A heavenly fusion of creamy cheesecake and nutty, syrupy baklava, perfect for special occasions. 🎂✨
Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake Base:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs or shortbread crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted 🧈
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs 🥚
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Baklava Layer:
- 1 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or other nuts (optional) 🌰
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup honey 🍯
For the Phyllo Layers:
- 8-10 sheets of phyllo dough
- 1/2 cup melted butter
For the Syrup:
- 1/2 cup honey 🍯
- 1/2 cup water 💧
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice 🍋
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Cheesecake Base:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
2️⃣ Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth. Pour over the cooled crust.
3️⃣ Prepare the Baklava Layer:
- In a bowl, combine chopped pistachios, nuts, sugar, cinnamon, and honey. Set aside.
4️⃣ Phyllo Layering:
- Brush a sheet of phyllo dough with melted butter and layer over the cheesecake mixture. Repeat with 8-10 sheets, buttering each layer.
- Spread the prepared baklava mixture over the phyllo layers.
5️⃣ Bake the Cheesecake:
- Cover the pan loosely with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 1 hour or until the center is just set.
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the oven with the door slightly open. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6️⃣ Prepare the Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, water, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
7️⃣ Assemble and Serve:
- Pour the cooled syrup over the top of the cheesecake.
- Garnish with additional chopped pistachios, and serve!
Enjoy this decadent Pistachio Baklava Cheesecake—rich, nutty, and simply divine! 🎂✨