Berry Cheesecake Baklava is a creative and indulgent twist on the classic Middle Eastern pastry. This dessert merges the rich, flaky layers of traditional baklava with the creamy, tangy goodness of a cheesecake, all complemented by vibrant berries.
At its core, Berry Cheesecake Baklava begins with delicate sheets of phyllo dough, meticulously layered and brushed with melted butter to create a crisp, golden exterior. Each layer of phyllo is interspersed with a luscious cheesecake filling, which provides a creamy contrast to the crisp layers. This cheesecake filling is infused with a medley of fresh or lightly mashed berries, which add a burst of fruity flavor and a beautiful pop of color.
The baklava is then topped with a blend of finely chopped walnuts and pistachios, spiced with cinnamon and sweetened with sugar. This nut mixture not only adds texture and a nutty richness but also enhances the overall flavor profile with its warm, spiced notes. The final touch comes with a generous drizzle of warm syrup, made from sugar, water, and a hint of lemon juice, which seeps into every crevice of the baklava, making it irresistibly sweet and sticky.
Once baked to perfection, the Berry Cheesecake Baklava boasts a golden-brown, crispy exterior that encases a rich, creamy center. The combination of textures—from the crunchy phyllo to the smooth cheesecake and the chewy syrup-soaked layers—creates a decadent and satisfying dessert experience. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors, making it a unique and memorable treat.
Perfect for special occasions or as an elegant twist on a classic dessert, Berry Cheesecake Baklava stands out with its sophisticated flavor profile and beautiful presentation. It serves as a delightful ending to any meal, showcasing the perfect balance between traditional baklava and creamy cheesecake, all enhanced by the fresh burst of berries.
Ingredients:
For the Baklava:
- 1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (120g) walnuts, finely chopped
- 1 cup (120g) pistachios, finely chopped
- 1 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Berry Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup (150g) mixed berries (fresh or frozen, such as raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries), lightly mashed
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Berry Cheesecake Filling:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in the mashed berries until evenly distributed. Set aside.
- Prepare the Baklava Layers:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish with melted butter.
- Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the prepared baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet, until you have about 8 sheets layered.
- In a small bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, pistachios, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon.
- Spread a thin layer of the berry cheesecake filling evenly over the phyllo dough.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of the nut mixture over the filling.
- Continue layering phyllo dough, buttering each sheet, until you have used about 8 more sheets.
- Add another layer of berry cheesecake filling and top with the remaining nut mixture.
- Finish with the remaining phyllo dough, layering and buttering each sheet, until you have about 8 more sheets on top.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
- Bake the Baklava:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.
- Prepare the Syrup:
- While the baklava is baking, make the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the syrup cool slightly.
- Finish the Baklava:
- Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
- Allow the baklava to cool completely before serving, allowing the syrup to soak in and the layers to become tender.
- Serve:
- Serve the Berry Cheesecake Baklava at room temperature or slightly warmed.
Tips:
- Make sure to keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out.
- For best results, allow the baklava to sit for several hours or overnight to fully absorb the syrup and develop its flavors.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of berries or a combination of berries to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy your unique and delicious Berry Cheesecake Baklava!
