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The Perfect Guilt-Free Dessert You’ve Been Searching For
Imagine biting into a rich, creamy cheesecake that’s actually good for you. No complicated steps, no expensive ingredients, no guilt. Just pure, delicious satisfaction in under 30 minutes.
This 3 ingredient Greek yogurt cheesecake is everything you need in a dessert—and nothing you don’t. At Balanced Treats, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between health and indulgence. This easy protein cheesecake proves you can have both, and it’s so simple that even kitchen beginners will feel like pros.
Whether you’re craving a post-workout sweet treat or an afternoon pick-me-up, this Greek yogurt dessert delivers creamy, caramelized perfection with minimal effort and maximum nutrition.
Why This 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Cheesecake is a Perfect Balanced Treat
- Healthy: Packed with 15+ grams of protein from Greek yogurt and eggs, this mini cheesecake supports muscle recovery and keeps you satisfied. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, protein-rich snacks help maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day.
- Quick: From mixing bowl to mouth in just 20 minutes. No crust preparation, no water baths, no complicated techniques—just mix, bake, and chill.
- Affordable: Three basic ingredients you probably already have in your fridge. Each serving costs less than $5 to make, proving that eating well doesn’t require breaking the bank.
- Delicious: The caramelized coconut sugar top creates a gorgeous burnt cheesecake crust that’s Instagram-worthy and absolutely heavenly. Creamy, tangy, sweet—it’s everything a cheesecake should be.
The Magic Behind Greek Yogurt Cheesecakes
Why Greek yogurt? Traditional cheesecake relies heavily on cream cheese, which is delicious but calorie-dense and low in protein. Greek yogurt transforms this dessert into a nutritional powerhouse while maintaining that signature tangy richness.
With twice the protein of regular yogurt and a thick, creamy texture, Greek yogurt creates a cheesecake base that’s both indulgent and nourishing. The probiotics in yogurt also support gut health, making this truly a dessert you can feel good about.
The secret to the “burnt” top: That optional sprinkle of coconut sugar isn’t just for show. As it caramelizes under heat, it creates a delicate crust reminiscent of the trendy Basque burnt cheesecake—but with a fraction of the calories and effort.
Love Greek Yogurt Desserts? Try This Next!
If you’re obsessed with how simple and delicious this 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Cheesecake is, you’ll want to check out our 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Cake Recipe. It uses the same base ingredients but transforms into a light, fluffy cake that’s perfect for breakfast or snacking. Same healthy philosophy, different texture—it’s like this cheesecake’s fluffier cousin!
How to Make This 3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Cheesecake
Step 1: Prep Your Kitchen
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grab a small ramekin (about 6-8 oz capacity). The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a single-serve treat, perfect for portion control and freshness.
Step 2: The Simple Mix
In a bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup Greek yogurt and 1 egg until completely smooth. No lumps, no chunks—just a silky, pourable batter. This takes maybe 2 minutes of gentle whisking. The egg acts as a binder, giving structure to the cheesecake as it bakes.
Step 3: Pour and Top
Transfer your mixture into the prepared ramekin. If you’re using the optional 1 teaspoon coconut sugar, sprinkle it evenly over the top. This creates that signature caramelized crust that makes the difference between good and unforgettable.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your ramekin into the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for edges that are set and a center that still has a slight jiggle—like a perfectly cooked custard. Don’t overbake! The residual heat will continue cooking as it cools.
Step 5: The Chill Factor
Here’s where patience pays off. Remove from the oven (it’ll look a bit jiggly—that’s perfect!) and transfer to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time allows the cheesecake to set properly and develop its creamy texture.
The result? A protein-packed, portion-controlled dessert that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen when you really spent minutes.
Pro Tips for Cheesecake Success
Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the creamiest texture. Low-fat works but won’t be quite as rich.
Room temperature egg blends more smoothly with the yogurt, creating a more uniform texture.
Don’t skip the chill time, warm cheesecake is runny; cold cheesecake is perfection.
Experiment with toppings: Fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon after chilling can elevate your dessert game.
Common Questions About Greek Yogurt Cheesecake
Can I make this without the egg?
While the egg provides structure and helps the cheesecake set, you can experiment with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch as a binder. The texture will be slightly different—more pudding-like—but still delicious. Keep in mind this changes the protein content.
Why is my cheesecake watery?
This usually happens when you skip the chilling time or use low-fat yogurt with high water content. Always opt for thick, strained Greek yogurt and allow the full 2 hours in the fridge. If your yogurt seems runny, strain it through cheesecloth for 30 minutes before using.
Can I double or triple this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe scales beautifully. For multiple servings, use individual ramekins and bake them all at once. Baking time remains the same since each portion is still the same size. Perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
What if I don’t have coconut sugar?
Any granulated sweetener works—brown sugar, white sugar, or even a drizzle of honey after baking. For a sugar-free option, try monk fruit sweetener or simply skip it entirely. The cheesecake is naturally sweet from the yogurt’s lactose.
Can I add flavors?
Yes! Vanilla extract (1/4 tsp), lemon zest, cocoa powder (1 tbsp), or even matcha powder (1/2 tsp) can be whisked into the batter. Just keep additions minimal to maintain the proper texture and baking time.
3 Ingredient Greek Yogurt Cheesecake
Description
A creamy, protein-packed mini cheesecake made with just Greek yogurt, an egg, and optional coconut sugar. Ready in 20 minutes!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and egg until completely smooth with no lumps.
- Pour mixture into a small ramekin (6-8 oz capacity).
- If using, sprinkle coconut sugar evenly over the top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are set but center still jiggles slightly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Transfer to refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Enjoy cold, straight from the ramekin or inverted onto a plate!
Notes
- Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Substitutions: Swap coconut sugar for maple syrup, honey, or leave it plain for a sugar-free version.
- Variations: Add 1/4 tsp vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for extra flavor dimension.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
Serving Size 1 cheesecake
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 180kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5g8%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Cholesterol 190mg64%
- Sodium 80mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 18g6%
- Sugars 13g
- Protein 16g32%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Your New Go-To Dessert
This 3 ingredient Greek yogurt cheesecake isn’t just a recipe—it’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t mean sacrificing the foods you love. With minimal ingredients, maximum protein, and a taste that rivals any traditional cheesecake, this is the dessert that finally lets you have your cake and eat it too.
Perfect for meal preppers, busy students, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone who simply wants a better-for-you treat without the fuss, this easy protein cheesecake has earned its spot in your regular rotation.
Ready to transform your dessert game?