Ingredients
Kataifi Base Ingredients


Cheesecake Filling Ingredients






Raspberry Layer Ingredients



Instructions
Step 1
Begin by carefully separating the kataifi dough into thin strips. Brush the strips with melted butter until fully coated.
Next, press the buttered kataifi into the bottom and sides of a 18 cm (7 inch) round baking pan.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until the dough is golden brown and crispy.Step 2
In a food processor, combine the eggs, cream cheese, sugar, heavy cream, and pistachio paste. Blend until you have a smooth and creamy mixture.
Pour this filling into the prepared kataifi crust.Set the baking pan inside a larger tray filled with hot water halfway up the sides to create a water bath. Bake at 110°C (230°F) for 1 to 1.5 hours.
Check the cake by gently shaking the pan; if the center slightly jiggles, it is ready. If it’s still too liquid, bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.Step 3
Once baked, remove the cheesecake from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator until completely set before removing it from the pan.
Step 4
In a saucepan, mix the raspberries, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat over medium flame until the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.
Once thickened, pour it over the cooled cheesecake.Chill the cheesecake in the refrigerator for another two hours to set the raspberry layer.
Step 5
Once chilled, garnish the cheesecake with crushed pistachios if desired. Slice and serve the delectable pistachio raspberry cheesecake for a delightful treat at your next gathering!
Servings
When it comes to serving your Raspberry-Pistachio Cheesecake, **the possibilities are endless!** 🌟 For a truly stunning presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios and a few fresh raspberries on top. This adds a vibrant pop of color that's sure to impress your guests!
Pair it with a dollop of lightly whipped cream on the side or serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. 🥳 For a fun twist, consider serving small slices with fruit kebabs for a picnic-style dessert platter that everyone will love. 🍓🍏
And don’t forget to enjoy your cheesecake with a refreshing drink! A glass of sparkling lemonade or a cup of herbal tea complements the flavors beautifully, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. 🍵🥤
Equipment
A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining the cheesecake ingredients smoothly. Choose one that is large enough to accommodate your mixture.



This is great for blending the filling ingredients into a creamy consistency. Make sure it’s cleaned thoroughly to avoid any flavor mingling.
An essential for cheesecakes; this will help you release the cake without any hassle. Ensure it's well-greased to avoid sticking!
Your oven needs to maintain a low temperature, so ensure it's calibrated and working well. An oven thermometer can help with accuracy.



Place this at the bottom of the oven with hot water to create a steam effect - this keeps your cheesecake moist and helps achieve that perfect texture!



Variations
Looking for gluten-free or vegan options? Check this out!
To make a **gluten-free cheesecake**, simply ensure that your kataifi dough is certified gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground nuts for the crust if needed. 🌾🚫
If you're seeking a **vegan version**, replace the cream cheese with a rich cashew cream or store-bought vegan cream cheese. Use aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) to replace eggs. Just whip it until fluffy and fold into your batter. 🌱✨
For additional flavor, you can experiment with adding vegan chocolate chips or coconut cream to your raspberry layer!
Faq
- What type of cream cheese should I use?
For the best flavor, use full-fat cream cheese. It gives a rich, creamy texture to your cheesecake.
- Can I make this cheesecake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cheesecake is perfect to make a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve.
- Can I substitute the sugars in this recipe?
Yes, you can use alternatives like coconut sugar or a sugar substitute that's suitable for baking if needed.
- What should I do if my cheesecake cracks?
Cracks can happen if the cheesecake rises too quickly. Next time, try a water bath and ensure your oven isn't set too hot!
- What's the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze slices for longer storage.
- How do I know when the cheesecake is fully baked?
The edges should be set while the center will still be a bit jiggly. It will firm up as it cools in the fridge.