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cheese baklava
Andrea

Cheese Baklava

Cheese Baklava is a delightful twist on the traditional dessert, combining the flaky layers of phyllo dough with a creamy cheese filling. This recipe offers a sweet and savory experience that's sure to impress.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 20 pieces
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: greek
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling
  • 500 grams cream cheese, softened
  • 100 grams granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (approximately 100 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Syrup
  • 200 grams granulated sugar
  • 240 ml water
  • 60 ml honey
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
For the Baklava
  • 12 sheets phyllo pastry, thawed
  • 115 grams unsalted butter, melted
  • 100 grams finely chopped walnuts
  • 50 grams finely chopped pistachios

Equipment

  • 13x9 inch baking pan

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Filling Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
  4.  Prepare the Syrup Make the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, and lemon juice.
  5. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  6. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Remove from heat and stir in the rose water, if using. Allow to cool.
  8. Assemble the Baklava Prepare the Phyllo: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  9. Brush a 13x9 inch baking pan with melted butter.
  10. Layer 6 sheets of phyllo dough in the pan, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
  11. Add the Filling: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the phyllo layers.
  12. Top with Nuts and Phyllo: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts and pistachios over the cream cheese layer.
  13. Layer the remaining 6 sheets of phyllo on top, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
  14. Cut and Bake: Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into squares or diamonds.
  15. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  16. Finish the Baklava Add the Syrup :Once baked, remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the top.
  17. Cool and Serve: Allow the baklava to cool to room temperature, letting the syrup soak in.
  18. Serve and enjoy this unique cheese baklava!

Notes

  1. Chocolate Cheese Baklava:
    • Melt chocolate with the butter used for layering. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the cheese filling for a rich, chocolatey twist.
  2. Nutty Cheese Baklava:
    • Add a mixture of chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pistachios, and almonds, into the cheese filling for added texture and flavor.
  3. Fruit-Infused Cheese Baklava:
    • Incorporate dried fruits like apricots or raisins into the cheese filling for a sweet and chewy contrast.
  4. Spiced Cheese Baklava:
    • Add spices like cardamom, cinnamon, or nutmeg to the cheese filling for a warm, aromatic flavor.
  5. Honey and Orange Blossom Cheese Baklava:
    • Drizzle honey and add a few drops of orange blossom water to the syrup for a fragrant and sweet finish.
  6. Savory Cheese Baklava:
    • Use a combination of feta and ricotta cheese in the filling, and add herbs like dill or parsley for a savory variation.
  7. Baklava Cheesecake:
    • Create a layered dessert by using a baklava crust and filling it with a creamy cheesecake mixture, topped with honey syrup and nuts.
  8. Lemon Zest Cheese Baklava:
    • Add lemon zest to the cheese filling for a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the sweetness.
  9. Maple Syrup Cheese Baklava:
    • Substitute honey with maple syrup in the syrup recipe for a unique flavor profile.
  10. Pistachio and Cream Cheese Baklava:
    • Blend cream cheese with crushed pistachios for the filling, enhancing the nutty flavor of the baklava.