Low-Calorie Pineapple Cheesecake Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: Makes 8 servings (approximate)
This quick and easy low-calorie cheesecake is the perfect solution for those who crave a creamy dessert but don’t have the time or energy to prepare a traditional cheesecake. With the refreshing tropical flavor of pineapple and a zesty twist from orange, this cheesecake combines the richness of cream cheese with the lightness of a no-bake approach.
Whether you are looking for a guilt-free treat or simply want a fast and flavorful dessert for a special occasion, this cheesecake is sure to hit the spot. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed—perfect for those hectic days when a homemade dessert is just what you need but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crushed pineapple with juice | 1 can (about 15 oz) |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Orange zest | 1 tablespoon |
| Unflavored gelatin | 1 packet (1 tablespoon) |
| Eggs | 2 (or egg substitute equivalent) |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Graham cracker crust | 1 (store-bought or homemade) |
| Orange zest (for garnish) | 1 teaspoon (optional) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 302.3 |
| Total Fat | 17.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 99.2 mg |
| Sodium | 311.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 29.3 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.6 g |
| Sugars | 17.9 g |
| Protein | 7.3 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by draining the crushed pineapple thoroughly, reserving the juice for later use. Set the pineapple aside. -
Prepare the Gelatin Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the reserved pineapple juice with freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and sugar. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture begins to warm, sprinkle the gelatin over the liquid and allow it to sit for about 5 minutes to soften. Stir gently to dissolve the gelatin completely. -
Cook the Egg Mixture:
Beat the egg yolks with a whisk until the mixture becomes thick and light in color (about 2-3 minutes). Slowly pour the egg yolks into the gelatin mixture while whisking continuously. Continue to heat over low heat for a few more minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Be careful not to let it boil, as you don’t want the eggs to cook too quickly. -
Blend in Cream Cheese:
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and gradually add the cream cheese, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated. -
Incorporate the Pineapple:
Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple into the cream cheese mixture, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed. -
Beat the Egg Whites:
In a separate clean bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will help give the cheesecake its light, airy texture. -
Fold in the Egg Whites:
Carefully fold the beaten egg whites into the pineapple mixture. Be gentle during this step to maintain the fluffy texture of the whipped egg whites. -
Assemble the Cheesecake:
Spoon the pineapple-cream cheese mixture into a prepared graham cracker crust. If you are using a store-bought crust, simply press the mixture into the bottom. If you prefer to make your own, you can combine crushed graham crackers with a little butter to form the crust before filling it. -
Chill the Cheesecake:
Place the cheesecake in the refrigerator and chill for about 3 hours, or until it has set and is firm enough to slice. This chilling time is essential for the texture of the cheesecake. -
Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, you can garnish the cheesecake with additional orange zest for a fresh, vibrant touch. If desired, top with extra crushed pineapple for an even more tropical flavor.
Tips for Success:
-
Egg Substitute Option:
If you are concerned about the use of raw eggs, feel free to replace them with an egg substitute. You can use egg replacers or dried egg whites, following the package instructions for equivalent amounts. -
Storage:
Leftovers can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This cheesecake is best enjoyed chilled, so it remains fresh and creamy. -
Optional Add-ins:
If you want to enhance the tropical flavor, you can also add a bit of coconut extract to the mixture. You can also experiment with adding a few extra fruits like mango or strawberries for a fruity twist.
This Low-Calorie Pineapple Cheesecake is an excellent choice when you’re craving a sweet treat without the extra calories and time spent on preparation. With its combination of tangy pineapple, smooth cream cheese, and zesty orange flavor, it’s a refreshing dessert that everyone will enjoy!
