I love making this Healthy Cream Cheese Frosting with Greek Yogurt when I want something creamy, lightly sweet, and a little more nourishing than traditional frosting. By combining cream cheese with Greek yogurt, I get a smooth texture with extra protein and a pleasant tangy flavor. I find it perfect for cakes, muffins, or even as a fruit dip when I want a quick treat that feels balanced.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 oz (½ block) cream cheese, softened
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably full-fat or 2%)
2–4 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, to taste
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: 2–4 tablespoon powdered sugar for thicker or extra sweetness
Directions
I start by letting the cream cheese sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes so it softens. This helps me achieve a smooth, lump-free texture.
In a medium bowl, I beat together the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt until the mixture is creamy and well blended. I use a hand mixer for the smoothest result, but a whisk also works with a little extra effort.
Next, I add the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. I mix again until everything is fully combined. I taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
If I want a thicker frosting, I add powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time until I reach the consistency I like. I sometimes chill the frosting for 20–30 minutes to help it firm up, especially if I plan to pipe it.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 1 cup of frosting, which I find is enough to frost 8–10 cupcakes or lightly cover a small 8-inch cake.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time (optional): 20–30 minutes
Total time: 10–40 minutes depending on chilling
Variations
I like to customize this frosting depending on what I am serving it with. For a fresh twist, I mix in a little lemon zest. When I want something warm and cozy, I add a pinch of cinnamon. For a chocolate version, I stir in a small amount of cocoa powder.
If I plan to pipe the frosting, I use full-fat Greek yogurt and add a bit of powdered sugar to help it hold its shape better.
Storage/Reheating
I store this frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Before using it again, I let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and give it a quick stir to restore its creamy texture.
I do not recommend freezing it, as the yogurt can separate and change the texture once thawed.
FAQs
Can I use fat-free cream cheese?
I can use reduced-fat cream cheese, but I avoid fat-free because I find the texture becomes too thin and less creamy.
Can I make this frosting dairy-free?
I can experiment with dairy-free cream cheese and dairy-free yogurt alternatives, but I keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary.
How do I make the frosting thicker?
I add powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time or chill the frosting for 20–30 minutes to help it firm up.
Can I pipe this frosting onto cupcakes?
I can pipe it if I use full-fat Greek yogurt and add some powdered sugar for structure. I also chill it before piping for better results.
What can I use this frosting on?
I love spreading it on carrot cake, banana bread, zucchini muffins, and red velvet cupcakes. I also use it as a fruit dip or a creamy toast spread.
Conclusion
I enjoy making this healthy cream cheese frosting with Greek yogurt whenever I want a lighter alternative that still feels indulgent. I appreciate how easy it is to prepare and how flexible it is for different flavors and uses. It has become one of my favorite simple recipes for adding a creamy, tangy finish to baked goods and snacks.
📖 Recipe:
Healthy Cream Cheese Frosting with Greek Yogurt
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 10–40 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup (8–10 servings)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A lightened-up cream cheese frosting made with Greek yogurt for extra protein and a tangy flavor. Naturally sweetened and perfectly creamy, it’s ideal for cakes, muffins, or as a fruit dip.
Ingredients
4 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2%)
2–4 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: 2–4 tablespoons powdered sugar (for thicker consistency or extra sweetness)
Instructions
- Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes until softened.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and Greek yogurt together until smooth and creamy.
- Add honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully combined.
- Taste and adjust sweetness as desired.
- If a thicker consistency is preferred, add powdered sugar one tablespoon at a time until the desired texture is reached.
- For best results when piping, chill the frosting for 20–30 minutes before using.
Notes
Use full-fat Greek yogurt for a thicker, more stable frosting.
Chilling helps the frosting firm up for piping.
Add lemon zest, cinnamon, or cocoa powder for flavor variations.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
