Mini Baklava Cheesecakes Recipe
Introduction
Baklava, with its flaky phyllo layers, honey, and spiced nuts, is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert. Cheesecake, on the other hand, is a creamy classic loved worldwide. When combined into mini baklava cheesecakes, you get the best of both worlds: a crunchy nut-filled base, silky cheesecake center, and golden phyllo topping drizzled with honey syrup. These little desserts are not only delicious but also look stunning for any occasion.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cooling & Chilling: 1–2 hours
Total Time: ~2.5 hours
Servings: 12 mini cheesecakes
Ingredients
For the Nut Filling
1 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds – finely chopped)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Layer
12 sheets phyllo pastry (cut into circles to fit muffin tin)
4 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing phyllo)
12 oz (340 g) cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
For the Syrup
1/3 cup honey
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
Prepare the Nut Filling
Mix chopped nuts, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
Prepare the Phyllo Base
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a muffin tin.
Cut phyllo sheets into circles to fit muffin cups.
Layer 3 phyllo circles per cup, brushing each with melted butter.
Add the Nut Mixture
Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of nut filling into each phyllo cup.
Make the Cheesecake Batter
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
Add egg and vanilla; mix until combined.
Fold in Greek yogurt/sour cream.
Assemble
Pour cheesecake batter over the nut layer, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
Sprinkle a few more nuts on top.
Bake
Bake for 22–25 minutes, until centers are set.
Cool in the pan, then chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours.
Make the Syrup
In a saucepan, combine honey, water, and lemon juice. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Let cool slightly.
Serve
Drizzle cooled syrup over cheesecakes before serving.
Garnish with crushed pistachios or a drizzle of chocolate if desired.
Tips
Keep phyllo pastry covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying.
Use a food processor to chop nuts finely but not into powder.
These can be made 1 day ahead and stored in the fridge.
For extra crunch, add a top layer of phyllo before baking.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Conclusion
Mini Baklava Cheesecakes are a delightful treat that combines the nutty crunch of baklava with the creamy richness of cheesecake. They’re portion-sized, easy to serve, and guaranteed to impress your guests. With golden phyllo, sweet honey drizzle, and spiced nuts, every bite is pure bliss.