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Delicious Baklava Cheesecake topped with nuts and honey on a plate

Baklava Cheesecake

A delightful fusion of cheesecake and baklava, this dessert features a creamy filling topped with a nutty, crunchy layer, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Middle Eastern
Servings 12 pieces
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the crust

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed digestive biscuits
  • 1/2 cup melted butter adds richness and moisture
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar for caramel flavor

For the baklava layer

  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pistachios and walnuts for crunch and flavor
  • 2 tbsp sugar to sweeten nuts
  • 1 tsp cinnamon adds warmth
  • 2 tbsp melted butter for nut mixture
  • 2 tbsp honey for sweetness

For the cheesecake filling

  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened provides creamy texture
  • 3/4 cup sugar for sweetness
  • 3 large eggs binds filling
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt adds tangy richness
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice to brighten flavor
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch helps set cheesecake
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract adds aroma

For the phyllo topping

  • 6-8 sheets phyllo dough creates crispy topping
  • 1/4 cup melted butter to brush onto phyllo

For the honey syrup

  • 1/2 cup honey sweetens topping
  • 1/4 cup water for syrup consistency
  • 2 tbsp sugar for added sweetness
  • 1 tsp lemon juice complements flavors
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon enhances taste

For serving

  • Chopped pistachios for garnish
  • Whipped cream or Greek yogurt to serve

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
  • In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until blended. Press the mixture into the bottom of the pan to form an even crust. Bake for about 8-10 minutes and set aside to cool.

Nutty Baklava Layer

  • In a bowl, mix together chopped pistachios, walnuts, sugar, cinnamon, melted butter, and honey. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled crust.

Cheesecake Filling

  • In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Incorporate eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in Greek yogurt, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until fully blended.
  • Pour the cheesecake filling over the baklava layer in the pan.

Baking

  • Place the cheesecake in the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool inside for about 1 hour.

Phyllo Topping

  • While the cheesecake cools, brush phyllo sheets with melted butter, layer them on top of the cheesecake, and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.

Honey Syrup

  • In a saucepan, combine honey, water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Heat until simmering, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Drizzle the warm syrup over the cheesecake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Serving

  • Before serving, sprinkle with chopped pistachios and add a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt.

Notes

To enhance flavor, consider adding nutmeg with cinnamon. Toast nuts for a stronger flavor. Handle phyllo dough carefully to prevent tearing.
Keyword Baklava, Baklava Cheesecake, Cheesecake, Dessert Recipe, Layered Dessert