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
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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
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2 tbsp sugar or honey
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Optional: 1–2 tbsp sesame seeds (for extra tahini flavor)
Filling
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16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
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1 cup (240g) tahini (well-stirred)
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1 cup (225g) crumbled sesame halva (plain or pistachio)
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¾ cup (150g) sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
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3 large eggs, room temp
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½ cup (120ml) Greek yogurt or sour cream
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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Optional: 1–2 tsp orange blossom or rose water (go light!)
Topping
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¼–⅓ cup honey, warmed for drizzling
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½ cup chopped pistachios (raw or lightly toasted)
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Extra halva crumbles (optional)
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Flaky salt (optional but ✨ amazing)
Instructions
1. Prep the Crust
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Stir together crushed biscuits, melted butter, sugar/honey, and sesame seeds.
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Press firmly into the bottom of a springform pan (line base with parchment if desired).
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Bake 8–10 minutes, then cool slightly.
2. Make the Filling
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In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth (avoid lumps).
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Add tahini, sugar/honey, and mix until creamy.
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Add eggs one at a time, mixing just until combined (do not overbeat).
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Add yogurt, vanilla, salt, and crushed halva, stir gently.
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Pour filling over crust and smooth the top.
3. Bake
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Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45–55 minutes, until edges are set but center is still slightly wobbly.
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Turn off oven, crack the door open, and let cheesecake cool inside 45 min (prevents cracking).
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Cool fully at room temp, then chill at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Finish & Serve
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Before serving, drizzle with warm honey.
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Scatter pistachios and extra halva over the top.
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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