Introduction
Baklava Cheesecake Bites are an elegant fusion dessert that blends the flaky, nut-filled layers of Middle Eastern baklava with the smooth, creamy richness of classic cheesecake. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of crunch, creaminess, and honeyed sweetness.
Ingredients
For the Baklava Crust
1 pack phyllo dough, thawed
200 g unsalted butter, melted
150 g finely chopped walnuts or pistachios
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling
500 g cream cheese, softened
150 g granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
100 g Greek yogurt
For the Honey Syrup
200 ml honey
100 ml water
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cinnamon stick
For the Topping
Chopped pistachios
Extra honey for drizzling
Instructions
Combine honey, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan.
Simmer gently for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
Preheat the oven to 160°C and line a baking pan or muffin tin.
Layer 6–8 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
Sprinkle cinnamon-mixed nuts between every few layers.
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract and Greek yogurt until creamy.
Pour the cheesecake mixture evenly over the phyllo nut base.
Bake for 30–35 minutes until set with a slight jiggle in the center.
How to Make
Remove the baked cheesecake from the oven while still hot.
Carefully pour the cooled honey syrup around the phyllo edges.
Allow the dessert to cool at room temperature.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to fully set.
Cut into small squares or remove individual bites from the tin.
Garnish with crushed pistachios and drizzle with honey before serving.
Variations
Add mini chocolate chips to the nut layer for a chocolate twist.
Infuse the honey syrup with rosewater or orange blossom water.
Top with fig, apricot, or date compote for a fruity balance.
Use almonds instead of walnuts or pistachios.
Add a pinch of cardamom to the nut mixture for deeper flavor.
Tips
Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while working.
Use room-temperature cream cheese and eggs for a smooth filling.
Avoid overbaking to prevent cracks in the cheesecake.
Pour cold syrup over hot pastry for crisp layers.
Chill thoroughly before cutting for clean slices.
Nutrition (Per Bite)
Calories: 280–340 kcal
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fat: 20 g
Protein: 5 g
Sugar: 22 g
Healthy Benefits
Nuts provide healthy fats and antioxidants.
Honey offers natural sweetness and trace minerals.
Greek yogurt adds protein and probiotics.
Homemade preparation avoids artificial additives.
Small portions encourage mindful indulgence.
Conclusion
Baklava Cheesecake Bites are a luxurious dessert that beautifully merges two iconic traditions. With their crisp phyllo layers, creamy center, and fragrant honey syrup, they make a stunning and memorable treat for holidays, gatherings, or special occasions. 🍯🍰
