Cheesecake is a delicious recipe we all like to enjoy every once in a while. The problem is that most recipes are high in carbohydrates. While not all carbs are bad for you, refined carbs are linked to many diseases like obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Refined carbs are empty calories that can lead to spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels. They are low in nutrients as the refined grains are stripped of fiber, vitamins, and minerals after processing.
When we think of cheesecake, carbs can be found in the dairy content as well as the sugar and crust.
This is a low carb cheesecake recipe that reduces the carbs by eliminating the crust. It also replaces sugar with Splenda. Although Splenda does have carbs, it sweeter than sugar so you are able to use a smaller amount to get the same great taste.
The recipe is easy to make. All you have to do is combine all ingredients and pour into a pan to firm- no crust needed.
Those looking for other low carb variations can scroll down to check out the Atkins Cheesecake Recipe we have provided as well. This one does include a crust, but it is made from healthy nuts. It also includes a sugar substitute as a lower carb alternative.
Those who want to make cheesecake that is even lower in carbs can substitute cream cheese with a dairy free version.
It’s a bummer that so many of the dishes we love are high in carbs and other unhealthy ingredients. Fortunately, with an increased focus on wellness, many recipes have been created that offer healthy alternatives.
This is a satisfying and delicious low carb recipe for a cheesecake that is packed with flavor. Whip some up and sit back and enjoy this yummy dessert, completely guilt free!
Low Carb Cheesecake
Ingredients:
5 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 Tbsp. almond flour
5 eggs
1 3/4 cup Splenda
Dash of salt
1 tsp. lemon juice
1/4 tsp. sugar free vanilla extract
Directions:
1. Cream together all ingredients with softened cream cheese until well blended.
2. Bake in springform pan for 10 minutes at 500 degrees F.
3. Lower oven temperature to 200 degrees F and continue baking for 1 hour. Cool and refrigerate overnight.
Atkins Diet Cheesecake Recipe
Low carb cheesecake recipe from the Atkins Diet Cookbook
Ingredients:
Crust:
1 cup pine nuts
1 cup macadamia nuts
2 packets sugar substitute
3 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling:
16 ounces cream cheese
10 packets sugar substitute
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons grated fresh lemon rind
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup sour cream
Directions:
1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. For crust, place pine nuts and macadamias in bowl of a food processor; pulse until ground but not paste-like.
3. Add sugar substitute and butter; pulse to combine. Transfer to a 9″ springform pan.
4. With your fingers, gently press nut mixture to form a crust on bottom of pan. Bake 10 minutes; remove from oven and cool.
5. Place cream cheese and sugar substitute in food processor; process until smooth.
6. Add eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition.
7. Add vanilla extract, lemon rind and salt; pulse to combine. Add sour cream and process to combine.
8. Pour filling into prepared crust.
9. Bake 40 minutes. Turn off oven; let cheesecake cool for one hour without opening door. Chill overnight.
Are Sugar Substitutes Safe?
A lot of people worry about what's in their food. Anything artificial can raise eyebrows, and leave people hesitant to try that recipe or buy that product. Are sugar substitutes like Splenda safe? Let's talk about it.
Sugar substitutes are FDA-approved, meaning that the FDA has determined that these products are safe to use in food products in the United States. This conclusion was reached after the FDA reviewed over one hundred studies on the safety of sugar substitutes. There are, however, some things about sugar replacements that you still want to keep in mind.
Consuming high amounts of sugar substitutes, like sucralose, has been shown to upset the microbiome in your gut. This can cause issues like excessive gas and diarrhea. In addition, an upset microbiome can increase your risk for obesity and diabetes by increasing the amount of inflammation in your gut. This isn't a dangerous issue, but it can affect your quality of life and overall health in the long-term.
Research is still mixed on whether sucralose and other artificial sweeteners have an effect on blood sugar levels. Some research suggests they do not, while other research suggests that they do. If you're diabetic, it's important that you talk to your doctor about the potential risks of consuming artificial sweeteners.
Ultimately, artificial sweeteners are safe when consumed in moderation. Using some artificial sweetener to prepare these recipes won't do anything bad to you. Simply watch how frequently you're consuming artificial sweeteners, and you'll be good to go.
Do not take the content of this article as professional medical advice. It's important to exercise due diligence when obtaining relevant information in matters pertaining to your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.
Cheesecake Recipes List
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Renata Tyburczy/ via Getty Images.