Enjoy a delightful and lighter version of cherry cheesecake with these dessert cups, perfectly adapted to fit into your Weight Watchers plan. Each cup combines creamy cheesecake flavors with a refreshing cherry topping for a satisfying treat.

Yield: 4 Servings

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (lightly crushed, for a lower-calorie option use low-fat or reduced-calorie graham crackers)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (substitute with 2 tablespoons light butter or use a butter alternative to reduce points)
  • 1 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (substitute with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit to reduce points)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup light whipped topping (for a lighter option, use a low-calorie whipped topping or Greek yogurt)
  • 1 cup cherry pie filling (use a reduced-sugar version to lower points)
  • Fresh cherries, for garnish
  • Whipped cream, for garnish (optional, use a light version or omit for fewer points)
  • Crushed cookies or wafer, for garnish (optional, use a lower-calorie version or omit)

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Crust:
  • In a small bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter (or alternative). Mix until the crumbs are well coated.
  • Press the mixture into the bottom of each serving glass or dish to form a crust layer.
  1. Make the Cream Cheese Mixture:
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the reduced-fat cream cheese until smooth.
  • Add the powdered sugar (or alternative sweetener) and vanilla extract. Continue to beat until well combined.
  1. Whip the Topping:
  • In a separate bowl, whip the light whipped topping (or Greek yogurt) until fluffy and stiff peaks form.
  • Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
  1. Assemble the Dessert Cups:
  • Layer the cream cheese mixture and cherry pie filling in the serving glasses. Start with a layer of cream cheese mixture, followed by a layer of cherry pie filling.
  • Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, ending with a layer of cherry pie filling on top.
  1. Garnish and Chill:
  • Garnish with fresh cherries and, if desired, a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed cookies or wafer.
  • Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 3g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints (per serving): 8 Points (based on using reduced-fat ingredients and a reduced-sugar cherry pie filling. Adjustments may be needed based on specific ingredient brands.)

Additional Tips:

  • Sweetener Alternatives: Using a low-calorie sweetener can significantly reduce the points value. Adjust the sweetness to taste.
  • Crust Alternatives: For an even lighter crust, consider using a graham cracker crust alternative or omit it altogether.
  • Garnish Options: Fresh cherries are low in points, but whipped cream and crushed cookies can add points. Consider omitting or using lighter versions if you’re watching your points closely.

These Weight Watchers-friendly Cherry Cheesecake Dessert Cups are a delightful treat that fits perfectly into your meal plan while still satisfying your sweet tooth. Enjoy every creamy, fruity bite! 🍒🍰