How to Make Singapore Cheese Cake (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Singapore Cheese Cake is a beloved dessert found in many local bakeries and even at modern kopitiam cafes. This fusion-style cake takes inspiration from classic cheesecake but is adapted with a lighter, less sweet profile, appealing to Singaporeans who enjoy indulgence without heaviness. Its silky, creamy texture and subtle tang make it a favourite for dessert tables during gatherings or as a sweet treat after a meal at the hawker centre. In Singapore, Cheese Cake often features a delicate balance of Western-style richness and local sensibilities, sometimes adorned with fresh tropical fruits or pandan for a unique twist. This healthy version is crafted with reduced sugar and lighter dairy, making it suitable for calorie-conscious foodies, vegetarians, and those seeking a guilt-free dessert. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with kopi at your favourite kopitiam or making it at home for a special occasion, Singapore Cheese Cake stands out as a modern classic that reflects the country’s vibrant culinary fusion culture.
Ingredients
- 150g Low-fat cream cheese
- 50g Greek yogurt (plain, low fat)
- 1 large Egg
- 5 pieces Oat digestive biscuits (or Marie biscuits)
- 20g Unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tbsp Stevia or low-calorie sweetener (or 1.5 tbsp sugar)
- 1 tsp Lemon zest (from local lemon)
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
- 1 tsp Cornstarch
- as needed for topping Fresh fruit (mango or strawberry) (optional)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Crush the oat digestive biscuits into fine crumbs
Crush the oat digestive biscuits into fine crumbs. Mix with melted unsalted butter until crumbs are coated.
Step 2 · Press the biscuit mixture firmly into the base of a lined mini spri...
Press the biscuit mixture firmly into the base of a lined mini springform pan or small baking dish to form an even crust.
Step 3 · In a mixing bowl
In a mixing bowl, blend low-fat cream cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth with a hand mixer.
Step 4 · Add stevia (or sugar)
Add stevia (or sugar), egg, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and cornstarch to the cheese mixture. Mix until just combined and smooth.
Step 5 · Pour the cheese mixture over the chilled crust
Pour the cheese mixture over the chilled crust. Tap gently to release any air bubbles.
Step 6 · Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 20 minutes
Bake at 160°C (320°F) for 20 minutes, or until the centre is just set but still slightly wobbly.
Step 7 · Allow to cool at room temperature
Allow to cool at room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving. Top with fresh mango or strawberries if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Cheese Cake is a smart choice for dessert lovers who are mindful of their calorie and sugar intake. By substituting full-fat dairy with lighter options and using a high-fibre biscuit base, it supports weight management and heart health. The use of Greek yogurt boosts protein content, making the cake more satiating. Reduced sugar and healthier ingredients make this dessert perfect for those seeking a balance between indulgence and nutrition, without compromising on the authentic taste Singaporeans love.
A note on tradition
Cheese Cake in Singapore reflects the nation's love for fusion and innovation, commonly enjoyed in modern kopitiams and dessert cafes. While not traditional to local hawker culture, its popularity has soared as Singaporeans embrace global flavours with a local twist—sometimes using ingredients like pandan or gula melaka. It's typically served as a treat during birthdays, festive gatherings, or as an elegant finish to a meal, embodying the city’s blend of East and West.