Go Back

Cottage Cheese Cheesecake

Creamy Cottage Cheese Cheesecake made with Greek yogurt and fresh lemon zest.
This easy high protein dessert is light, smooth, and simple to make.
Perfect for a healthier cheesecake recipe with delicious flavor.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

For the Graham Crust (Optional)

  • 3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Pinch kosher salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

For the Cottage Cheese Cheesecake

  • 1 cup cottage cheese 2% or preferred variety
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 large egg
  • tablespoons sugar
  • tablespoons flour or cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest

Optional Toppings

  • Greek yogurt
  • Strawberries
  • Granola
  • Strawberry compote

Instructions
 

Prepare the Graham Crust

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 6-inch springform pan.
  • In a small bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and salt.
  • Stir in melted butter until evenly moistened.
  • Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  • Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and fragrant.

Make the Cottage Cheese Cheesecake

  • Add cottage cheese, Greek yogurt, egg, sugar, flour or cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to a high-powered blender.
  • Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  • Pour the cheesecake mixture into the prepared crust or directly into the greased pan.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes until the edges are set and lightly golden. The center should still jiggle slightly.
  • Allow the Cottage Cheese Cheesecake to cool to room temperature.
  • Refrigerate for several hours or overnight before serving.

Optional Strawberry Compote

  • Add frozen strawberries to a small saucepan with a splash of water.
  • Bring to a gentle boil.
  • Stir in a small cornstarch slurry and a pinch of sugar.
  • Simmer briefly until thickened.
  • Serve topped with yogurt, granola, and strawberry compote if desired.

Notes

  • Double the recipe for an 8-inch or 9-inch pan.
  • Swap lemon zest for orange zest for a different citrus flavor.
  • Vanilla bean paste can replace vanilla extract.
  • Gluten-free graham crackers work well for a gluten-free option.