Savory Lavender Honey Cheesecake Bites with Feta Crust
Indulge in these luxurious Savory Lavender Honey Cheesecake Bites with a flaky feta crust, combining creamy textures with aromatic lavender for a truly unique appetizer.
Servings: 12 pieces
Calories: 150kcal
Ingredients
For the phyllo crust
- 8 sheets sheets of phyllo dough Delicate and flaky, these sheets layer beautifully to create a crisp crust.
- 60 g melted butter Rich and golden, it adds depth and flavor to the phyllo.
- 100 g crumbled feta cheese Salty and tangy, feta brings an irresistible creaminess.
For the cheesecake filling
- 200 g cream cheese, softened Smooth and velvety, it provides the perfect base.
- 100 g whipped ricotta Light and airy, it adds a luxurious texture.
- 1 large egg This binds the filling together beautifully.
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt Tart and creamy, it enhances the richness.
- 1 zest lemon Bright and uplifting, it adds refreshing aroma.
- 1 tsp culinary dried lavender buds Earthy and floral, it brings an unexpected twist.
- Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper Essential to balance flavors.
- 2 tbsp lavender-infused honey Sweet with a floral note; it drizzles on top.
- 1 tsp warm water (to thin, optional) This will help achieve the ideal honey consistency.
For garnish
- Fresh thyme leaves or microgreens These garnishes add a refreshing herbal note.
- Cracked pink pepper or crushed pistachio (optional) For an extra crunch and a hint of spice.
Instructions
Preheat the oven
- Begin this delicious journey by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Prepare the phyllo crusts
- Melt your butter and get ready to brush. Take each sheet of phyllo dough, gently layering them while brushing melted butter between each layer.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the buttery layers. Fit them snugly into a mini muffin tin to form small cups.
- Bake the crusts for 10–12 minutes until golden and crisp.
Make the filling
- In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, whipped ricotta, and a large egg until smooth.
- Stir in Greek yogurt, fresh lemon zest, dried lavender buds, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
Spoon into the cups
- Once the phyllo cups are golden and cooled, spoon the cream filling into each cup, leveling them off.
Bake the filled cups
- Return your mini muffin tin to the oven and bake the filled cups for another 12–15 minutes, or until they are just set and slightly puffed.
Cool and drizzle
- Allow your cheesecake bites to cool completely. Meanwhile, warm the lavender-infused honey slightly, thinning it with warm water if necessary.
- Drizzle the honey over the cooled bites.
Garnish
- Add fresh thyme leaves or microgreens on top, and if you desire, a sprinkle of cracked pink pepper or crushed pistachio.
Notes
For a healthier spin, consider using whole wheat phyllo dough or a gluten-free alternative. You can also swap Greek yogurt with a dairy-free option like coconut yogurt.