A light and creamy cheesecake made with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist, topped with homemade pomegranate syrup. Perfect for any celebration!
Prep Time:25 minutes
Cook Time:50 minutes
Total Time:5 hours 15 minutes
Yield:8-10 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheesecake Filling
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp lemon zest
For the Pomegranate Syrup
1 cup pomegranate juice
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool while preparing the filling.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and lemon zest, mixing until fully combined.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the flour. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour the filling over the cooled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the Cheesecake
Place the springform pan on a baking sheet and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Turn off the oven, crack the door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour to prevent cracking.
Transfer to the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Make the Pomegranate Syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the pomegranate juice and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
If a thicker syrup is desired, mix the cornstarch and water, then stir it into the boiling mixture. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
Allow the syrup to cool completely before using.
Assemble and Serve
Remove the cheesecake from the springform pan and transfer it to a serving plate.
Drizzle the pomegranate syrup over the top, letting it cascade down the sides.
Garnish with fresh pomegranate arils, if desired. Slice and serve!
Notes
Ensure the cheesecake cools slowly in the oven to avoid cracks.
For a thicker syrup, use the cornstarch method, but it’s optional.
This cheesecake can be made a day ahead for even better flavor.