High Protein Pumpkin Cheesecake (Gluten Free, Low Carb)

Introduction

This High Protein Pumpkin Cheesecake is the ultimate dessert for those who crave the cozy flavors of fall without compromising on healthy eating goals. Packed with protein and featuring a gluten-free, low-carb crust, it delivers all the creamy, spiced goodness of traditional pumpkin cheesecake—without the sugar crash. Whether you’re feeding fitness-focused friends, planning a festive holiday menu, or just want a guilt-free treat, this recipe rises to the occasion.

Why This High Protein Pumpkin Cheesecake Stands Out

What sets this cheesecake apart is its blend of nourishing ingredients chosen to satisfy and fuel at the same time. Creamy cottage cheese or Greek yogurt replaces some of the cream cheese, boosting protein and ensuring a lighter texture. Almond flour and a touch of coconut flour make the crust gluten free and low carb, while the warm spices and real pumpkin purée keep every bite rich and inviting.

The Right Protein Boost and Pumpkin Flavor

Using a plain or vanilla protein powder not only amplifies the protein content but also adds structure to the filling, ensuring a dense yet silky result. Pure pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling) infuses that unmistakable autumnal flavor, balanced beautifully by classic pumpkin pie spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Easy Steps, Irresistible Results

No complicated water baths here—this cheesecake is simple to prep with just one bowl for the filling and a quick pulse of ingredients for the crust. The finished dessert cuts cleanly and carries well, making it a superb option for meal prepping snacks or desserts ahead of the busy week.

Serving Suggestions for a Guilt-Free Dessert

Enjoy slices chilled for a creamy, dense treat, or garnish with a swirl of whipped coconut cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra-special presentation. Serve at a fall potluck, holiday dinner, or simply as a protein-packed snack after a workout.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 10 servings. Each slice contains approximately 160-180 calories, 12g protein, 5g net carbs, and 9g fat (nutrition will vary based on protein powder and sweetener choice), making it a satisfying low-carb treat you can feel good about.

💡Meal Planning Tip: Save this recipe in CookifyAI and instantly generate an organized, grocery-ready shopping list—with everything sorted by category for the most efficient meal planning and shopping experience!

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line the bottom of an 8-inch springform pan with parchment paper and lightly grease the sides.
2. In a bowl, mix all crust ingredients until combined. Press evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove and let cool slightly while preparing the filling.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine the cottage cheese (or Greek yogurt), pumpkin purée, and softened cream cheese. Blend until very smooth.
4. Add the sweetener, eggs, protein powder, vanilla, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Blend again until the mixture is silky and homogenous.
5. Pour the filling over the baked crust and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the edges are set and the center jiggles slightly.
7. Turn the oven off and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door ajar for 30 minutes (this helps prevent cracking).
8. Transfer to the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before removing from the pan and slicing.

Weekly Meal Planning

Including this High Protein Pumpkin Cheesecake in your weekly planning is a fantastic way to stay on track with your health goals without sacrificing flavor. Save and schedule this recipe in CookifyAI for easy meal planning—it will automatically consolidate all the ingredients you need, neatly organized by aisle and by meal.

Planning Benefits:

• Calculates total ingredient needs across all your weekly recipes
• Prevents duplicate purchases and missing ingredients
• Keeps your shopping trips fast, focused, and stress-free
• Brings nutrition and variety to both snacks and desserts throughout the week

Pro tip: When meal prepping for the week, schedule your recipes in CookifyAI to see where ingredients like eggs, sweetener, or Greek yogurt overlap, helping you buy just the right amount and minimize waste!

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes (includes chilling time)