Description
Tahini Halva Cheesecake is a Middle Eastern-inspired dessert that blends traditional cheesecake elements with the nutty, sweet flavors commonly found in Middle Eastern sweets. Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, forms the base of the creamy filling, giving the cheesecake its distinct nutty flavor. The crumbled halva, a dense confection made from sesame seeds and sugar, adds sweetness and texture. The addition of honey and pistachios elevates the dessert with a floral sweetness and satisfying crunch.
Ingredients
Crust
1 ½ cups (150g) crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits
(or use tea biscuits, Biscoff, or even crushed sesame cookies)6 tbsp (85g) melted butter
2 tbsp sugar or honey
Optional: 1–2 tbsp sesame seeds (for extra tahini flavor)
Filling
16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup (240g) tahini (well-stirred)
1 cup (225g) crumbled sesame halva (plain or pistachio)
¾ cup (150g) sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
3 large eggs, room temp
½ cup (120ml) Greek yogurt or sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional: 1–2 tsp orange blossom or rose water (go light!)
Topping
¼–⅓ cup honey, warmed for drizzling
½ cup chopped pistachios (raw or lightly toasted)
Extra halva crumbles (optional)
Flaky salt (optional but ✨ amazing)
Instructions
1. Prep the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Stir together crushed biscuits, melted butter, sugar/honey, and sesame seeds.
Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan (line base with parchment if desired).
Bake 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
2. Make the Filling
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth (avoid lumps).
Add tahini, sugar/honey, and mix until creamy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined (do not overbeat).
Add yogurt, vanilla, salt, and crushed halva, stir gently.
Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.
3. Bake
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45–55 minutes, until edges are set but center is still slightly wobbly.
Turn off oven, crack the door open, and let cheesecake cool inside 45 min (prevents cracking).
Cool fully at room temp, then chill at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Finish & Serve
Before serving, drizzle with warm honey.
Scatter pistachios and extra halva over the top.
Add a tiny sprinkle of flaky salt if desired (incredible contrast).
Notes
This Tahini Halva Cheesecake with Honey & Pistachios is a decadent dessert that combines nutty tahini, sweet halva, and creamy cheesecake for a Middle Eastern-inspired treat. Drizzle extra honey and sprinkle chopped pistachios on top for added flavor and a beautiful presentation.
- Prep Time: 30 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
Keywords: Middle Eastern Cheesecake, Halva Cheesecake, Tahini Cheesecake