Indulgent Bliss: Weight Watchers Strawberry Cheesecake Extravaganza

Introduction:

Embark on a guilt-free journey into the world of heavenly desserts with our Weight Watchers Strawberry Cheesecake. This divine creation combines the lusciousness of cheesecake with the vibrant sweetness of fresh strawberries, all within the bounds of your Weight Watchers plan. Get ready to satisfy your sweet cravings while staying on track with your wellness goals.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 12 sheets)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the Cheesecake Filling:

  • 3 (8 oz) packages reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • Zest of one lemon (optional)

For the Strawberry Topping:

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

Creating the Crust Symphony:

  1. Preheat & Prepare:
    • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.
  2. Graham Cracker Bliss:
    • In a food processor, pulse graham crackers until finely ground. Combine the crumbs with melted butter and sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating an even crust.
  3. Bake to Perfection:
    • Bake the crust for 10 minutes until set. Allow it to cool while you prepare the cheesecake filling.

Cheesecake Filling Ballet:

  1. Creamy Ensemble:
    • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar and continue beating until well combined.
  2. Yogurt Harmony:
    • Incorporate non-fat Greek yogurt into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring a creamy texture.
  3. Egg Elegance:
    • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Blend in vanilla extract and flour until the batter is velvety. Optionally, fold in lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
  4. Pouring the Perfection:
    • Pour the cheesecake batter over the graham cracker crust, ensuring an even distribution.
  5. Baking Brilliance:
    • Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the center is set, with a slight jiggle. Allow the cheesecake to cool in the oven with the door ajar for an hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Strawberry Topping Waltz:

  1. Berry Symphony:
    • Combine sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a bowl. Let them macerate for 15-20 minutes to develop a juicy, sweet topping.
  2. Top with Elegance:
    • Gently spread the strawberry topping over the chilled cheesecake just before serving.

Useful Information:

  • Experiment with different berry toppings or a mix of berries for a personalized touch.
  • To ensure a smooth cheesecake, bring cream cheese to room temperature before use.

Nutritional Information:

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/16 of cheesecake)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg
  • Sodium: 230mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 21g
  • Protein: 6g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

  • SmartPoints: 10 per slice

Conclusion:

Elevate your dessert experience with the Weight Watchers Strawberry Cheesecake, a testament to the harmonious blend of flavors in a health-conscious package. Perfect for celebrations or a delightful treat, this cheesecake invites you to savor each guilt-free bite, knowing that you’re on a journey towards balanced indulgence.