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Protein Cheesecake Recipe

4.6 from 73 reviews

This Protein Cheesecake is a creamy, high-protein dessert combining cream cheese, Greek yogurt, and protein powder for a healthier twist on classic cheesecake. Featuring a moist baking method with a water bath to prevent cracking, this recipe yields a smooth, rich cheesecake perfect for fitness enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 24 oz cream cheese (or vegan cream cheese)
  • 2 cups Greek yogurt (or dairy free alternative)
  • 1/2 cup protein powder
  • 2/3 cup sweetener (of choice)
  • 2 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

Crust (optional)

  • Crust ideas are listed above (not specified in this recipe)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare water bath: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill a baking pan about two thirds full with water and place it on the oven’s lower rack to create a moist environment, which helps prevent cracking in the cheesecake.
  2. Prepare cream cheese and crust: Bring the cream cheese to room temperature for easier blending. Prepare your preferred crust in a 9-inch springform pan, if using.
  3. Mix filling ingredients: Use a food processor, hand mixer, or blender to beat the cream cheese, Greek yogurt, protein powder, sweetener, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Assemble and bake: Spread the cheesecake filling evenly into the prepared springform pan. Place the springform pan on the center rack above the water bath pan and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
  5. Cool in oven: After 30 minutes, turn off the oven but do not open the door. Let the cheesecake sit inside the oven for an additional five minutes to gradually cool and set.
  6. Cool at room temperature, then chill: Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool on the counter until at room temperature. Then place it in the refrigerator for at least six hours to fully firm up.

Notes

  • Using a water bath adds moisture to the oven and helps prevent the cheesecake from cracking.
  • Bringing cream cheese to room temperature ensures a smooth filling without lumps.
  • Gradual cooling inside the turned-off oven prevents sudden temperature changes, which also reduces cracking.
  • You can use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free Greek yogurt alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free.
  • Customize the crust as desired or omit it for a crustless cheesecake.
  • Protein powder choice affects flavor and texture; a neutral or vanilla-flavored powder works best.

Keywords: Protein Cheesecake, High Protein Dessert, Healthy Cheesecake, Low Fat Cheesecake, Greek Yogurt Cheesecake, Protein Powder Dessert