Ingredients:
For the Gulab Jamun Layer:
- 12-14 Gulab Jamun (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup rose syrup (store-bought or homemade)
For the Cheesecake Layer:
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon rosewater essence
- 1/2 cup crushed pistachios (plus extra for garnish)
For the Rose Syrup Drizzle:
- 1/4 cup rose syrup
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
- Prepare the Gulab Jamun Layer:
- Slice the Gulab Jamun in half horizontally.
- Arrange the Gulab Jamun halves in the bottom of a greased 9-inch springform pan.
- Drizzle the rose syrup evenly over the Gulab Jamun layer.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cheesecake layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Layer:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the sour cream and rosewater essence until the mixture is well combined.
- Gently fold in the crushed pistachios.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the cheesecake batter over the Gulab Jamun layer in the pan.
- Tap the pan on the countertop to remove any air bubbles.
- Place the pan in a larger baking dish filled with hot water to create a water bath (this helps prevent cracks in the cheesecake).
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until the cheesecake is set around the edges but slightly jiggly in the center.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for about an hour.
- Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Rose Syrup Drizzle:
- In a small saucepan, heat the rose syrup and water over low heat until it becomes slightly thinner. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Serve:
- Once the cheesecake has cooled, refrigerate it for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
- Before serving, drizzle the cooled rose syrup over the cheesecake.
- Garnish with additional crushed pistachios.
This Rose Pistachio Gulab Jamun Cheesecake is a decadent and exotic dessert that combines the traditional Indian flavors of Gulab Jamun with the creamy richness of cheesecake, making it a delightful fusion treat. Enjoy!