Pistachio Kataifi Cheesecake Bars (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Graham Cracker Crust
01 -
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
02 -
3 tablespoons sugar
03 -
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
→ Cheesecake
04 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 -
1/2 cup sugar
06 -
1/4 cup pistachio cream
07 -
2 tablespoons whole milk
08 -
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
09 -
1 large egg, room temperature
→ Kataifi Filling
10 -
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 -
2 1/2 cups frozen shredded phyllo dough (kataifi)
12 -
3/4 cup pistachio cream
13 -
2 tablespoons tahini
→ Ganache
14 -
4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
15 -
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
16 -
Crushed pistachios (optional)
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, letting the ends extend over the sides. Combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a large bowl until moistened. Press mixture into the prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, or until edges begin to brown. Remove and cool completely on a wire rack.
02 -
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Mix in pistachio cream, milk, and vanilla extract until incorporated. Add the egg and mix until just combined. Pour over the cooled crust. Bake for 20-22 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or until the center is almost set. Remove from oven, cool completely on a wire rack, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
03 -
Melt butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add frozen shredded kataifi dough and toast for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Let cool. In a large bowl, combine the toasted kataifi, pistachio cream, and tahini. Spread the mixture evenly over the chilled cheesecake layer. Refrigerate.
04 -
Place chopped chocolate in a heat-safe bowl. Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan until it reaches a simmer. Pour cream over the chocolate and let sit for 1 minute. Whisk until smooth. Pour the ganache over the kataifi layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
05 -
Using the parchment paper, lift the bars out of the baking pan. Slice into squares and, if desired, garnish with crushed pistachios. Serve chilled.
# Notes:
01 -
This dessert transforms the flavors and textures of a Dubai chocolate bar into creamy cheesecake bars. Perfect for special occasions.