Soften the cream cheese: Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes so it blends smoothly. If you’re in a rush, cut it into small cubes to warm faster.
Mix the cheesecake base: In a bowl, beat 6 ounces light cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 scoop (about 25–30g) vanilla protein powder, 1–2 tablespoons sweetener, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest, and a pinch of salt.
Whip until creamy and thick, 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust sweetness or lemon.
Make the berry layer: In a small bowl, lightly mash 1 cup berries with 1–2 teaspoons sweetener and a squeeze of lemon. For extra body, stir in 1 teaspoon chia seeds and let it sit 5 minutes to thicken.
If using frozen berries, thaw first and drain excess liquid.
Optional crust: Stir together 1/4 cup almond meal with a pinch of cinnamon, a tiny pinch of salt, and a few drops of melted coconut oil or butter. Mix just until it clumps slightly.
Assemble the jars: Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the almond “crust” into the bottom of two small jars (8–10 ounces each), pressing gently. Add a generous layer of cheesecake filling, then a spoonful of berries.
Repeat layers, ending with berries on top.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld and the texture sets. An hour is even better.
Serve: Top with a few fresh berries, a sprinkle of lemon zest, or a dusting of crushed almonds. Enjoy cold.