Ingredients
For the cheesecake mixture
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1 cup (225 g) plain nonfat Greek yogurt
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1 cup (225 g) low-fat or fat-free cottage cheese
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1 container (8 oz / 226 g) light whipped topping, thawed
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1 package (1 oz / 28 g) sugar-free instant cheesecake pudding mix
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½ cup (120 ml) fat-free milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the berries
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½ cup fresh strawberries, chopped
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½ cup fresh blueberries
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½ cup mixed berries, such as raspberries and blackberries
For topping
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¼ cup graham cracker crumbs
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A few extra fresh berries
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Optional light whipped topping
Instructions
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Prepare the cottage cheese: Add cottage cheese to a blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
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Mix the pudding: In a large bowl, whisk together the cheesecake pudding mix and cold fat-free milk for about 1–2 minutes until it begins to thicken.
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Add the creamy ingredients: Add the blended cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
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Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold the light whipped topping into the cheesecake mixture. Avoid overmixing to keep the dessert fluffy.
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Prepare the fruit: Wash and thoroughly dry the strawberries, blueberries, and mixed berries. Chop the strawberries into small pieces.
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Add the berries: Gently fold the prepared fruit into the cheesecake mixture, reserving a little for decoration.
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Fill the cups: Divide the mixture evenly among six individual dessert cups.
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Add the topping: Sprinkle graham cracker crumbs over each cup and decorate with the reserved berries.
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Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until cold and set.
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Serve: Enjoy chilled as a creamy, fruity cheesecake-inspired dessert.
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving, based on 6 cups with graham cracker crumbs.
| Nutrient | Approximate amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150–190 kcal |
| Protein | 10–14 g |
| Carbohydrates | 17–23 g |
| Total fat | 3–6 g |
| Saturated fat | 1–3 g |
| Fiber | 2–3 g |
| Sugar | 7–11 g |
| Sodium | 250–400 mg |
Nutrition varies with the brands of yogurt, cottage cheese, whipped topping, and pudding mix. Although this dessert contains protein-rich ingredients, the exact protein content depends on the products used.
Nut & Allergen Information
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Peanuts and tree nuts: Not intentionally included in the basic recipe.
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Dairy: Contains Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, milk, and whipped topping.
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Wheat/gluten: Graham cracker crumbs usually contain wheat.
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Possible soy: Some whipped toppings and pudding mixes may contain soy ingredients.
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Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free cheesecake pudding mix and gluten-free graham cracker crumbs.
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Dairy-free option: Use suitable dairy-free yogurt, cottage cheese alternatives, milk, and whipped topping.
Always check product labels and cross-contact warnings, especially when preparing this dessert for someone with allergies.
Q/S — Questions & Tips
Q: Can I use regular cheesecake pudding mix?
Yes. Regular instant cheesecake pudding works, but it may increase the sugar and calorie content.
Q: Can I skip the cottage cheese?
Yes. Replace it with an equal amount of Greek yogurt. The texture and protein content will change slightly.
Q: Can I use frozen berries?
Yes. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before mixing so the dessert does not become watery.
Q: How can I make it sweeter?
Add 1–2 tablespoons of honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener. Taste before adding because the pudding mix already provides sweetness.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the cups a day ahead and refrigerate. Add the graham cracker crumbs just before serving so they stay crunchy.
Q: How do I make the mixture extra smooth?
Blend the cottage cheese thoroughly before adding it. This removes the curds and creates a creamy cheesecake-like texture.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
Keep covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2–3 days. Do not leave the dairy-based dessert at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Q: Can I freeze these cups?
Freezing is not recommended for the best texture because the yogurt and whipped topping may separate after thawing.
Chef’s tip: For beautiful individual dessert cups, layer the cheesecake mixture with a few berries and graham cracker crumbs, then finish with extra fruit on top.