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These lightened-up coconut cheesecake bars deliver all the creamy indulgence of traditional cheesecake without the guilt that typically follows. By swapping in reduced-fat ingredients and incorporating protein-rich Greek yogurt, these bars satisfy your dessert cravings while keeping the calorie count impressively low at under 120 calories per serving. The tropical coconut flavor shines through in every bite, complemented perfectly by the crunchy toasted coconut and almond topping.
I first created these bars after the wild popularity of my skinny lemon and marble cheesecake bars among friends who were trying to make healthier choices without giving up dessert entirely. During a summer gathering, I served these alongside their full-fat counterparts without telling anyone which was which. To my delight, these lightened-up bars disappeared first, with guests specifically asking for the recipe for the "amazing coconut ones." That moment confirmed what I'd suspected—healthier desserts can absolutely compete with their more indulgent cousins when done right.
Ingredients for Skinny Cheesecake Bars
- Graham Cracker Crumbs: 1 cup
- Reduced-Fat Cream Cheese: 8 oz (Neufchâtel), room temp
- Greek Yogurt: ¼ cup plain 2%
- Egg Whites: 2 large
- Sugar: ⅓ cup
- Flour: 1 tbsp
- Coconut Extract: 1 tsp
- Vanilla Extract: ½ tsp
- Shredded Coconut: ¼ cup
- Sliced Almonds: 2 tbsp
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How to Make Lightened Cheesecake Bars
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line 8x8" pan with parchment
- Step 2:
- Mix graham crumbs with 3 tbsp melted butter, press firmly into pan
- Step 3:
- Beat cream cheese until smooth, add sugar, yogurt, egg whites, flour, extracts
- Step 4:
- Pour over crust, top with coconut-almond mixture
- Step 5:
- Bake 25-30 min until edges set but center slightly jiggles
- Step 6:
- Cool 1 hour, then chill 2+ hours before slicing
The Secret to Creamy Texture
Reduced-fat cream cheese + Greek yogurt maintains authentic cheesecake texture while cutting calories. Room temperature ingredients blend seamlessly without lumps. Greek yogurt's protein helps bars set properly without graininess.
Perfect Topping Technique
Watch closely during last 5-10 minutes of baking - coconut and almonds toast quickly. Tent with foil if browning too fast. For extra flavor, toast topping separately before adding.
My personal trainer friend was shocked by the calorie count, admitting she 'would never have guessed these were lightened up' while reaching for seconds. Now her 'cheat day that doesn't feel like cheating' treat.
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Variations & Serving
- Chocolate-Coconut: Add 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips
- Key Lime: 1 tbsp lime zest in filling
- Almond: Swap coconut extract for almond, use all almonds in topping
- Serve with fresh berries or coconut sorbet
These bars prove 'skinny' desserts don't mean sacrifice - with creamy texture, tropical flavor and under 120 calories, they satisfy cheesecake cravings while aligning with healthy eating goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do these cheesecake bars have fewer calories?
- These bars use several lighter substitutions: reduced-fat cream cheese, fat-free Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, egg whites instead of whole eggs, and a smaller amount of sugar than traditional cheesecake recipes.
- → Can I use fat-free cream cheese instead of reduced-fat?
- While you can use fat-free cream cheese, the texture may become slightly gummy. Reduced-fat (Neufchâtel) cream cheese offers the best balance between calorie reduction and maintaining a creamy texture.
- → What if I don't have coconut extract?
- If you don't have coconut extract, you can use coconut-flavored Greek yogurt instead of plain, or increase the toasted coconut on top. The flavor won't be as pronounced, but you'll still get coconut notes.
- → Can I make these gluten-free?
- Yes! Use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- → Can I freeze these cheesecake bars?
- Absolutely! These bars freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Cut them into individual portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.