Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake Base:
2 cups graham cracker crumbs or shortbread crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
24 oz (680g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup heavy cream
For the Baklava Layer:
1 cup chopped pistachios
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or other nuts (optional)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup honey
For the Phyllo Layers:
8-10 sheets of phyllo dough
1/2 cup melted butter
For the Syrup:
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Prepare the Cheesecake Base:
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until it resembles wet sand. Press into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool.
Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Add vanilla extract, sour cream, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth. Pour over the cooled crust.
Prepare the Baklava Layer:
In a bowl, combine chopped pistachios, nuts, sugar, cinnamon, and honey. Set aside.
Phyllo Layering:
Brush a sheet of phyllo dough with melted butter and layer over the cheesecake mixture. Repeat with 8-10 sheets, buttering each layer.
Spread the prepared baklava mixture over the phyllo layers.
Bake the Cheesecake:
Cover the pan loosely with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 1 hour or until the center is just set.
Allow the cheesecake to cool completely in the oven with the door slightly open. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Prepare the Syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine honey, water, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes. Let it cool slightly.
Assemble and Serve:
Pour the cooled syrup over the top of the cheesecake.
Garnish with additional chopped pistachios, and serve!
This Pistachio Baklava Cheesecake combines the best of creamy cheesecake and nutty, syrupy bak