You’ve never experienced cheesecake like this before. Combining the rich, creamy texture of cheesecake with the sweet, nutty layers of baklava, this dessert is a showstopper that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of creamy cheesecake and crunchy baklava offers a delightful contrast in textures.
- Using honey syrup not only adds sweetness but also keeps the baklava layers moist.
- The recipe is customizable with different nuts or spices to suit your taste.
- It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert, as it needs time to set in the fridge.
- Despite its fancy appearance, the recipe is straightforward and uses simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds), finely chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Pastry brush
- Saucepan
Instructions
Prepare the Baklava Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Brush the bottom and sides of your springform pan with melted butter. Layer half of the phyllo sheets in the pan, brushing each sheet with butter as you go. Mix the chopped nuts, 1/2 cup sugar, and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the phyllo. Top with the remaining phyllo sheets, buttering each layer. Bake for 20 minutes until golden. Let cool slightly.
Make the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla. Pour over the baked baklava layer. Reduce oven to 325°F and bake for 50 minutes until the center is just set. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.
Prepare the Honey Syrup
While the cheesecake cools, combine honey, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Cool slightly, then pour over the cooled cheesecake. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Serve and Enjoy
Run a knife around the edge of the pan before releasing the springform. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping between cuts for clean slices. Serve chilled, garnished with additional nuts if desired.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, ensure your phyllo dough is fully thawed but still cold when you start working with it. If it’s too warm, it can become sticky and difficult to handle. When brushing the phyllo with butter, don’t skimp—each layer should be well-coated to ensure crispiness. For the cheesecake filling, make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to avoid lumps. Finally, patience is key with the honey syrup; let it cool slightly before pouring over the cheesecake to prevent it from absorbing too quickly and making the baklava soggy.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the mixed nuts for your favorite single variety, like all pistachios or walnuts, for a different flavor profile.
- Add a sprinkle of cardamom or cloves to the nut mixture for a warm spice note.
- Drizzle with chocolate sauce over the top before serving for a decadent twist.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different kind of sweetness.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the phyllo dough with a gluten-free alternative available in most grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t need to make any other adjustments.
How long does this cheesecake keep?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, your baklava cheesecake will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other flavors from your fridge.
Can I freeze baklava cheesecake?
Yes, you can freeze this cheesecake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect against freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Summary
This baklava cheesecake combines two beloved desserts into one unforgettable treat. With its layers of crispy phyllo, nutty filling, and creamy cheesecake, it’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re in the mood for something spectacular.
