Creamy, Sweet, and Protein-Packed
Quick Description
This high-protein blueberry cheesecake parfait is a rich, creamy, dessert-style snack made from simple ingredients like cottage cheese, cream cheese, and fresh blueberries. It has all the flavor of a classic cheesecake but without baking, heavy calories, or complicated steps. Each spoonful is smooth, lightly sweet, and bursting with blueberry freshness. Perfect for a fast breakfast, post-workout treat, or late-night sweet craving that still keeps you aligned with your high-protein goals.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 1 large or 2 small parfaits
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: Optional 15โ30 minutes for thicker texture
- Total Time: 5โ10 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 cup (225g) low-fat cottage cheese or plain Greek yogurt
- 2 oz (60g) light cream cheese, softened
- 1โ2 tablespoons honey, maple syrup, or sugar-free sweetener (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh blueberries (or thawed frozen)
-
Optional Toppings:
- Crushed graham crackers
- High-protein granola
- Chia seeds
- Extra blueberries
Instructions
1. Blend the Cheesecake Base
Add the cottage cheese (or Greek yogurt), softened cream cheese, sweetener of choice, and vanilla extract to a blender.
Blend until smooth, thick, and creamy.
This step creates the classic cheesecake flavor and texture.
2. Prepare the Blueberries
Keep blueberries whole or lightly mash with a fork to release juices.
If using frozen berries, thaw and drain excess liquid.
3. Layer the Parfait
In a glass or jar, add:
- A layer of the cheesecake mixture
- A layer of blueberries
- Repeat until the container is full
4. Add Toppings
Top with your choice of:
- Blueberries
- Crushed graham crackers
- Protein granola
- A sprinkle of chia seeds
- A drizzle of honey
5. Chill (Optional)
For a more cheesecake-like texture, refrigerate for 15โ30 minutes.
This helps the cream cheese firm up and the flavors blend.
6. Serve
Enjoy immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for later.
Additional Notes
- To make the parfait higher protein, use cottage cheese instead of yogurt and choose protein granola or add 1 tablespoon whey protein to the cheesecake base.
- Cottage cheese blends completely smooth โ no graininess if blended properly.
- Sweetness can be adjusted easily depending on whether you prefer dessert-level sweet or breakfast mild.
Dietary Info
- High Protein
- Low Sugar (if using sugar-free sweetener)
- Gluten-Free Option (avoid graham crackers or use gluten-free versions)
- Vegetarian
Protein per serving (approx):
22โ30g depending on dairy selection.
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake Parfait: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest.
- Chocolate Blueberry Parfait: Add 1 tablespoon cocoa powder to the cheesecake base.
- Crunchy Version: Add nuts, seeds, or high-protein granola between layers.
- Berry Mix Parfait: Replace blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or mixed berries.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cottage cheese โ Greek yogurt (for a lighter, less rich flavor)
- Honey โ agave, maple syrup, or sugar-free syrup
- Blueberries โ raspberries, strawberries, blackberries
- Cream cheese โ omit for lighter texture, or add 1 extra tablespoon yogurt
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast Jar: Add oats for a filling morning meal.
- Dessert Parfait: Add more cream cheese and a heavy graham cracker layer.
- Post-Workout Treat: Add 1 scoop vanilla protein powder.
- Frozen Cheesecake Cups: Freeze 1 hour for a cold, ice-cream-like treat.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Store in jars or airtight containers for up to 2 days.
- Do not freeze; texture will separate.
- For meal prep, keep toppings separate to maintain crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fat-free cottage cheese?
Yes, but it will be less creamy. Low-fat gives best texture.
Can I skip the cream cheese?
Yes, but youโll lose the classic cheesecake flavor. Increase yogurt if skipping.
Can I blend the blueberries into the cheesecake?
Yes. It becomes a purple blueberry cheesecake mousse.
How can I make it thicker?
Add 1โ2 teaspoons chia seeds and chill 20 minutes.
Optional Personal Story
This parfait is one of those recipes that feels like dessert but fuels you like a high-protein snack. Itโs perfect for days when you want something refreshing, sweet, and creamy without spending time baking or making a full cheesecake. Itโs also a favorite for busy mornings when you need something fast but still satisfying.
Call-to-Action
Save this recipe for your next protein-packed snack and share it with someone who loves simple, healthy, no-bake desserts.