Baklava Cheesecake

Name: Baklava Cheesecake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped; 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 package of phyllo dough (about 12 sheets); 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup water; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Author: Noah Reed

Published: February 28, 2025

Delicious slice of baklava cheesecake topped with nuts and honey drizzle

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Baklava Cheesecake is a delicious fusion of two classic desserts, adding a unique twist to your regular cheesecake with layered phyllo dough and nutty flavors reminiscent of traditional baklava.

This dreamy dessert combines the creamy texture of cheesecake with the irresistible crunch of nuts and sweet syrup, offering a delightful treat that will impress family and friends. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to follow, making it a wonderful addition to your dessert repertoire. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe with a detailed step-by-step guide.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the greatest things about Baklava Cheesecake is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this dessert allows anyone, regardless of their baking experience, to create something that feels gourmet.

It’s perfect for serving at family gatherings or festive celebrations, offering a balance of creamy and flaky textures in every bite. Plus, the unique combination of flavors not only pleases the palate but also evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding you of warm gatherings and sweet moments shared with loved ones. This recipe truly is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients

To make this heavenly Baklava Cheesecake, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup walnuts, finely chopped: These nuts add a delightful, earthy crunch.
1 cup pistachios, finely chopped: Brightly colored and slightly sweet, pistachios complement the flavors perfectly.
1/2 cup melted butter: Rich and buttery, it binds the crust together beautifully.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetness that balances the nuttiness.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavors.
1 package of phyllo dough (about 12 sheets): Creates the signature flaky texture of baklava.
16 oz cream cheese, softened: Creamy and rich, forming the base of the cheesecake.
1 cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess to the filling.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cheesecake, balancing the tangy flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Aromatic and sweet, enhancing the dessert’s overall flavor.
3 large eggs: Binds the filling together for a smooth consistency.
1/2 cup honey: Sweet and sticky, drizzled on top for that baklava-style finish.
1/4 cup water: Helps to create the syrup.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Additional sweetness for the syrup.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Used again for flavor enhancement in the syrup.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Complements the honey syrup with a warm aroma.

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cheesecake will bake evenly and turn out perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Nut Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts, 1 cup of finely chopped pistachios, 1/2 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until the nuts are well coated.

Step 3: Layer the Phyllo Dough

Brush a 9-inch springform pan with melted butter. Then, start layering 5 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing melted butter between each sheet to ensure they stick together and remain crispy. This creates the flaky base for your cheesecake.

Step 4: Add the Nut Mixture

After laying the phyllo, evenly spread the nut mixture on top of the dough. Compact it gently to form an even layer.

Step 5: Bake the Crust

Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Once done, let it cool to room temperature.

Step 6: Make the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat 16 oz of softened cream cheese until smooth. Then, add 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined. Gradually incorporate 3 large eggs, mixing one at a time until fully integrated.

Step 7: Pour the Filling

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled nut crust and gently fold the edges of the phyllo dough over the cheesecake filling. It doesn’t need to be perfect; the folds will add a rustic charm.

Step 8: Bake the Cheesecake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until it’s set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Step 9: Make the Honey Syrup

While the cheesecake is baking, prepare the syrup by boiling 1/2 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of water, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small saucepan. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 10: Cool and Refrigerate

After baking, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for optimal flavor and texture.

Step 11: Serve with Honey Drizzle

Before serving, carefully drizzle the honey syrup over the chilled cheesecake. Slice and serve, enjoying the delicious combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy baklava-like crust.

Tips & Tricks

To enhance your Baklava Cheesecake even further, consider these tips:

Use High-Quality Ingredients: If possible, select organic eggs and fresh spices to elevate the flavors.
Add a Splash of Citrus: A little lemon zest in the filling can brighten the flavors.
Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to mix different nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for variety.
Serve Warm or Chilled: While this cheesecake is delicious chilled, a slightly warm serving can create a delightful contrast to the cold honey syrup.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Baklava Cheesecake can be served on its own or alongside some delightful pairings. Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess. Additionally, pairing it with a strong cup of Turkish coffee or a cup of chai can enhance the flavors and create a lovely dessert experience. This cheesecake is also perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, holidays, or even as a sweet finish to a dinner party.

Nutritional Information

A single slice of Baklava Cheesecake contains approximately 350 calories. Each slice offers a good balance of protein from the cream cheese and eggs, combined with fats from the nuts and buttery crust. While it’s essential to enjoy desserts like this in moderation, indulging isn’t a sin, particularly when it brings joy to your table.

Storing Tips & Variations

To store your Baklava Cheesecake, cover it tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them securely to prevent freezer burn.

If you want to experiment with variations, try adding different flavored extracts like almond for a nutty twist, or incorporate some chocolate into the pie crust for extra decadence. You could also layer fresh fruit, such as pomegranate seeds, on top for a beautiful presentation.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve discovered the joy of making Baklava Cheesecake, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe. The combination of creamy cheesecake with a nutty baklava-inspired crust is a unique and indulgent treat that’s sure to leave a lasting impression. Don’t forget to share your experience and any personal twists you’ve added along the way!

FAQs

1. Can I make Baklava Cheesecake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cheesecake can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it chill overnight enhances the flavors.

2. Can I substitute the nuts in the recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use any combination of nuts you prefer, such as almonds or hazelnuts, if you want to switch things up.

3. Is there an alternative to phyllo dough?

While phyllo dough gives that unique texture, you could use graham cracker crumbs mixed with melted butter as a substitute for the crust.

4. How do I know when the cheesecake is done baking?

The cheesecake should be set around the edges and have a slight jiggle in the center. It will continue to firm up as it cools.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can make the cheesecake filling gluten-free, but you will need to use gluten-free phyllo dough or create a crust using crushed gluten-free cookies instead.