July 30 marks National Cheesecake Day, and while this creamy, dreamy dessert often gets a bad rap in the world of health and fitness, we’re here to prove that you can have your cheesecake and eat it too, without derailing your wellness goals.

Whether you’re a full-time foodie, a macro-counting meal prepper, or just someone who loves a good post-dinner treat, this year we’re offering up a Nashville Fit-approved cheesecake recipe with smart ingredient swaps that are kinder to your body, blood sugar, and gut.

Where to Find a Healthier Slice in Nashville

Not much of a baker? No problem. These local spots are offering better-for-you takes on cheesecake this week in celebration of National Cheesecake Day:

• E+Rose Wellness Café – Try their raw vegan “cheesecake” bites made with cashews, coconut milk, and dates.

• The Urban Juicer – Look for their seasonal protein cheesecake parfait (limited availability).

• Wildberry Café in East Nashville – They’re offering a low-carb strawberry cheesecake slice all week using monk fruit and almond flour crust.

• Clean Eatz in Brentwood – Keep an eye on their meal prep menu for a rotating healthy dessert that often includes cheesecake cups made with Greek yogurt.

Traditional Cheesecake vs. The Fit Version

A standard slice of cheesecake can run upwards of 400–600 calories, packed with refined sugar, processed cream cheese, and a buttery graham cracker crust. Delicious? Sure. But gut-friendly or gym-friendly? Not exactly.

So we asked local registered dietitians and trainers what they would sub in to make this dessert a little lighter without losing that rich texture and flavor. The result? A protein-packed, low-sugar, gluten-free cheesecake that won’t leave you bloated or buzzing from a sugar crash.

Tennessee nutritionist, Krystal Goodman offers a simple and easy way to prepare your next favorite sweet dish. Introducing the Cottage Cheese Strawberry Cheesecake Bark:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Krystal FNTP, CPT NUTRITIONIST (@thekleannutritionist)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cottage cheese

• 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Crushed graham crackers (for the crust layer)

• Fresh strawberries, sliced

• Optional: white chocolate chips (for an extra sweet touch)

Instructions:

1. Blend the cottage cheese, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until completely smooth.

2. Spread the mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined baking sheet like you would a traditional bark.

3. Top with crushed graham crackers, sliced strawberries, and a sprinkle of white chocolate chips if using.

4. Freeze for 1–2 hours or until firm. Break into bark-style pieces and enjoy straight from the freezer!

National Cheesecake Day doesn’t have to mean a cheat day. With thoughtful ingredients and mindful choices, you can still indulge—just with intention.

After all, wellness isn’t about restriction. It’s about creating habits (and recipes) that serve your goals and still bring joy to the plate.

So go ahead and celebrate cheesecake the fit way. Your taste buds (and your macros) will thank you.

Author: Tala Shatara