Baklava Ricotta Pistachio Cheesecake Bites
Baklava Ricotta Pistachio Cheesecake Bites combine the crisp crunch of phyllo pastry with a creamy ricotta cheesecake filling, topped with honey-soaked pistachios for a Mediterranean-inspired treat. These bite-sized desserts are easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for parties or snacking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 24 bites 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- Phyllo dough sheets (thawed)
- Unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (drained)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 3/4 cup roasted pistachios (shelled, roughly chopped)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin.
- Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions. Unroll and cover with a damp towel. Cut phyllo sheets into 2.5-inch squares.
- Layer 4 squares of phyllo per muffin cup, brushing each layer with melted butter. Gently press into cups to form shells.
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, cream cheese, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Spoon about 1 tablespoon of cheesecake filling into each phyllo shell, leaving space for topping.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until filling is set and phyllo edges are golden.
- While baking, mix pistachios, honey, cinnamon, and orange blossom water in a bowl.
- Remove bites from oven and immediately spoon nut mixture over each, pressing gently. Cool in tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
- Serve warm for gooey centers or chill in fridge for 30 minutes for firmer texture.
Notes
Drain ricotta well to avoid soggy bites. Work quickly with phyllo and keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel. Generously brush butter between layers for maximum crunch. Taste honey-nut topping before using, as honey strength varies. Bites can be made gluten-free or dairy-free with substitutions. Store in airtight container up to 4 days or freeze for 1 month.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bite
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 7
- Sodium: 70
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: baklava, ricotta, pistachio, cheesecake bites, phyllo, honey, Mediterranean dessert, easy dessert, party food, finger food