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Easy High Protein Strawberry Cheesecake Jar

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Total Time: 15 minutes (plus 4+ hours for chilling)
Active Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Very Easy
Intensity: Low Effort
Yield: 1 generous serving
Category: Healthy Dessert, Meal Prep, Post-Workout

Introduction

Indulge your sweet tooth without derailing your nutrition goals! This Easy High Protein Strawberry Cheesecake Jar is a dreamy, layered dessert that comes together in just minutes. Perfect for a satisfying post-workout treat, a healthy snack, or a guilt-free dessert, it packs over 30 grams of protein and features a creamy, no-bake cheesecake filling layered with fresh strawberries and a crunchy, wholesome base. The best part? It’s assembled in a portable jar, making it ideal for meal prep or on-the-go enjoyment.

Flavor Profile: Creamy, sweet, tangy, with a hint of vanilla and fresh berry brightness.
Texture: A delightful combination of crunchy base, velvety filling, and juicy fruit.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 380 kcal

  • Protein: 32g

  • Carbohydrates: 35g

  • Dietary Fiber: 6g

  • Sugars: 18g (Includes natural sugars from fruit and yogurt)

  • Fat: 14g

  • Saturated Fat: 6g

Equipment Needed

  • 1 wide-mouth 16 oz (pint) mason jar or similar glass jar

  • Small mixing bowl

  • Hand mixer or whisk

  • Measuring spoons and cups

  • Spoon or small spatula for layering

Ingredients

For the Crunchy Base:

  • 3 tbsp (24g) old-fashioned rolled oats

  • 1 tbsp (15g) almond flour (or oat flour)

  • 1/2 tbsp (7g) natural almond butter (or peanut butter)

  • 1 tsp (5ml) pure maple syrup or honey

  • 1 tsp (5ml) water or milk of choice (to help bind)

For the High-Protein Cheesecake Filling:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) low-fat (2%) cottage cheese or Greek yogurt*

  • 1 scoop (30g) vanilla or unflavored whey protein powder (or plant-based alternative)

  • 2 tbsp (30ml) milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat)

  • 1 tsp (5ml) fresh lemon juice

  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract

  • Optional: 1-2 tsp powdered sweetener of choice (like erythritol), to taste

For the Strawberry Layer:

  • 1/2 cup (about 75g) fresh strawberries, hulled and diced

  • 1 tsp (5ml) chia seeds (optional, for a thicker, jam-like consistency)

For Topping (Optional):

  • 1-2 fresh strawberries, sliced

  • A sprinkle of crushed graham cracker crumbs or extra oats

  • Fresh mint leaf

Note on Cottage Cheese: For an ultra-smooth filling, blend the cottage cheese in a mini food processor or with an immersion blender before mixing. Greek yogurt will yield a tangier, slightly thinner filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Part 1: Prepare the Base (5 minutes)

  1. In your small mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond flour, almond butter, and maple syrup.

  2. Stir vigorously with a fork until the mixture looks like coarse, damp sand. If it seems too dry, add the teaspoon of water or milk one drop at a time until it just holds together when pinched.

  3. Spoon this mixture directly into the bottom of your clean mason jar. Use the back of your spoon to press it down firmly and evenly into a compact layer. Set aside.

Part 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling (5 minutes)

  1. In the same bowl (no need to wash), combine the cottage cheese (or Greek yogurt), protein powder, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.

  2. Using a hand mixer on medium speed (or a very vigorous whisk), beat the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it is completely smooth, creamy, and free of lumps. It should have a thick, spreadable consistency similar to frosting. Taste and add a little powdered sweetener if desired.

  3. Set this filling aside while you prepare the strawberries.

Part 3: Assemble the Jar (5 minutes)

  1. Prepare Strawberries: In a small cup, toss the diced strawberries with the chia seeds (if using). The chia seeds will slowly absorb moisture and create a natural, slightly gel-like layer.

  2. First Layer: Spoon half of the prepared cheesecake filling over the compacted oat base in your jar. Smooth it into an even layer with the back of your spoon.

  3. Berry Layer: Add the diced strawberry (and chia) mixture, spreading it evenly over the first cheesecake layer.

  4. Final Layer: Top with the remaining cheesecake filling, smoothing it out to seal in the berries.

  5. Garnish: Immediately top with sliced fresh strawberries and any other optional garnishes like a sprinkle of oat crumbs.

  6. Seal and Chill: Secure the lid tightly on the jar.

Part 4: The Essential Chill (4+ hours – Overnight is Best)

  • This step is non-negotiable for the best texture! Place the sealed jar in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight.

  • Why? The chilling time allows the oat base to soften slightly into a “cheesecake crust” texture, the flavors to meld beautifully, and the filling to set firmly. The chia seeds (if used) will also thicken the strawberry layer.

Serving & Storage Instructions

  • Serve: Enjoy directly from the jar with a long spoon! The dessert is best enjoyed cold.

  • Meal Prep: This recipe is a perfect make-ahead option. Assemble jars up to 3-4 days in advance and store them sealed in the refrigerator.

  • Storage: Keep refrigerated at all times. Consume within 4 days.

Chef’s Notes & Variations

  • No Protein Powder? Increase the cottage cheese or Greek yogurt to 3/4 cup and add an extra tablespoon of almond flour or 1/4 tsp of vanilla pudding mix (sugar-free if preferred) to thicken.

  • Berry Swap: Substitute strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of your favorite berries.

  • Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of almond butter and oat flour instead of almond flour.

  • Decadent Twist: Stir 1 tsp of sugar-free chocolate chips into the base or drizzle 1/2 tsp of melted dark chocolate on top before serving.

  • Texture Tip: For a more authentic graham cracker crust flavor, add a tiny pinch of cinnamon to the oat base.

Last Step: Grab your spoon, dive through the creamy layers, and savor every bite of this protein-packed, feel-good dessert that proves healthy eating can be absolutely delicious!

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