Experience the luxurious blend of creamy cheesecake and Middle Eastern baklava with this Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake. Featuring a buttery pistachio shortbread crust, honey-infused cheesecake filling, and a crisp baklava topping, this dessert is perfect for celebrations, family dinners, or any occasion that calls for a show-stopping sweet treat. Every bite delivers a delightful crunch paired with smooth, rich flavor that will impress your guests.
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Ingredients
For the Pistachio Shortbread Crust
- 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (95 g) powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped pistachios
For the Baklava Topping
- 14 oz (400 g) filo (phyllo) dough, store-bought
- 1 cup (120 g) finely chopped pistachios
- 1/3 cup (75 g) butter, melted and cooled
- 3 tablespoons (45 g) white sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup (30 g) water
- 1/4 cup (50 g) honey
For the Cheesecake Filling
- 24 oz (675 g) cream cheese
- 1/3 cup (125 g) honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream (15–20% fat)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions for Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
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Step 2: Prepare the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt until creamy.
- Gradually mix in flour and chopped pistachios.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.
Step 4: Make the Baklava Topping
- Layer filo sheets on a baking sheet, brushing each with melted butter.
- Sprinkle finely chopped pistachios mixed with sugar over the top.
- Drizzle lemon juice, water, and honey over the layers.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden brown.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add honey, eggs, egg yolk, sour cream, and salt; mix until fully combined.
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Step 6: Assemble and Bake
- Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled crust.
- Arrange pieces of baklava on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes until the center is set.
Step 7: Cool and Chill
Let the cheesecake cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight).
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Pro Tips
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures smooth, lump-free cheesecake batter.
- Avoid Overmixing: Prevents cracks and maintains creamy texture.
- Water Bath: Baking in a water bath helps regulate temperature and prevents cracking.
- Gradual Cooling: Cool in the oven with door ajar for best structure.
Why This Recipe Works
- Decadent Flavor: Pistachios and honey create a rich, luxurious taste.
- Textural Contrast: Crispy baklava complements the creamy cheesecake.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or casual gatherings.
- Beautiful Presentation: Elegant layers make it a showstopper.
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap pistachios for walnuts or almonds.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for extra warmth.
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a slightly different flavor profile.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave on medium for 30–45 seconds.
Serving Ideas For Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake
- Garnish with chopped pistachios and a drizzle of honey.
- Pair with fresh berries or citrus slices for a balanced taste.
- Top with whipped cream for extra indulgence.
- Serve with coffee or herbal tea for a complete dessert experience.
Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake?
A dessert combining creamy honey cheesecake with a crunchy pistachio baklava topping.
How do I know when it’s done?
The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly.
Can I customize it?
Yes, swap nuts, adjust sweetness, or add spices like cinnamon or cardamom.
How long does it take to make?
Approximately 90 minutes, plus at least 4 hours of chilling.
Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake is a decadent fusion dessert that impresses both visually and in flavor. Its creamy filling and crunchy baklava layers create the perfect balance of textures, making it ideal for special occasions or any time you want to treat your loved ones. Customize with your favorite nuts or spices to make it uniquely yours!
Baklava Pistachio Cheesecake
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- baking sheets
- Oven
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pistachios
- 14 oz filo (phyllo) dough
- 1 cup finely chopped pistachios
- 1/3 cup butter, melted and cooled
- 3 tbsp white sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey
- 24 oz cream cheese
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix in flour and chopped pistachios, then press evenly into a greased 9-inch springform pan.
- Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool.
- Layer filo sheets on a baking sheet, brushing each with melted butter. Sprinkle pistachios mixed with sugar over the layers, drizzle with lemon juice, water, and honey, then bake for 20 minutes until golden.
- Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add honey, eggs, egg yolk, sour cream, and salt, mixing until fully combined.
- Pour cheesecake filling over the cooled crust. Arrange baked baklava pieces on top and bake for 40–45 minutes until the center is set.
- Cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Notes
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