One of my favorite treats is cheesecake. I used to go to the Cheesecake Factory with my face pressed up against the glass trying to decide. But I gave it up a few years ago when I gained a few extra pounds. Okay, more than a few. I adapted this recipe from a South Beach Diet forum and handed it out to many dieters around the country who write me  back and thank me for this delicious addition to their list of “allowed” desserts.

Nutty Cheesecake

Crust
1 cup of nuts of choice: pecans, macadamia nuts, cashews, almonds, finely chopped
1 tsp vanilla
6 Tbsp butter, melted

Finely chop nuts in a food processor of choice. Mix together with butter and vanilla. If desired, add a few drops of stevia. Press in bottom of a 9” pie pan. Place in fridge.

Filling
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup plain Fage yogurt
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp lemon juice
Stevia to taste (I used 8 drops)

Beat cream cheese for about one minute and add remaining ingredients. Beat just until blended and pour over crust. Chill in the refrigerator. Top with toppings of choice and add whip cream if desired.