Rich and Creamy Chocolate Chip Cheesecake You’ll Crave

Rich, creamy, and studded with melty chocolate chips, this lightened-up cheesecake offers all the decadence you crave in a dessert—without the heaviness. With a simple graham cracker crust and a luscious filling, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, satisfying, and smart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy and Dreamy: The smooth cheesecake filling is melt-in-your-mouth good.
Chocolate in Every Bite: Mini chocolate chips are folded in for sweet surprise pockets.
Lightened-Up Ingredients: All the flavor you love, with fewer calories and sugar.
Make-Ahead Dessert: Great for preparing in advance for gatherings or sweet cravings.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 3/4 cup low-fat graham cracker crumbs
• 2 tbsp light butter, melted
• 1 tsp sugar substitute (optional)

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 8 oz reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup sugar substitute (like erythritol or monk fruit)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

Optional Topping

• A sprinkle of extra mini chocolate chips
• Light whipped cream (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and optional sweetener.
• Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate or springform pan.
• Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

• In a mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
• Add Greek yogurt, sugar substitute, egg, and vanilla. Mix until fully combined.
• Fold in the mini chocolate chips gently.

Bake the Cheesecake

• Pour the filling into the prepared crust.
• Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle with additional mini chocolate chips if desired.
• Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly.
• Turn off the oven, crack the door, and let the cheesecake cool inside for 15 minutes.
• Transfer to the fridge and chill for at least 3 hours before slicing.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

Calories: 165 | Carbs: 12g | Fat: 10g | Protein: 7g | Sugar: 5g | Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Room-Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensures a smooth and lump-free batter.
• No Overbaking: Cheesecake should jiggle slightly in the center when done—this means it’s creamy inside.
• Cool Gradually: Prevents cracks and keeps the texture perfect.
• Customize Your Crust: Use almond flour for a gluten-free option or chocolate graham crackers for more richness.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced Ingredients: Combines creamy and rich with smart, lighter choices.
• Portion-Friendly: Satisfying slices that don’t go overboard on calories.
• Delightfully Sweet: Just the right touch of sweetness from chocolate chips and vanilla.
• Simple and Reliable: Easy instructions even for beginner bakers.

This Chocolate Chip Cheesecake proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for a lighter dessert. With its creamy filling, chocolate chip goodness, and crisp graham crust, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again—whether you’re sharing it with guests or savoring a solo slice.