Description
This Keto Strawberry Cheesecake is a creamy, low-carb dessert perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. With a buttery almond flour crust, rich cream cheese filling mixed with fresh strawberry puree and chunks, and a lightly sweetened strawberry topping, it combines the classic flavor of strawberry cheesecake without the sugar and carbs. Ready in about 4 hours and 20 minutes, this dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup granulated erythritol (or your preferred keto sweetener)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated erythritol (or your preferred keto sweetener)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, pureed (about 1/2 cup pureed strawberries + 1/2 cup chopped strawberries for mixing in)
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons granulated erythritol (or your preferred keto sweetener)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the crust bakes evenly and develops a nice golden color.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour, erythritol, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well combined and crumbly but holds together when pressed.
- Press into Pan: Firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, spreading it evenly to form a solid base for the cheesecake.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until it becomes lightly golden. Once done, remove the crust and allow it to cool completely to prevent the cheesecake filling from melting.
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using a mixer until smooth and creamy. This ensures no lumps and a silky cheesecake texture.
- Add Sweetener and Vanilla: Add erythritol and vanilla extract to the cream cheese and continue beating until thoroughly combined and smooth.
- Whip Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This adds airiness to the filling, making it light and fluffy.
- Fold Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula to maintain the light texture while fully incorporating the ingredients.
- Add Strawberries: Fold in the pureed strawberries followed by the chopped strawberries, mixing gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the cheesecake filling.
- Assemble Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan and smooth the top evenly with a spatula.
- Chill Cheesecake: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or until it is fully set and firm enough to slice cleanly.
- Prepare Strawberry Topping: In a small saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, erythritol, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Cool Topping: Remove the strawberry topping from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature before spreading it on the cheesecake, preventing melting or runoff.
- Remove Cheesecake from Pan: Carefully loosen and remove the sides of the springform pan to reveal the set cheesecake.
- Apply Topping: Spread the cooled strawberry topping evenly over the surface of the chilled cheesecake.
- Optional Garnish: Optionally garnish the cheesecake with additional fresh strawberries or mint leaves for an elegant presentation and extra flavor.
- Store Leftovers: Store any leftover cheesecake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to keep it fresh.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- For a firmer crust, press it down firmly and bake it thoroughly until golden.
- The cheesecake needs adequate chilling time to fully set, so plan ahead.
- If you prefer a sweeter topping, adjust the erythritol amount to taste.
- This cheesecake is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.