Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Cups: A Weight Watchers-Friendly Delight
Introduction:
Discover a delightful twist on classic dessert favorites with our Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Cups. These individual-sized treats combine the creamy richness of cheesecake with the sweet and spiced flavors of peach cobbler, all nestled in a convenient cup-sized serving. Perfect for any occasion, these cups are designed to fit seamlessly into your Weight Watchers (WW) plan while satisfying your dessert cravings. Detailed instructions, nutritional information, and tips follow to ensure you achieve a perfectly balanced and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (use a low-point brand or make your own from low-calorie graham crackers)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (substitute with a low-calorie sweetener if desired)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for binding the crust ingredients)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (opt for reduced-fat cream cheese to lower the SmartPoints)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (use a WW-friendly sweetener to reduce points)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for flavor)
- 1 large egg (for structure)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (use reduced-fat sour cream to keep the points low)
For the Peach Cobbler Topping:
- 2 ripe peaches, peeled and diced (fresh or frozen peaches work well)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (use a WW-friendly sweetener or reduce the amount for fewer points)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (adds flavor without adding points)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (for additional spice)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or use a light butter substitute)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for the crumbly topping, use a WW-friendly flour or reduce amount if needed)
- 1/4 cup rolled oats (optional) (for extra texture, use sparingly to manage points)
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream (use a light or sugar-free version to keep points low)
- A sprinkle of cinnamon (for added flavor without extra points)
Nutritional Information:
Per Serving (assuming 12 servings):
- Calories: 190
- Total Carbohydrates: 26g
- Net Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
Weight Watchers SmartPoints:
- Freestyle: 6 points per cup
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the cheesecake cups to perfection.
- Prepare the Muffin Tin:
- Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This step ensures easy removal of the cheesecake cups once baked and prevents sticking.
- Make the Crust:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar (or an equivalent low-calorie sweetener), and 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press approximately 1 tablespoon of this mixture into the bottom of each cupcake liner. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to pack it down firmly.
- Bake the crusts in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for the best results.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 large egg, and 1/4 cup of sour cream. Continue to beat until fully combined and the mixture is creamy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Cups:
- Spoon the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crusts, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Peach Cobbler Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine 2 diced peaches, 1/4 cup of brown sugar (or a WW-friendly sweetener), 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup of rolled oats (if using).
- Mix until the peaches are well coated and the topping has a crumbly texture.
- Add the Topping:
- Spoon a generous amount of the peach mixture over the cheesecake layer in each cup. Distribute the topping evenly across all the cups.
- Bake the Cheesecake Cups:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the cobbler topping is golden brown. Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan; the centers should be slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Cool and Chill:
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the cheesecake cups to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to set.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Before serving, top each cheesecake cup with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This adds a touch of indulgence while keeping the points in check.
Useful Tips:
- Peach Preparation: For best results, use ripe peaches for natural sweetness and optimal flavor. If peaches are not in season, frozen peaches can be a good alternative.
- Sweetener Substitution: Adjust the amount of granulated sugar and brown sugar to fit your WW plan. Opt for low-calorie sweeteners to reduce the SmartPoints further if desired.
- Crust Alternatives: To further reduce points, consider using a lower-calorie graham cracker or a different type of low-point crust.
Variations:
- Berry Cobbler: Substitute the peaches with other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a different fruit flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of chopped nuts to the cobbler topping for added crunch and nutrition, adjusting the points accordingly.
Health Benefits:
- Peaches: Rich in vitamins A and C, peaches provide a refreshing and nutritious fruit option. They also contain antioxidants and dietary fiber.
- Reduced-Fat Ingredients: Using reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream helps lower the overall fat content and SmartPoints, making these cheesecake cups a healthier option.
Serving Suggestions:
- Occasions: Ideal for serving at parties, potlucks, or as a special family treat. These cheesecake cups are easy to transport and serve.
- Pairings: Enjoy as a standalone dessert or alongside a fresh fruit salad for a well-rounded, low-point treat.
Conclusion:
Our Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Cups offer a delicious blend of creamy cheesecake, sweet peaches, and a buttery cobbler topping, all while adhering to Weight Watchers guidelines. With detailed instructions and a focus on low-point ingredients, these cups are a perfect choice for those seeking a satisfying yet health-conscious dessert. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the convenience of a dessert that fits perfectly into your WW plan.
Additional Notes:
- Preparation Time: Allow for approximately 20 minutes of preparation time, with an additional 20-25 minutes for baking and 2 hours of chilling time.
- Ingredient Quality: Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of the cheesecake cups.
With these comprehensive instructions and tips, you can create Peach Cobbler Cheesecake Cups that are both delightful and WW-friendly, making them a favorite addition to your low-point dessert repertoire.