Ingredients
Scale
For the Phyllo Crust:
- 1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough (thawed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cheesecake Filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For the Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pistachios (unsalted)
- 1/4 cup honey (for drizzling)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Phyllo Crust
- Layer Phyllo Dough: Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. Place one sheet of phyllo in the bottom of the springform pan and brush it with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet, until you have about 8–10 layers.
- Add Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle a thin layer of this mixture over the phyllo layers.
- Continue Layering: Continue layering phyllo and brushing with butter until you have used about half of the phyllo dough. Add another layer of the sugar-cinnamon mixture, then continue layering with the remaining phyllo, brushing with butter each time, until all the dough is used. Trim any excess phyllo hanging over the edges.
Step 3: Make the Cheesecake Filling
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add Sugar and Honey: Gradually add the granulated sugar and honey, mixing until well combined.
- Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour Filling: Pour the cheesecake filling over the prepared phyllo crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the center is set and the edges are lightly golden. The cheesecake may slightly jiggle in the center but will firm up as it cools.
- Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. Then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
Step 5: Add Topping and Serve
- Top with Pistachios: Before serving, sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the top of the cheesecake. Drizzle with additional honey and sprinkle with ground cinnamon if desired.
- Slice and Enjoy: Carefully remove the sides of the springform pan, slice the cheesecake, and serve chilled.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 50