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The Best Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

The Best Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe

The Best Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake Recipe is a decadent dessert that beautifully blends creamy, smooth cheesecake with the crunchy, nutty layers of traditional baklava. Enriched with aromatic spices and rich pistachios, this dessert offers a unique fusion of Mediterranean and classic American flavors that is perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.

Ingredients

Phyllo Layers

  • Phyllo dough – about 8 to 10 sheets
  • Melted butter – 1 cup (for brushing)
  • Chopped pistachios – 1 cup (shelled)

Cheesecake Filling

  • Cream cheese – 24 oz (softened, room temperature)
  • Sugar – 1 cup
  • Eggs – 3 large
  • Vanilla extract – 1 tsp
  • Cinnamon – 1/2 tsp
  • Cardamom – 1/4 tsp

Honey Syrup

  • Honey – 1/2 cup
  • Water – 1/4 cup
  • Cinnamon – a pinch

Optional Ingredients

  • Walnuts or almonds – 1/2 cup (chopped, optional for mixing with pistachios)
  • Maple syrup or agave nectar – as honey alternative
  • Vegan cream cheese and coconut oil – for dairy-free variation
  • Nutmeg or allspice – for additional spice variations

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Phyllo Layers: Carefully layer sheets of phyllo dough in your baking pan, brushing each sheet lightly with melted butter to ensure crispiness and golden color after baking. Sprinkle chopped pistachios between some layers for added texture.
  2. Make the Cheesecake Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese with sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then incorporate vanilla extract, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
  3. Assemble the Cheesecake: Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the prepared phyllo base. Cover it with additional layers of phyllo and pistachios on top, finishing with a butter-brushed phyllo sheet to create a beautiful crust.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Bake the assembled cheesecake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 45 to 55 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  5. Prepare Honey Syrup and Cool: While the cheesecake bakes, combine honey, water, and a pinch of cinnamon in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer then remove from heat. Once the cheesecake is out of the oven and still warm, pour the warm syrup gently over it. Allow the cheesecake to soak in the syrup and cool completely before serving.

Notes

  • Keep phyllo sheets covered with a damp towel during preparation to prevent drying out.
  • Use cream cheese at room temperature for a smoother, lump-free filling.
  • Spread the cheesecake filling evenly to ensure consistent baking.
  • Pour syrup onto the cheesecake while it is still warm for optimal absorption.
  • Chill the cheesecake for several hours or overnight to firm up and enhance the flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: baklava cheesecake, pistachio cheesecake, baklava dessert, Mediterranean dessert, fusion cheesecake, holiday dessert