PROTEIN STRAWBERRY CHEESECAKE CUPS

No-Bake High-Protein Dessert Ready in Under 30 Minutes

KEY INFO:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 20 minutes to 1 hour
Total Time: 30-70 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-free option available
Protein per serving: 15-20g

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

Food processor or blender
4 serving cups or mason jars
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing bowl
Alternative: Hand mixer instead of food processor

INGREDIENTS:

Base Layer:

1 cup (120g) graham cracker crumbs [or gluten-free crackers]
3 tbsp (45ml) melted coconut oil
1 tbsp (15g) honey

Protein Cheesecake Layer:

1 cup (250g) low-fat cottage cheese
1 cup (245g) Greek yogurt (2%)
2 scoops (60g) vanilla whey protein powder
2 tbsp (30ml) honey or maple syrup
1 tsp (5ml) vanilla extract

Topping:

2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, sliced
Optional: protein whipped cream, granola

METHOD:

Combine graham cracker crumbs, coconut oil, and honey in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of serving cups.
Chill crust for 10 minutes in freezer
Blend cottage cheese until completely smooth (no lumps)
Add Greek yogurt, protein powder, honey, and vanilla to blender. Mix until creamy.
Layer protein mixture over chilled crust
Top with sliced strawberries
Chill for minimum 20 minutes until set

CRUCIAL TIPS:

Blend cottage cheese thoroughly to avoid graininess
Don’t skip initial crust chilling – prevents mixing with filling
Use room temperature cream cheese for smoothest results

STORAGE:

Keep refrigerated up to 4 days
Do not freeze
Best consumed within 48 hours

SCALING:

Recipe doubles easily
Use larger containers for bigger portions
Adjust protein powder to taste

VARIATIONS:

Vegan: Use plant-based protein and yogurt
Gluten-free: Switch to GF graham crackers
Berry swap: Try raspberries or blueberries
Chocolate: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to filling

COMMON MISTAKES:

Over-sweetening (protein powder adds sweetness)
Under-blending cottage cheese
Not chilling long enough

Each cup provides a perfect balance of protein and indulgence, making it ideal for post-workout treats or healthy dessert options.