Description
Creamy Baklava Cheesecake combines the rich, nutty layers of traditional baklava with the smooth, luscious texture of cheesecake for a stunning and indulgent dessert.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds), finely chopped
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for nut mixture)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for cheesecake)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Phyllo pastry sheets (optional, for topping or layers)
- Additional chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap the outside with foil.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the pan to form a crust. Bake for 10 minutes and set aside to cool.
- In a bowl, combine chopped nuts, 1/4 cup sugar, and cinnamon. Spread half over the cooled crust if layering, or reserve for topping later.
- In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 3/4 cup sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add sour cream and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the crust (and nut layer, if using).
- If using phyllo, layer a few buttered sheets gently on top before baking for a baklava crust effect.
- Place the pan in a water bath and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until center is just set.
- While baking, make the honey syrup: combine honey, water, and lemon juice in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5 minutes, then cool.
- Once cheesecake is done, let cool for 15 minutes, then drizzle with honey syrup and sprinkle with reserved nuts.
- Cool completely, then refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
- Use high-quality honey for the best flavor.
- Gently handle phyllo sheets to avoid tearing if using.
- Best served chilled, with extra honey drizzle if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg