once the cheesecake filling has set, spoon a generous amount of the cherry topping over each jar. Spread it out evenly or swirl it gently into the cheesecake filling for a marbled effect.
  9. Chill Before Serving: Return the jars to the refrigerator and chill for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the cheesecake jars chilled. Garnish with additional fresh cherries or a sprig of mint if desired. Enjoy the creamy, tangy, and fruity layers of this delightful dessert.

Nutritional Information:

Here is the detailed nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings total):

  • Calories: 290 kcal
  • Protein: 5 grams
  • Fat: 25 grams
  • Total Carbohydrates: 14 grams
  • Fiber: 3 grams
  • Net Carbohydrates: 11 grams
  • Sugars: 7 grams

SmartPoints® Information:

For those following the Weight Watchers (WW) program, each serving of these Keto No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars has a low SmartPoints® value:

  • SmartPoints® Value: 8 points per serving

Tips for the Perfect Keto No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars:

  1. Choose the Right Sweetener: Granulated erythritol is a popular keto sweetener, but you can also use monk fruit sweetener or stevia, adjusting the quantities according to your taste preference.
  2. Achieve the Best Texture: Ensure that the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the cheesecake filling. Whip the cream until soft peaks form for a light and fluffy texture.
  3. Customize the Topping: Feel free to experiment with other low-carb fruits or berry compotes if cherries are not in season or if you prefer different flavors.
  4. Maintain Consistency: The cherry topping should be thickened to a jam-like consistency. If you prefer a thicker topping, use a bit more cornstarch or cook it for a longer period.
  5. Storage Tips: These jars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep. Just ensure to let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
  6. Make Ahead: Preparing these jars a day or two in advance can enhance the flavors and save time on the day you plan to serve them.

Conclusion:

Keto No-Bake Cherry Cheesecake Jars offer a delectable way to enjoy a classic dessert while adhering to a ketogenic lifestyle. With their creamy cheesecake base, crunchy almond flour crust, and tangy cherry topping, these jars provide a delightful mix of textures and flavors that are sure to please any palate. This detailed recipe ensures that you can create these jars with ease, providing you with a nutritious, low-carb dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these elegant treats as a guilt-free indulgence that aligns with your dietary goals while satisfying your sweet tooth.