Mediterranean Diet-Friendly Fluffy Cheesecake Recipe
Description:
This light and airy cheesecake is inspired by the Mediterranean diet, using wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt, ricotta, and extra-virgin olive oil. Unlike traditional cheesecakes, this version is lower in sugar and avoids processed ingredients, making it a healthier dessert choice.
Ingredients:
For the Base (Optional):
- ½ cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
For the Cake:
- 6 large eggs (separated)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain, full-fat or 2%)
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup whole wheat flour or almond flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of sea salt
For Topping (Optional):
- Powdered brown sugar (for dusting)
- Fresh berries
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base (if using):
- Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).
- Mix almond flour, honey, and olive oil until it forms a dough-like consistency.
- Press it into a greased springform pan and bake for 8-10 minutes. Let it cool.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk egg yolks, Greek yogurt, ricotta cheese, olive oil, honey, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Sift in the whole wheat or almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
3. Whip Egg Whites:
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
4. Bake the Cheesecake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake in a water bath (place the pan inside a larger pan filled with hot water) at 320°F (160°C) for 50-60 minutes or until golden and set.
- Let it cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.
5. Serve:
- Dust with powdered brown sugar and top with fresh berries before serving.
Notes & Tips:
✔️ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps create a smooth batter.
✔️ Water Bath is Essential – It ensures an even, gentle bake and prevents cracks.
✔️ Adjust Sweetness – Add more or less honey/maple syrup based on your preference.
✔️ Chill Before Serving – The texture improves after chilling for a few hours.
Servings:
- Makes 8-10 servings
Nutritional Info (Per Serving):
- Calories: 180-220 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Healthy Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Health Benefits:
🌿 Rich in Protein – Greek yogurt and ricotta provide high-quality protein.
🌿 Heart-Healthy Fats – Extra-virgin olive oil and almond flour support cardiovascular health.
🌿 Lower in Sugar – Uses natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
🌿 Supports Digestion – Greek yogurt contains probiotics for gut health.
Q&A:
❓ Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap Greek yogurt and ricotta with coconut yogurt and dairy-free cream cheese.
❓ How long does it last?
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
❓ Can I use a different sweetener?
Absolutely! Try stevia or date syrup for a refined sugar-free version.
This cheesecake is a light, fluffy, and guilt-free dessert that perfectly aligns with a Mediterranean lifestyle. Enjoy! 😊