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High Protein Chocolate Cheesecake Jars

The classic cheesecake jar, but with extra protein! Featuring a smooth chocolate-flavoured filling over an Oreo crumb crust, topped with chocolate ganache for a balanced and protein-rich dessert.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Cooling Time4 hours
Total Time5 hours 50 minutes
Course: Dessert
Keyword: cheesecake, protein
Servings: 5 jars
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 57 grams butter (approximately ¼ cup) melted
  • 150 grams Oreo crumbs (approximately ¼ cup)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

  • 226 grams cream cheese (one 8 ounce brick) room temperature
  • 50 grams sugar (¼ cup)
  • 120 grams Greek yogurt (½ cup) room temperature
  • 120 grams cottage cheese (½ cup) room temperature
  • 30 grams protein powder (1 scoop) vanilla or chocolate flavour
  • 1 egg room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • t tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp chocolate ganache

For the Topping:

  • ½ cup chocolate ganache
  • 3 tbsp chocolate covered quinoa puffs (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).

Prepare Crust:

  • In a bowl, mix melted butter, Oreo cookie crumbs, sugar, and salt until well combined.
  • Spoon 2 scoops of the crust mixture into each jar and press down lightly to form the crust.
  • Pre-bake the jars in the preheated oven for 10 minutes while preparing the filling.

Prepare Filling:

  • In a blender, combine cream cheese, sugar, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, protein powder, egg, vanilla, cocoa powder, and ganache. Make sure your ingredients are room temperature, so they blend properly. Cold ingredients will be lumpy!
  • Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  • Divide the filling evenly among the 5 jars, filling them about 80% of the way up the sides.

Bake:

  • Place the jars in a baking pan and add water to the pan for a water bath.
  • Bake the jars in the oven for 30 minutes.
  • Turn off the oven and leave the jars in the oven for an additional 1 hour.
  • Remove the jars from the oven and refrigerate for about 4 hours to allow the cheesecakes to set.

Top:

  • Once set, spoon a few scoops chocolate ganache on top of each cheesecake. Sprinkle with quinoa puffs, if using.

Notes

Approximate Macros per Jar:
  • Calories: 350 cal
  • Protein: 16 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 23 grams
Storage
  • Shelf Life: These protein cheesecake jars are best enjoyed within 3-4 days of preparation. The fresher, the better!
  • Storage: Store the cheesecake jars in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and texture. The cold temperature helps the cheesecake set properly.
  • Room Temperature Enjoyment: While the cheesecakes should be stored in the fridge, for optimal flavour and texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging. This brief period outside the fridge enhances the creaminess and brings out the full spectrum of flavours.
Substitutions
  • Oreo Cookie Crumbs: Experiment with different crust options by using crushed digestive biscuits, oatmeal cookies, or gluten-free Oreos for a gluten-free alternative.
  • Toppings: Feel free to explore other toppings such as fresh berries, peaches, or jams. 
Omitting Protein Powder:
If you prefer not to use protein powder in your protein cheesecake jars, feel free to omit it from the recipe. Without the protein powder, each jar would have a slightly lower protein content (approximately 9 grams). 
Jar Size Consideration:
For optimal results in making 5 protein cheesecake jars with consistent baking times, it's crucial to use wide-mouth jars with a capacity of 250 mL each. This ensures that the portions are evenly distributed, and the baking time is standardized.
  • Smaller Jars: If using jars with a smaller capacity, such as 125 mL, it will yield more portions, and the bake time should be reduced accordingly. 
  • Larger Jars: Conversely, using larger jars may result in fewer portions, and the bake time might need to be extended slightly. Monitor the baking process and adjust the time accordingly.