Weight Watchers Cherry Cheesecake Jars (Low-Point No-Bake Dessert)

Introduction

There are certain desserts that never fail to spark joy, and cheesecake has always been one of those for me. Growing up, cheesecake was a “special occasion only” dessert—something we’d order when dining out or splurge on for birthdays. I loved the rich creaminess, the sweet-tangy filling, and that buttery graham cracker crust. But once I joined Weight Watchers, I thought I had to say goodbye to it forever. Cheesecake just seemed like one of those “off-limits” desserts.

That’s where these Weight Watchers Cherry Cheesecake Jars changed everything for me. Not only do they taste every bit as indulgent as traditional cheesecake, but they’re also low-point, portion-controlled, and no-bake—which means I can whip them up anytime a craving strikes. I can confidently say these jars are a lifesaver for anyone who misses dessert but doesn’t want to blow their SmartPoints budget.

This recipe is perfect for WW members, busy families, and honestly anyone who loves dessert without the guilt. By using smart ingredient swaps like fat-free Greek yogurt, light cream cheese, and sugar-free cherry pie filling, each serving comes to just 3 SmartPoints—so you can enjoy cheesecake flavor without any hesitation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✨ Here’s why these Cherry Cheesecake Jars will quickly become your go-to WW dessert:

• 🍒 Bursting with sweet cherry flavor without loads of sugar.
• 🍰 Classic cheesecake creaminess in a lighter, healthier way.
• 🥄 Individual jars = built-in portion control (no over-scooping!).
• ⏱️ No-bake & quick to prepare—ready in under 15 minutes.
• 🥗 WW-friendly at just 3 SmartPoints per serving (Estimated).
• 👨‍👩‍👧 Family-approved: even non-dieters will love them.

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WW SmartPoints Info

• SmartPoints per serving: 3 (Estimated)
• Whole recipe SmartPoints: 18 for 6 jars (Estimated)

How SmartPoints were calculated: Estimated using WW SmartPoints principles based on fat-free Greek yogurt, light cream cheese, light whipped topping, sugar-free pudding mix, and sugar-free cherry pie filling.

⚠️ Note: WW algorithms are proprietary, so points here are estimated. Always double-check in your own WW app with the exact brands you use.

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My Personal Experience

The first time I made these jars, it was late at night after dinner when my sweet tooth hit hard. I opened the fridge, saw my container of Greek yogurt, a tub of light cream cheese, and a can of sugar-free cherry pie filling—and thought, “what if I combine these?”

To my surprise, it turned out creamy, tangy, and almost too good to be true. My husband, who is not on WW, grabbed a jar and said, “Wait, THIS is diet food?” That was my sign—I knew I had a winner.

Now, I keep these cheesecake jars as part of my weekly meal prep. They stay fresh for days, and I love knowing I can end the day with something sweet without stressing about my points.

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Required Equipment

Mixing Bowl

A medium-sized mixing bowl is essential for blending the cheesecake filling until smooth. If you don’t have one, any large bowl will do—just make sure it’s deep enough to avoid splatters.

Hand Mixer or Whisk

A hand mixer makes the filling silky smooth in minutes. Don’t worry if you only have a whisk—it’ll take more arm power but still works. The goal is creamy, lump-free filling.

Measuring Cups & Spoons

Accuracy is key in WW cooking. Measuring ensures your SmartPoints stay exact—no accidental “extra points.”

Mason Jars or Small Dessert Cups

Clear mason jars not only look cute but also make portion control effortless. If you don’t have jars, ramekins or even small glasses will work.

Rubber Spatula

Helpful for scraping every bit of creamy filling out of the bowl—because when it comes to cheesecake, nothing should go to waste.

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Ingredients & Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup fat-free Greek yogurt → Adds protein and creaminess, zero SmartPoints.
• 4 oz light cream cheese, softened → Provides classic cheesecake tang with fewer points than full-fat.
• 1 package (1 oz) sugar-free cheesecake pudding mix → Intensifies cheesecake flavor while keeping it low in sugar.
• 1 cup light whipped topping (like Cool Whip light) → Makes the filling airy and smooth.
• 1 cup crushed light graham crackers → A little crunch for that “crust” experience. Swap with crushed low-point cereal to save 1 point.
• 1 cup sugar-free cherry pie filling → The sweet topping that makes this dessert irresistible.

👉 Substitution tips:

• Use nonfat yogurt instead of cream cheese to lower points further (reduces by 1 SmartPoint).
• Try fresh cherries instead of pie filling to reduce sugar and points.
• Skip the graham crackers if you want zero-crust, zero extra points.

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How to Make Weight Watchers Cherry Cheesecake Jars

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In your mixing bowl, beat the Greek yogurt, light cream cheese, and sugar-free pudding mix until smooth. Add the whipped topping and fold gently with a spatula.

Mini-tip: Don’t over-mix once you add whipped topping—it keeps the filling fluffy.

Step 2: Assemble the Crust Layer

Spoon about 2 tablespoons of crushed graham crackers into the bottom of each jar. Press lightly with the back of the spoon to create a crust base.

Mini-tip: Want to save points? Halve the cracker amount, or skip entirely.

Step 3: Add the Cheesecake Layer

Divide the creamy mixture evenly among the jars, layering on top of the crust. Smooth the tops with your spatula for a polished look.

Step 4: Finish with Cherry Topping

Spoon sugar-free cherry pie filling over each jar, about 2 tablespoons per serving.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best texture (though honestly, I’ve eaten one right away and it was still dreamy).

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Over-mixing the filling → can make it dense instead of fluffy.
• ❌ Adding too many crackers → adds unnecessary points fast.
• ❌ Skipping chill time → filling won’t set properly and may taste runny.
• ❌ Not measuring toppings → a “little extra” cherry filling can sneak in extra points.

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Pro Tips for Best Results

• Use very cold Greek yogurt for a firmer set.
• Add a drop of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor without points.
• Portion the jars before adding cherries so every serving gets the right topping amount.

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WW-Specific Nutrition & Strategy

The beauty of this dessert is how low-point yet satisfying it is. Greek yogurt keeps you full, cherries satisfy a sweet tooth, and portion control prevents overeating.

👉 Pair one jar with a zero-point dinner like grilled chicken and vegetables, and you’ll have a full meal + dessert for fewer than 7 SmartPoints.

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Variations You Can Try

• 🍓 Strawberry Cheesecake Jars → swap cherry pie filling for sugar-free strawberry. (Same points.)
• 🍋 Lemon Cheesecake Jars → use sugar-free lemon pudding instead of cheesecake pudding. (Same points.)
• 🍫 Chocolate Cheesecake Jars → add cocoa powder to the filling (+1 point).

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Tips for This Recipe

• For meal prep: make jars in advance—they keep up to 4 days.
• For kids: swap sugar-free filling with regular pudding—they won’t notice the difference.
• To cut points: use crushed fiber cereal instead of graham crackers.

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Optional Additions

• Crushed nuts (+1–2 SmartPoints) for crunch.
• Shaved dark chocolate (+1 SmartPoint) for extra indulgence.
• Fresh fruit toppings (zero points for many fruits).

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Serving Ideas

These cheesecake jars are perfect for:

• 🍽️ After-dinner dessert
• 🎉 Potlucks (guests love individual servings)
• 🧑‍🍳 Meal prep snack for the week
• 💝 Gifting in decorated jars for holidays

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Storage Recommendations

• Fridge: Store covered up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge. Note: freezing may slightly change texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! They’re perfect for meal prep and stay fresh up to 4 days in the fridge.

Q2: Can I freeze them?
You can, but the texture may change slightly. Best enjoyed fresh.

Q3: How can I lower the points even more?
Skip the graham cracker crust and use fresh cherries instead of pie filling.

Q4: Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, swap Greek yogurt and cream cheese with dairy-free versions—just recalc SmartPoints.

Q5: Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Absolutely—vanilla, chocolate, or lemon all work. Points remain similar.

Q6: Do I have to use jars?
Nope, ramekins or cups work just as well—it’s all about portion control.

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Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 145
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 3g
• Total Carbs: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Net Carbs: 19g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 120mg
• SmartPoints per serving: 3 (Estimated)

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Recipe Snapshot

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (no-bake)
• Total Time: 15 minutes + chill time
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Servings: 6 jars
• Calories per serving: 145
• SmartPoints per serving: 3 (Estimated)