Baklava Cheesecake Phyllo Cookies (Print Version)

Crispy phyllo parcels with creamy cheesecake filling, walnuts, and warm honey drizzle - a delightful Mediterranean-inspired treat.

# Ingredients:

→ Pastry Base

01 - 1 package phyllo dough, thawed
02 - 2 tbsp melted butter

→ Cheesecake Filling

03 - 1 cup cream cheese, softened
04 - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
05 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
07 - 1/2 tsp cinnamon

→ Topping

08 - 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
09 - 1/4 cup honey
10 - 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)

# Steps:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, Greek yogurt, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and well incorporated.
03 - Lay out one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean surface and brush with melted butter. Layer another sheet on top and brush again with butter. Repeat this process until you have 4-5 sheets stacked.
04 - Cut the phyllo stack into 2-inch strips. Spoon a small amount of the cheesecake mixture onto the center of each strip, then sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
05 - Fold the phyllo over the filling to form a triangle or rectangular shape.
06 - Place the formed cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
07 - While the cookies are baking, combine honey and ground cloves (if using) in a small saucepan and heat until warmed through.
08 - Once the cookies are out of the oven, drizzle the warm honey mixture over the top. Serve while still warm for best flavor and texture.

# Notes:

01 - These cookies combine the flaky texture of baklava with the creamy richness of cheesecake for an elegant fusion dessert.
02 - For best results, work quickly with phyllo dough as it tends to dry out. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel while working.