2 Ingredient Protein Cheesecake! (no protein powder)
2 Ingredient Protein Cheesecake! (no protein powder) is a easy American recipe that serves 2. 170 calories per serving. Recipe by lilsipper on YouTube.
Prep: 5 min | Cook: 2 hrs | Total: 2 hrs 10 min
Cost: $3.30 total, $1.65 per serving
Ingredients
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened to room temperature; use full‑fat or low‑fat as preferred)
- 2 large Eggs (room temperature; can use pasteurized eggs for safety)
- 1 tsp Sweetener (optional) (e.g., erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit; sprinkle on top before chilling)
Instructions
Soften Cream Cheese
Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 10‑15 minutes until soft, then cut into cubes for easier mixing.
Time: PT3M
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the two eggs. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and no lumps remain.
Time: PT2M
Transfer to Ramekin
Pour the batter into a 2‑inch ramekin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Time: PT1M
Add Optional Sweetener
If desired, sprinkle a light layer of your chosen sweetener over the surface of the batter.
Time: PT1M
Chill
Refrigerate the ramekin for at least 2 hours, or until the cheesecake is set and firm to the touch.
Time: PT2H
Temperature: 4°C
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 170
- Protein
- 25 g
- Carbohydrates
- 5 g
- Fat
- 8 g
- Fiber
- 0 g
Dietary info: Gluten‑Free, Grain‑Free, Diabetic‑Friendly, High‑Protein, Low‑Carb
Allergens: Dairy, Egg
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Cream Cheese: Neufchatel cheese, Greek yogurt (for lower fat)
- Instead of Eggs: Egg whites only, Silken tofu (vegan option, reduces protein slightly)
- Instead of Sweetener (optional): Granulated sugar (adds carbs), Honey (adds carbs and changes flavor)
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl
- Hand Whisk or Electric Mixer
- Ramekin (2‑inch)
- Spatula
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Soften the cream cheese completely before mixing.
- Whisk until the batter is smooth with no lumps.
- Chill for the full 2 hours to allow the cheesecake to set.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra flavor, fold in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon zest before chilling.
- Serve with a few fresh berries or a drizzle of sugar‑free fruit compote for added freshness.
Troubleshooting
Cheesecake is runny after chilling.
Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened and thoroughly mixed with the eggs; consider adding an extra egg white to help set.
Surface develops a skin.
Cover the ramekin loosely with plastic wrap while chilling.
Cheesecake is too dense.
Whisk the batter just until smooth; over‑mixing incorporates too much air, leading to a dense texture after chilling.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store the cheesecake in the ramekin, covered, for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the cheesecake a day ahead and keep it refrigerated; it actually improves in texture.
- If using a sweetener that can melt, add it just before serving to keep the topping crisp.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cheesecake in American cuisine?
Cheesecake has been a beloved American dessert since the 19th century, evolving from European cheese‑based cakes into a wide variety of styles, from New York‑style dense versions to lighter, low‑carb adaptations like this two‑ingredient version.
What are the traditional regional variations of cheesecake in the United States?
Regional variations include New York‑style dense cheesecake, Chicago’s cream‑cheese based version, and the lighter, no‑bake versions popular in the South. This recipe reflects the modern low‑carb, high‑protein trend that has emerged across the country.
How is a two‑ingredient cheesecake traditionally served in American households?
It is typically served chilled in individual ramekins or small dishes, often topped with a light dusting of sweetener, fresh berries, or a sugar‑free fruit sauce, making it a convenient single‑serve dessert.
What occasions or celebrations is cheesecake traditionally associated with in American culture?
Cheesecake is a popular choice for birthdays, holidays, pot‑luck gatherings, and as a special treat after dinner. Its versatility makes it suitable for both casual family meals and formal celebrations.
What other low‑carb American desserts pair well with this two‑ingredient cheesecake?
Pair it with sugar‑free chocolate mousse, almond flour shortbread, or a fresh berry salad to keep the meal low‑carb while offering contrasting textures and flavors.
What makes this two‑ingredient cheesecake special in the low‑carb dessert landscape?
It delivers a high protein punch (25 g) with only 170 calories, uses just two main ingredients, and is both grain‑free and gluten‑free, making it exceptionally simple yet nutritionally dense.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this two‑ingredient cheesecake?
Common mistakes include using cold cream cheese (which creates lumps), under‑mixing the batter, and not chilling long enough. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened and the mixture is smooth before chilling.
Why does this recipe use only cream cheese and eggs instead of a traditional crust or additional stabilizers?
The combination of cream cheese and eggs provides enough structure and protein to set the cheesecake without a crust or extra thickeners, keeping the recipe minimal, low‑carb, and quick to prepare.
Can I make this two‑ingredient cheesecake ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the ramekin and refrigerate; it will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the cheesecake is done?
The cheesecake should be firm to the touch, with a smooth, glossy surface. It should hold its shape when the ramekin is gently tilted, and the optional sweetener should appear as a light dusting on top.
What does the YouTube channel lilsipper specialize in?
The YouTube channel lilsipper focuses on simple, high‑protein, low‑carb recipes that are quick to make and suitable for health‑conscious home cooks, often using minimal ingredients and kitchen equipment.
How does the YouTube channel lilsipper's approach to low‑carb dessert cooking differ from other health‑food channels?
lilsipper emphasizes ultra‑simple recipes—often just two or three ingredients—while still delivering high protein and low calorie counts, whereas many other channels use more complex ingredient lists or elaborate techniques.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
