🍰 Pistachio Baklava Cheesecake (Crispy, Creamy & Syrupy)

⏰ Best for:

Dessert / Special occasions

🔥 Calories (approx):

500–650 kcal per slice

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 8–10)

Base (Baklava Layer):

• 200 g pistachios (finely chopped)
• 100 g walnuts (optional)
• 80 g sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 100 g melted butter
• 8–10 sheets phyllo dough

Cheesecake Filling:

• 500 g cream cheese (room temperature)
• 120 g sugar
• 2 eggs
• 200 ml heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Top Phyllo Layer:

• 5–6 sheets phyllo dough
• 50 g melted butter

Syrup:

• 150 ml water
• 120 g sugar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• Optional: rose water or orange blossom water

Garnish:

• Whole pistachios
• Crushed pistachios
• Edible flowers (optional, for presentation)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the syrup (do this first)

Combine water, sugar, and honey in a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Add lemon juice and optional floral water.
Let cool completely.

2. Make the baklava base

Brush a baking pan with butter.
Layer 4–5 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with butter.
Mix pistachios, walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon.
Spread evenly over the phyllo layers.

3. Add cheesecake filling

In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing gently.
Add cream, vanilla, and cornstarch.
Pour mixture over the pistachio layer.

4. Top with phyllo

Layer remaining phyllo sheets on top, brushing each with butter.
Trim edges neatly.

5. Bake

Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F).
Bake for 50–60 minutes until golden and set.

6. Add syrup

Once baked and still warm, slowly pour cooled syrup over the top.
Let it absorb fully.

7. Chill

Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours (overnight is best).

8. Garnish & serve

Top with pistachios and edible flowers before serving.

💡 Tips for Best Results

• Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
• Do not overmix cheesecake batter to avoid cracks.
• Pour syrup slowly to keep layers crisp yet moist.
• Use high-quality pistachios for the best flavor.

⚡ Energy-Saving Tips

• Bake multiple desserts together if using the oven.
• Turn off oven slightly early and let residual heat finish baking.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who This Dessert Is Perfect For

• Fans of Middle Eastern desserts
• People who love rich, layered textures
• Special occasions or premium dessert menus