Gaps Cream Cheese Dessert Recipe for Easy Sweet Treats

Updated On: October 13, 2025

Looking for a delightful dessert that’s creamy, tangy, and incredibly satisfying? This GAPS cream cheese dessert recipe is a perfect fit!

It combines the rich, smooth texture of homemade cream cheese with natural sweeteners and fresh flavors to create a guilt-free treat that aligns beautifully with the GAPS diet principles. Whether you’re new to the GAPS lifestyle or simply want a wholesome, nourishing dessert, this recipe is simple to make and wonderfully versatile.

Enjoy a dessert that not only tastes amazing but also supports gut health and digestion. We’ll guide you through the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions to whip up this luscious treat.

Plus, you’ll find tips and variations to customize it your way. Dive in and discover why this GAPS cream cheese dessert could become your new favorite indulgence!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cream cheese dessert recipe is a standout for many reasons. First, it’s aligned with the GAPS diet, focusing on gut healing and nutrient-dense ingredients.

The natural probiotics in cream cheese promote digestive health, which is central to the GAPS protocol.

Secondly, the recipe is easy to prepare with accessible ingredients and requires no complicated techniques. From beginners to experienced cooks, everyone can enjoy making and savoring this dessert.

Lastly, it’s incredibly versatile! You can enjoy it plain, add fresh fruits, or sprinkle nuts and spices for extra flavor.

Plus, it’s low in sugar and free from processed ingredients, making it a healthy alternative to traditional desserts.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole milk (preferably raw or organic for best probiotic content)
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt (with live cultures, to ferment the milk)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for curdling)
  • 1/4 cup raw honey or maple syrup (natural sweetener)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for flavor)
  • Fresh berries or sliced fruits (optional, for topping)
  • Chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans, optional)
  • A pinch of sea salt

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed saucepan for heating milk
  • Thermometer to monitor milk temperature
  • Glass or ceramic bowl for fermenting milk
  • Cheesecloth or muslin cloth for straining the curds
  • Colander or fine mesh strainer
  • Mixing bowl for blending cream cheese with sweeteners
  • Spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Refrigerator-safe container for storing the dessert

Instructions

  1. Heat the milk: Pour 2 cups of whole milk into a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Slowly heat it over medium heat until it reaches about 180°F (82°C). Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. This step sterilizes the milk, preparing it for culturing.
  2. Cool the milk: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the milk to cool to 110°F (43°C). Use a thermometer for accuracy as this is the ideal temperature for fermentation.
  3. Add the yogurt starter: Stir in 1/4 cup of plain yogurt with live cultures into the cooled milk. Mix gently but thoroughly, then cover the saucepan or transfer the mixture to a glass or ceramic bowl. Cover with a clean towel and let it ferment at room temperature for 12-24 hours, depending on how tangy you want the flavor.
  4. Curdle the milk: After fermentation, slowly heat the milk again until it reaches about 115°F (46°C). Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. You’ll notice the milk curdling, with curds separating from the whey.
  5. Strain the curds: Line a colander with cheesecloth and place it over a large bowl. Pour the curdled milk mixture into the cheesecloth to separate the curds from the whey. Let it drain for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator until the cream cheese reaches your desired consistency.
  6. Sweeten and flavor: Transfer the thickened cream cheese to a mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup raw honey or maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Adjust sweetness to taste.
  7. Serve or store: Spoon the cream cheese dessert into serving bowls. Top with fresh berries, sliced fruits, and chopped nuts if desired. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor and texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

For a thicker, cheesecake-like texture, strain the curds longer. To add richness, fold in a tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut cream after straining.

Try mixing in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor, or swirl in homemade fruit preserves for a natural sweetness boost without refined sugar.

You can customize this dessert by experimenting with various toppings such as toasted coconut flakes, cacao nibs, or even a drizzle of dark chocolate sauce. If you prefer a vegan alternative, explore how to substitute almonds for cashews in vegan cheese recipes.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per serving)
Calories 180
Protein 8g
Fat 12g
Carbohydrates 10g
Sugar 8g (from honey or maple syrup)
Calcium 150mg
Probiotics High (from fermented yogurt and cream cheese)

Serving Suggestions

This GAPS cream cheese dessert is wonderful on its own or paired with a variety of accompaniments. Serve it alongside fresh fruit salad or roasted stone fruits for a bright contrast.

It also pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of homemade granola or nuts for added crunch.

For a more indulgent treat, consider layering it with chia seed pudding or a fruit compote for a parfait-style dessert. This dessert also works well as a spread for gluten-free crackers or crispbreads as a light afternoon snack.

If you enjoy exploring wholesome recipes, don’t miss these favorites: Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, A Cold Vegetable Soup Recipe to Refresh Your Summer Meals, and Black Bean Sauce Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Guide.

Conclusion

This GAPS cream cheese dessert recipe delivers a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and gut-friendly ingredients. It’s an excellent choice for those following the GAPS diet or anyone seeking a nourishing, homemade dessert without processed sugars or additives.

The creamy texture combined with natural sweetness and optional fruit toppings makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, this dessert invites you to embrace wholesome cooking and enjoy the benefits of fermented foods. Whether you serve it for a family gathering or a quiet treat after dinner, it’s sure to impress.

Try it today and discover how delicious healing food can be!

📖 Recipe Card: GAPS Cream Cheese Dessert

Description: A creamy, gut-friendly dessert perfect for the GAPS diet. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising digestion.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup raw honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup coconut cream
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/2 cup fresh berries (optional)
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
  2. Add raw honey and vanilla extract; mix well.
  3. Stir in coconut cream and sea salt until combined.
  4. Fold in chopped walnuts and chia seeds.
  5. Divide mixture into serving dishes.
  6. Top with fresh berries if desired.
  7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 | Protein: 6g | Fat: 28g | Carbs: 8g

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Marta K

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