Easy High Protein Strawberry Cheesecake Jar

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Chill Time (Optional): 30 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes (40 minutes with chilling)
Recipe Intensity: Easy
Servings: 1 generous serving

Tired of missing out on dessert while chasing your fitness goals? This single-serving Strawberry Cheesecake Jar is here to change the game. It’s incredibly quick to make, requires zero baking, and is packed with high-quality protein to keep you full and satisfied. With layers of creamy “cheesecake” filling, sweet strawberry compote, and a crunchy graham cracker base, it feels indulgent without the guilt. It’s the perfect healthy meal prep dessert for busy weekdays!

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 1/2 cup (113g) plain Greek yogurt (2% or full-fat for creamiest texture)

• 2 oz (55g) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened to room temperature

• 1 scoop (30-35g) vanilla or unflavored whey protein powder

• 1-2 tablespoons milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat)

• 1 tablespoon erythritol or maple syrup (or sweetener of choice, to taste)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• A tiny pinch of salt

For the Graham Cracker Layer:

• 1 full sheet (or 2-3 tablespoons crushed) graham cracker

• 1/2 teaspoon melted butter or coconut oil (optional, for binding)

For the Strawberry Compote:

• 1/4 cup (about 4-5) fresh strawberries, diced

• 1 teaspoon water or lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)

For Topping:

• 1-2 fresh strawberries, sliced

• A few graham cracker crumbs

Equipment

• Small mixing bowl

• Whisk or electric hand mixer

• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl

• Serving jar or glass (8-12 oz size is perfect)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberry Compote

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced strawberries and water or lemon juice. Cook for 3-5 minutes, mashing the strawberries gently with a spoon or fork as they soften, until they break down into a saucy consistency. Stir in the optional sweetener if your strawberries are tart. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. *(Quick Method: Combine ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 45-60 seconds, until bubbly and soft. Mash and let cool.)*

2. Create the Graham Cracker Base

Place the graham cracker sheet in a zip-top bag and crush it with a rolling pin or the bottom of a glass until you have fine crumbs. Alternatively, you can pulse it in a small food processor. For a more authentic, buttery crust, mix the crumbs with the melted butter or coconut oil. This helps it stick together.

3. Make the High-Protein Cheesecake Filling

In your small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt. Using a whisk or an electric hand mixer on low, beat them together until completely smooth and no lumps of cream cheese remain. Add the protein powder, sweetener, vanilla extract, and pinch of salt. Mix again until a thick, uniform batter forms. If the mixture is too thick to scoop easily, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, creamy, but still pipeable consistency.

4. Assemble the Jar

Now for the fun part—layering!

• Layer 1: Place half of the graham cracker crumbs at the bottom of your jar or glass.

• Layer 2: Spoon or pipe half of the cheesecake filling over the crumbs.

• Layer 3: Drizzle half of the slightly cooled strawberry compote over the filling.

• Layer 4: Repeat the layers with the remaining graham cracker crumbs, cheesecake filling, and strawberry compote.

5. Final Touches and Serving

Top your beautiful creation with fresh strawberry slices and a sprinkle of leftover graham cracker crumbs. You can enjoy it immediately for a softer, parfait-like texture. For a firmer, more cheesecake-like experience that allows the flavors to meld, cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Notes & Tips for Success

• Protein Powder Note: The type of protein powder you use is key. Whey protein isolate blends the smoothest. Casein or vegan blends (like pea or brown rice protein) can be used but may result in a thicker, sometimes gummier texture. You may need to adjust the amount of milk.

• Cream Cheese Softening: For a lump-free filling, it is essential that your cream cheese is at room temperature. Take it out of the fridge 30-60 minutes before you start.

• No-Cook Strawberry Option: For a completely raw version, simply dice the strawberries and mix them with a teaspoon of chia seeds and a touch of sweetener. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to naturally thicken.

• Meal Prep: This recipe is easily doubled or tripled to make jars for the week. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The graham cracker layer will soften over time but will still be delicious.

Nutrition Information

*Estimated nutritional values are calculated using 2% Greek yogurt, sugar-free syrup, and without optional butter.*

• Calories: ~350 kcal

• Protein: ~35g

• Carbohydrates: ~25g

• Fat: ~12g

• Fiber: ~2g

• Sugar: ~15g (Includes natural sugars from yogurt and strawberries)

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use.