Honey Pistachio Baklava Cheesecake
Ingredients:
For the Cheesecake:
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 large eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Baklava Layers:
1/2 cup pistachios (chopped)
1/2 cup walnuts (chopped)
1 tsp cinnamon
10 sheets phyllo dough (thawed)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
For the Honey Syrup:
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
Prepare the Baklava Layers:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Mix the nuts: In a small bowl, combine the chopped pistachios, walnuts, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Layer the phyllo dough: Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the bottom of the springform pan, brushing it with melted butter. Repeat this process with 5 more sheets, buttering each one. Spread half of the nut mixture over the dough layers.
Add more layers: Add 5 more sheets of phyllo, buttering each one, then spread the remaining nut mixture over the top.
Prepare the Cheesecake:
Make the cheesecake filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until smooth.
Pour over the baklava: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared baklava layers.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Turn off the oven and let the cheesecake cool in the oven with the door slightly open for 1 hour.
Prepare the Honey Syrup:
Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the honey, water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Pour the syrup: Once the cheesecake has cooled, remove it from the oven and pour the honey syrup evenly over the top.
Chill and Serve:
Chill the cheesecake: Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish with additional chopped pistachios and a drizzle of honey.