Description
Transform your dessert table with this Honey Baklava Cheesecake, a luxurious fusion of flaky, nutty baklava and creamy cheesecake. With layers of buttery phyllo, spiced nuts, and a luscious honey-infused cheesecake filling, this show-stopping dessert is perfect for any celebration or as a sweet indulgence for yourself.
Ingredients
For the Baklava Layers:
- 1 package of phyllo dough (thawed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups mixed nuts (pistachios, walnuts, almonds)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 2 packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Optional Garnishes:
-
- Additional honey for drizzling
- Extra chopped nuts
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature ensures even baking without over-browning the phyllo layers.
2. Prepare the Nut Mixture:
In a food processor, combine the mixed nuts, cinnamon, and granulated sugar. Pulse until finely chopped but not powdered. Set the mixture aside.
3. Layer the Phyllo Dough:
- Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Layer half of the phyllo sheets in the dish, brushing each sheet generously with butter. Keep the remaining phyllo covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
4. Add the Nut Mixture:
Spread the prepared nut mixture evenly over the layered phyllo dough.
5. Add the Remaining Phyllo Layers:
Layer the remaining phyllo sheets on top of the nut mixture, again brushing each sheet with melted butter. Tuck in the edges neatly for a clean finish.
6. Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and ricotta cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the honey, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Mix until fully combined and free of lumps.
7. Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake mixture over the phyllo and nut layers, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the phyllo is golden brown.
8. Cool and Garnish:
- Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the baking dish.
- Drizzle with additional honey and sprinkle with extra chopped nuts before serving.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice into squares or wedges and serve at room temperature or chilled.
Notes
- Thawing Phyllo Dough: Thaw phyllo dough in the refrigerator overnight, and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before use.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream cheese with non-dairy cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Serving Tip: Pair with a cup of strong coffee or tea for the perfect dessert experience.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American