Overview
This cake is a healthier alternative to traditional cheesecake. Instead of heavy cream and large amounts of sugar, it uses:
- Greek yogurt for protein and creaminess
- Eggs for structure
- A small amount of sweetener for taste
The result is a soft, slightly tangy, creamy baked cake with far fewer calories than regular cheesecake.
Ingredients
Main Batter
- 2 cups Greek yogurt (unsweetened, thick)
- 2 large eggs
- 3–5 tablespoons honey or low-calorie sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional but improves flavor)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional but recommended)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Base (Low-Calorie Crust)
ou can skip this or use a light version:
- 1 cup crushed digestive biscuits or oat biscuits
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- OR for very low-calorie version:
- 1 cup crushed oats + 1 tablespoon honey + 1 tablespoon yogurt
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
- Preheat oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Grease a small cake pan (6–8 inch recommended).
- Line bottom with parchment paper.
Tip:
Lower temperature gives a smooth, crack-free texture.
Step 2: Make the Crust (Optional)
If using crust:
- Mix crushed biscuits with melted butter.
- Press firmly into bottom of pan.
- Chill for 10 minutes while preparing batter.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl:
- Add Greek yogurt
- Add eggs
- Add honey or sweetener
- Add vanilla extract
- Add cornstarch or flour
- Add lemon juice and zest
- Add a pinch of salt
Step 4: Mix Properly
- Whisk everything until smooth.
- Make sure there are no lumps.
- Do not overmix (too much air causes cracks).
Texture should be:
Smooth, thick, and creamy like yogurt custard.
Step 5: Pour into Pan
- Pour batter over crust (if using).
- Tap pan gently to remove air bubbles.
Step 6: Bake
- Place in preheated oven at 160°C.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes.
How to know it’s done:
- Edges are set
- Center slightly jiggles (like jelly)
- Top is lightly golden
Do not overbake or it becomes dry.
Step 7: Cooling (Very Important)
- Turn off oven.
- Leave cake inside with door slightly open for 10–15 minutes.
- Remove and cool at room temperature.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (best overnight).
Final Texture
After chilling, the cake becomes:
- Firm but soft
- Creamy like cheesecake
- Light and slightly tangy
- Not overly sweet
Optional Toppings
You can keep it simple or add light toppings:
- Fresh strawberries
- Blueberries
- Honey drizzle
- Sugar-free fruit jam
- Dark chocolate shavings (small amount)
Why This Recipe Is Low-Calorie
- Greek yogurt replaces cream cheese and heavy cream
- Minimal sweetener instead of sugar
- No heavy crust required
- High protein, low fat compared to traditional cheesecake
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking → makes cake dry and rubbery
- Using thin yogurt → makes cake watery
- Skipping chilling → texture won’t set properly
- Overmixing → causes cracks and air bubbles
Variations
1. Chocolate Version
Add:
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- Slightly more sweetener
2. Berry Yogurt Cake
Add:
- Blueberries or strawberries into batter
3. No-Crust Protein Version
- Skip base completely
- Increase Greek yogurt slightly for higher protein
4. Air Fryer Version
- Bake at 150°C for 25–30 minutes in small pan