High Protein Cheesecake Jars Recipe

High Protein Cheesecake Jars: A Healthy, Portable Dessert

A creamy, satisfying dessert doesn’t have to derail your nutrition goals. High protein cheesecake jars transform classic cheesecake into a portion-controlled, protein-packed treat you can enjoy after workouts, as a snack, or as a light dessert. These jars layer a crunchy base, a velvety high-protein filling, and optional fresh toppings for a balanced bite every time. If you like pairing desserts with recovery drinks, consider trying one of these 8 high-protein smoothie recipes for a complete post-workout combo.

What you’ll love about these jars:

Easy to customize flavors and toppings
Portable and portion-controlled
High in protein while keeping sugars reasonable

Ingredients (makes 4 jars)

12 oz (340 g) low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt-based cream cheese alternative
1 cup (240 g) plain Greek yogurt (0% or 2%)
1/3 cup (30–40 g) vanilla or unflavored whey or plant protein powder
1/4 cup (60 ml) honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
2 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
1 1/2 cups (150 g) crushed graham crackers or baked oats for base
3 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil (to bind crust)
Optional toppings: fresh berries, chopped nuts, dark chocolate shavings, nut butter drizzle

Equipment: 4 small jars (4–6 oz each), mixing bowls, spatula, electric mixer (or strong whisk).

Method

Prepare the crust: Mix crushed graham crackers (or baked oats) with melted butter until evenly moistened. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons into each jar and press down to form a compact layer. Chill in the fridge while you make the filling.
Make the filling: In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add Greek yogurt, protein powder, honey, vanilla, and lemon zest. Beat until fully combined and fluffy. Taste and adjust sweetness or vanilla as desired.
Assemble: Divide the filling evenly among the jars, smoothing the top with a spatula. Add optional a second thin layer of crust in between filling layers if you prefer more crunch.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up (overnight is best for texture).
Serve: Top with fresh berries, nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter right before serving.

Variations & Flavor Ideas

Berry Swirl: Gently fold 1/2 cup of pureed strawberries or raspberries into half the filling to create a pink swirl.
Chocolate Protein: Replace 2–3 tablespoons of protein powder with cacao powder and add a touch more sweetener.
Lemon Cheesecake: Increase lemon zest and add 1–2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice for a tangy lift.
No-Bake Oat Crust: Use baked oat crumbs for a heartier, fiber-rich crust instead of graham crackers.

Nutrition Tips

Adjust protein source based on goals: whey for quick absorption, casein or Greek yogurt for slower-release protein.
Control sugar by using a lower amount of honey or a sugar-free sweetener, and increase vanilla or lemon for flavor balance.
Boost healthy fats by stirring in a tablespoon of almond butter into the filling or by topping with chopped nuts.

Serving, Pairings & Make-Ahead

These jars are perfect for meal prep: assemble and chill up to 3 days in advance. They also travel well — seal jars tightly for on-the-go treats. If you’re hosting a summer BBQ, they make an impressive, lighter dessert option that complements grilled mains; check ideas for pairing desserts with other protein-forward options like these high-protein foods for grilling.

To serve:

Bring jars to the table chilled and finish with a fresh topping so textures remain crisp.
For a softer, mousse-like consistency, let jars sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before eating.

Troubleshooting & Tips

Lumpy filling? Make sure cream cheese is softened to room temperature before whipping.
Filling too thin? Add 1–2 tablespoons more protein powder or reduce yogurt slightly.
Crust too soft? Bake crushed oats briefly or press crust more firmly and chill longer.

Conclusion

If you want a ready-made reference to the recipe concept and inspiration behind these jars, take a look at this detailed version: High Protein Cheesecake Jars – Carmy – Easy Healthy-ish Recipes.

High Protein Cheesecake Jars Recipe Read More »

cheesecake jars, easy dessert recipe, healthy cheesecake, high protein dessert, protein-packed snacks

High protein chocolate chia seed pudding topped with fresh berries in a bowl

High Protein Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding That’s Easy To Make!

High-Protein Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding That’s Easy to Make!

Craving something rich, chocolatey, and satisfying that also helps you hit your protein goals? This high-protein chocolate chia seed pudding is creamy, simple, and ready in minutes (plus it benefits from a short chill). It’s a great snack, breakfast, or dessert option for busy days and makes portioning and meal prep effortless. If you want tips on how to boost protein across your day, see this 10 easy ways to increase your protein intake guide for practical ideas.

Why this pudding is high-protein

Chia seeds provide fiber, omega-3s, and a modest amount of protein, but the real protein boost comes from adding a concentrated protein source—whey, pea, or collagen peptides—together with protein-rich milk or yogurt. The result is a treat that tastes indulgent but supports muscle recovery and satiety.

Ingredients (serves 2)

4 tablespoons chia seeds
1 1/2 cups milk of choice (dairy, soy, or fortified oat milk for added protein)
1 scoop (about 25–30 g) chocolate or unflavored protein powder
1–2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for deeper chocolate flavor)
1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: sliced banana, berries, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or a dollop of yogurt

Simple method

In a bowl or jar, whisk together the milk, protein powder, cocoa powder (if using), sweetener, vanilla, and salt until smooth and no lumps remain.
Stir in the chia seeds so they are evenly distributed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Stir once after 10–15 minutes to break up any clumps, then leave to thicken.
Before serving, give the pudding a good stir. Add a splash of milk if you prefer a looser texture. Top with fruit, nuts, or yogurt.

Tip: Use a blender or shaker bottle to mix the liquid and protein powder first for a smoother final texture.

Protein and nutrition notes

Protein content varies by milk and protein powder used; using a high-protein milk (like soy) and a 25–30 g scoop of powder typically yields 20–30 g protein per serving.
Chia seeds add fiber and healthy fats that slow digestion, helping you feel full longer.
For lower sugar, reduce the sweetener and rely on vanilla and the chocolate flavor from cocoa or protein powder.

Variations and pairing ideas

Vegan: Use a plant-based protein powder (pea, soy, or brown rice) and fortified plant milk.
Mocha: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder.
Nut butter swirl: Fold in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for flavor and extra protein.
Layer it: Alternate pudding with Greek yogurt and fruit for parfait-style breakfasts. Pairing with a smoothie can make a balanced post-workout combo—check out these high-protein smoothie recipes for inspiration.

Storage

Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. If too thick after sitting, stir in a splash of milk to revive the texture.

Conclusion

For a tested, flavorful example you can adapt, try the Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding – Running on Real Food recipe to compare techniques and flavor variations.

High Protein Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding That’s Easy To Make! Read More »

chia seed recipes, chocolate pudding, easy vegan recipes, healthy snacks, high protein dessert