Light & Lovely Cherry Cheesecake Jars (WW-Friendly)
Looking for a delicious dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth without blowing your SmartPoints budget? These Cherry Cheesecake Jars are the perfect blend of creamy indulgence and smart portion control. With a lighter take on classic cheesecake and a naturally sweet cherry topping, these single-serve jars are perfect for parties, picnics, or a weekday treat you can prep ahead.
Prep & Bake Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Chill Time: 4+ hours or overnight
Total Time: About 45 minutes + chill
Ingredients
For the Lightened Graham Cracker Crust:
1 cup light graham cracker crumbs
2 tbsp light butter, melted (or butter substitute)
1 tbsp zero-calorie sweetener (like monk fruit or stevia)
For the Cheesecake Filling:
2 (8 oz) blocks reduced-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel works great)
½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
½ cup zero-calorie sweetener
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 tbsp all-purpose flour or cornstarch (gluten-free option)
For the Cherry Topping:
2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, halved and pitted
2 tbsp zero-calorie sweetener (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp cornstarch
¼ cup water
Optional Garnish:
Light or fat-free whipped topping
Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted light butter, and sweetener. Stir until crumbly and well combined. Press a tablespoon of crust into the bottom of each small jar or ramekin. Set aside. - Preheat the Oven:
Set oven to 325°F (163°C). - Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add in yogurt, sweetener, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy.
Mix in eggs, one at a time. Finally, stir in the flour or cornstarch. - Assemble & Bake:
Spoon the cheesecake mixture over each crust, filling the jars about ¾ full. Place jars on a baking tray and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until edges are set and centers slightly jiggle.
Let cool to room temperature, then chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. - Make the Cherry Topping:
In a small saucepan, combine cherries, sweetener, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat until the sauce thickens and cherries soften (about 5–6 minutes). Let cool completely. - Top & Chill Again (Optional):
Spoon cherry topping over each cooled cheesecake jar. Cover and chill until ready to serve. - Garnish & Enjoy:
Top with a swirl of light whipped topping and a sprig of mint if you’re feeling fancy. Dig in!
WW-Friendly Tips
SmartPoints (per jar): Approx. 4–6 points, depending on the specific brands and portion size
Use fat-free cream cheese or Greek yogurt to cut down on points further
Try a crustless version for an ultra-light cheesecake option
Use a sugar-free cherry pie filling if you’re short on time
Serving Ideas
Serve in mini mason jars, clear glasses, or reusable dessert cups
Great for baby showers, holiday dessert tables, or portion-controlled meal prep
Make a variety — sub in blueberries or strawberries for a berry mix!
Storage
Store jars covered in the fridge for up to 5 days
Freeze without cherry topping for up to 1 month, then thaw and top before serving
