Atkins-Friendly Cheesecake: A Decadent Low-Carb Delight
This sumptuous cheesecake is a delightful creation by my neighbor Frannie, inspired by the cravings of our husbands, both of whom are on the Atkins diet. The cake is sweetened with Splenda, making it a low-carb dessert option that does not compromise on flavor. With each slice offering just 6 to 8 grams of carbs, this cheesecake is perfect for anyone looking to indulge without straying from their dietary goals. Let’s delve into the detailed recipe that yields twelve delicious servings, perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home.
Nutritional Information
Before we embark on the cooking journey, let’s take a moment to review the nutritional profile of this delightful cheesecake.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 397.7 |
| Total Fat | 37.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 18.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 149.4 mg |
| Sodium | 284.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugars | 1.4 g |
| Protein | 10.7 g |
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a cheesecake that is not only Atkins-friendly but also rich and creamy. Here’s what you will need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cinnamon | 1 tablespoon |
| Nutmeg | 1 tablespoon |
| Splenda sugar substitute | 3 tablespoons (plus 1 cup for filling) |
| Cream cheese | 4 packages (8 oz each) |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Vanilla | 1 tablespoon |
| Eggs | 3 large |
Instructions
Let’s break down the preparation into two main parts: making the crust and then the cheesecake filling. Each step is essential for achieving that perfect cheesecake texture and flavor.
For the Crust:
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that the crust bakes evenly.
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Prepare the Almonds: In a blender, add 1 1/2 cups of almonds. Blend them until they reach a medium to fine texture. The almonds serve as a fantastic low-carb substitute for traditional graham cracker crusts.
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Mix in Protein Powder: To the ground almonds, add 1/3 cup of vanilla flavored whey protein powder. This ingredient not only adds protein but also enhances the flavor of the crust.
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Incorporate Butter and Spices: Next, pour in 4 tablespoons of melted butter, followed by 1 tablespoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of nutmeg. Blend the mixture until all ingredients are well combined.
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Sweeten the Crust: Add about 3 tablespoons of Splenda to the mixture, blending it in to ensure an even distribution of sweetness throughout the crust.
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Form the Crust: Spray a pie dish or springform pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Pour the crust mixture into the dish and use your hands to evenly press it into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
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Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes until it is lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the cheesecake filling.
For the Cheesecake Filling:
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Preheat the Oven Again: Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) as you prepare the filling.
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Cream the Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, place 4 packages of cream cheese (each 8 ounces) and beat with a mixer until smooth and creamy. This step ensures that your cheesecake will have a silky texture.
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Incorporate Splenda and Sour Cream: Gradually add 1 cup of Splenda and 1 cup of sour cream to the cream cheese, mixing well until fully combined. The sour cream will add a lovely tanginess that balances the sweetness.
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Add Vanilla: Beat in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Incorporate the Eggs: Add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This method helps to maintain the airiness of the filling, which is key to a light cheesecake.
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Achieve a Smooth Mixture: Continue to beat the mixture until it is very smooth with no lumps. This step is crucial for achieving that luxurious cheesecake texture.
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Combine with the Crust: Pour the cheesecake filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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Prepare for Baking: To ensure even baking and prevent cracking, place a large pan filled with water on the lower rack of the oven. This will create steam in the oven.
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Bake the Cheesecake: Carefully place the cheesecake on the middle rack and bake for 1 hour. The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center is still slightly jiggly.
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Chill Before Serving: Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for a while. Then, refrigerate it for several hours or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier.
Conclusion
This Atkins-Friendly Cheesecake is not only a wonderful dessert option for those following a low-carb diet, but it is also a treat that everyone can enjoy. The creamy filling combined with the nutty crust provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor that is sure to please any crowd. With just the right amount of sweetness from Splenda and the aromatic spices enhancing the experience, this cheesecake is bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Serve it plain or top it with a low-carb fruit compote or whipped cream for an extra special touch. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this cheesecake delivers satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy your culinary creation, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family, because this delicious dessert deserves to be savored and celebrated!
