Layered Phyllo Pastry with Cream Sauce

Layered Phyllo Pastry with Cream Sauce (Baklava-Style Cheesecake)

Introduction

When it comes to desserts that dazzle both the eyes and the taste buds, layered phyllo pastry with cream sauce stands in a league of its own.

This indulgent treat combines the flaky, buttery layers of phyllo dough with a luscious cream sauce, offering a dessert that is as light and airy as it is rich and satisfying.

Imagine golden-baked pastry sheets soaking up a silky, creamy topping that melts in your mouth with every bite.

This recipe draws inspiration from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean desserts, such as baklava and galaktoboureko, but with a simpler, more accessible twist.

It’s perfect for those looking to elevate their dessert game without needing professional baking skills.

Whether you serve it at a festive gathering or as a luxurious after-dinner treat, this dish is sure to impress.

Let’s explore the step-by-step process to create this irresistible dessert that’s both elegant and comforting.

Ingredients

For the Phyllo Layers:

1 package of phyllo dough (approximately 16 sheets, thawed if frozen)

1/2 cup (120 g) of unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup (50 g) of granulated sugar

For the Cream Sauce:

2 cups (480 ml) of whole milk

1 cup (240 ml) of heavy cream

1/2 cup (100 g) of granulated sugar

3 tablespoons (24 g) of cornstarch

2 teaspoons of vanilla extract

2 egg yolks

For Garnish:

Powdered sugar for dusting

Drizzle of honey or sweetened condensed milk (optional)

Toasted nuts (optional, for texture and flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Phyllo Layers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a round or rectangular baking dish.

Lay out the phyllo sheets on a clean, dry surface, covering them with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

Place one sheet of phyllo dough into the baking dish and brush it generously with melted butter. Repeat this process, layering and buttering each sheet until you’ve used half the phyllo sheets.

Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly across the top of the phyllo layers.

Continue layering and buttering the remaining phyllo sheets, finishing with a buttered top layer. Use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into squares or diamond shapes for easy serving.

Step 2: Bake the Phyllo Pastry

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on it to ensure the edges don’t burn. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks and slowly temper them by adding a ladle of the hot milk mixture while whisking vigorously. Pour the tempered egg yolks back into the saucepan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the cream sauce cool for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Assemble the Dessert

Pour the warm cream sauce evenly over the baked phyllo pastry, ensuring it seeps into the cuts and layers.

Allow the dessert to rest for 10-15 minutes, letting the phyllo soak up the cream. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic finish. Add a drizzle of honey or sweetened condensed milk if desired, and garnish with toasted nuts for added crunch.

Conclusion

This layered phyllo pastry with cream sauce is a delightful fusion of texture and flavor.

The crispiness of the golden phyllo layers, combined with the rich, velvety cream sauce, creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet light.

It’s perfect for any occasion — from celebratory dinners to cozy family gatherings.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility.

You can customize it by adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream sauce, swapping the garnish for fresh fruits, or experimenting with flavored syrups.

And while it looks impressive, the preparation is surprisingly straightforward, making it a go-to dessert for impressing your guests with minimal effort.