Baklava Cheesecake is a luxurious dessert that beautifully combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the nutty, syrup-soaked layers of traditional baklava. This fusion dessert brings together crisp phyllo pastry, fragrant honey syrup, warm spices, and a smooth cheesecake filling in one stunning creation. The result is both elegant and deeply satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Baklava Cheesecake delivers layers of texture and flavor in every bite. The nut mixture provides crunch and warmth from cinnamon, while the cheesecake layer adds smoothness and richness.
It is a visually impressive dessert that makes a statement on any table. Despite its elegant appearance, the steps are manageable with careful preparation.
Another reason to love this recipe is its make-ahead convenience. Like most cheesecakes, it benefits from chilling, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It is ideal for holidays, celebrations, or whenever you want to serve something memorable.
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Baklava Cheesecake: A Decadent Fusion of Two Iconic Desserts
- Total Time: 5 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent Strawberry Shortcake Cheesecake featuring a creamy cheesecake layer, sweet strawberry topping, and a buttery shortcake crumble crust. This stunning dessert combines classic strawberry shortcake flavors with rich cheesecake texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed golden sandwich cookies or vanilla wafers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for strawberries)
- 1/2 cup crushed golden cookies (for topping)
- 2 tbsp strawberry gelatin powder (optional for color)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan and wrap bottom with foil.
- Mix crushed cookies with melted butter and press firmly into the bottom of the pan to form crust.
- Bake crust for 10 minutes, then let cool.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream.
- Pour cheesecake batter over cooled crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until center is slightly set but still jiggly.
- Turn off oven, crack door open, and let cheesecake cool gradually for 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Mix diced strawberries with sugar and let sit 10 minutes to release juices.
- Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form and spread over chilled cheesecake.
- Top with sweetened strawberries and sprinkle crushed cookies (and gelatin powder if using) for the shortcake effect.
Notes
- Avoid overmixing to prevent cracks.
- Use room temperature ingredients for smoother batter.
- Chill thoroughly before slicing for clean cuts.
- Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Phyllo pastry sheets
Form the crisp base and top layers, adding traditional baklava texture.
Unsalted butter (melted)
Brushed between phyllo layers for crispness and richness.
Mixed nuts (walnuts and pistachios)
Provide the signature baklava flavor and crunch.
Granulated sugar
Sweetens both the nut mixture and cheesecake filling.
Ground cinnamon
Adds warmth and depth to the nut layer.
Cream cheese
Creates the smooth and creamy cheesecake filling.
Eggs
Provide structure and stability to the cheesecake.
Vanilla extract
Enhances overall flavor.
Sour cream
Adds a slight tang and smooth texture.
Honey
Used in the syrup for authentic baklava sweetness.
Water
Combines with honey to create the syrup.
Lemon juice
Balances sweetness in the syrup.
Orange zest (optional)
Adds subtle citrus brightness to the honey syrup.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Layer several sheets of phyllo pastry in the pan, brushing each layer with melted butter. Allow the edges to extend slightly up the sides.
In a bowl, combine finely chopped nuts, sugar, and cinnamon. Sprinkle a portion of this mixture over the layered phyllo base.
In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently. Stir in vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
Pour the cheesecake filling over the nut layer. Sprinkle the remaining nut mixture evenly on top.
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until the center is set but slightly soft.
While the cheesecake cools, prepare the honey syrup by simmering honey, water, lemon juice, and orange zest (if using) for about 5 minutes. Allow to cool slightly.
Once the cheesecake has cooled, drizzle the honey syrup over the top, allowing it to soak into the nut layer.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before slicing and serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 55–65 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours
Total time: About 5 hours 30 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store the cheesecake covered in the refrigerator for up to five days.
It is best served chilled or slightly softened at room temperature. This dessert can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations and Customizations
Baklava Cheesecake can be customized to suit your taste. You may use exclusively walnuts or pistachios instead of a mix. I have tried adding a pinch of ground cardamom to the nut mixture, which added a subtle aromatic note.
For extra texture, add an additional layer of phyllo on top before baking, brushing generously with butter for crispness.
If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of honey syrup slightly. You can also drizzle dark chocolate over the top for a modern twist.
For a lighter filling, substitute part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt. This maintains creaminess while slightly reducing richness.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving (based on 12 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 44 g |
| Fat | 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 17 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Sodium | 310 mg |
Values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Handle Phyllo Carefully
Keep unused sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
Do Not Overbake
The center should remain slightly soft for best texture.
Cool Gradually
Allow the cheesecake to cool slowly to prevent cracks.
Add Syrup After Cooling
Drizzle syrup once cooled to preserve crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought chopped nuts?
Yes, but ensure they are finely chopped for even texture.
Does the syrup make the cheesecake soggy?
When added gradually after cooling, it enhances flavor without oversaturating.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it benefits from overnight chilling.
Is a water bath necessary?
It is optional but helps create a smoother texture.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
You can reduce the honey syrup slightly if desired.
How long does it last?
Up to five days in the refrigerator when properly covered.
Conclusion
Baklava Cheesecake is an indulgent dessert that merges creamy cheesecake with the nutty, syrup-infused elegance of baklava. With its layers of texture and flavor, it offers a memorable twist on two beloved classics. Perfect for celebrations or special occasions, this fusion dessert is sure to impress every guest at your table.
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