Candied Lemon with Whipped Feta & Pistachio-Chili Crumble
A delightful dessert combining sweet candied lemons, creamy whipped feta, and a crunchy pistachio-chili crumble for a vibrant and flavorful experience.
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 320kcal
Ingredients
Crust
- 100 g savory crackers Provides a crunchy, salty base.
- 50 g roasted pistachios (unsalted) Brings a rich, buttery essence.
- 60 g unsalted butter, melted Acts as a binder for the crust.
Whipped Filling
- 200 g feta cheese Creamy and slightly tangy.
- 150 g cream cheese Adds plush creaminess.
- 2 tbsp sour cream Adds a hint of tang.
- 1 tsp rosewater (optional) Floral notes complement the citrus.
- Fresh cracked pepper to taste Fresh cracked pepper Adds depth to the filling.
Candied Lemons
- 2 small lemons, very thinly sliced Key ingredients for candying.
- 200 g granulated sugar For creating the sweet syrup.
- 250 ml water Dissolves sugar for syrup.
Topping
- 40 g chopped toasted pistachios Adds texture and visual appeal.
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes Adds a hint of spice.
- 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt Balances the sweetness.
- Drizzle of honey honey For garnish and extra sweetness.
Instructions
Candy the Lemons
- Combine the sugar and water in a medium saucepan; heat gently until sugar dissolves into syrup. Lay lemon slices in single layer and simmer for approximately 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until translucent. Let cool on parchment paper.
Whip the Filling
- In a food processor, blend feta cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, rosewater, and cracked pepper until ultra-smooth and creamy. Chill filling in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
Make the Crust
- Pulse savory crackers and roasted pistachios in food processor until fine crumbs. Combine with melted butter and press firmly into bottom of a lined springform pan. Chill to set.
Assemble the Cheesecake
- Spread whipped feta over the chilled crust, then arrange the candied lemon slices on top.
Add the Crumble
- Mix chopped toasted pistachios, chili flakes, and flaky sea salt in a bowl, then sprinkle generously over the cheesecake.
Finish
- Drizzle honey over the cheesecake and scatter edible rose petals if desired. Chill for at least one hour before serving.
Notes
Slice lemons thinly for even candying. Adjust spice to taste. Chill components to let flavors meld. Toast pistachios for added crunch.