Description

Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or special occasions, this showstopping dessert delivers layers of texture and flavor that wow with every bite. Whether you’re a cheesecake lover, a baklava fan, or both, this unique dessert is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ½ cups walnuts, finely chopped

1 ½ cups pistachios, finely chopped

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground cardamom

¼ teaspoon ground cloves

¼ cup granulated sugar

🧈 For the Phyllo Crust and Layers:

1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

1 damp kitchen towel (to cover phyllo while working)

🍰 For the Cheesecake Filling:

3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened

¾ cup granulated sugar

½ cup sour cream

3 large eggs

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

🍯 For the Honey Syrup:

½ cup honey

¼ cup water

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 cinnamon stick

2–3 strips lemon zest

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Instructions

Prepare the Nut Filling

In a bowl, mix together:
- 1½ cups chopped walnuts
- 1½ cups chopped pistachios
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Set aside. This spiced nut blend adds crunch and warm flavor layers.

Make the Cheesecake Filling

Using a stand or hand mixer, beat 3 packages of softened cream cheese until smooth.
Add ¾ cup granulated sugar and beat until well combined.
Mix in ½ cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Add 3 eggs, one at a time, beating just until incorporated. Scrape down the sides and avoid overmixing.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for the cheesecake filling to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.

Handle phyllo with care: Keep the dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent it from drying out and tearing.

Don’t skip the syrup: The honey-lemon syrup adds moisture and that signature baklava sweetness. Drizzle right before serving to keep the top crisp.

Chill thoroughly: For best texture and clean slices, refrigerate the cheesecake overnight before cutting.

Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 520 kcal
Sugar: 29 g
Sodium: 210 mg
Fat: 36 g
Saturated Fat: 16 g
Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 43 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 8 g
Cholesterol: 105 mg