Savory California Walnut Cheesecake

DESCRIPTION

This gorgeous appetizer with a walnut crust and rich baked cheese filling is an elegant addition to any special occasion. 

Total Time
1 Hr, 40 Mins
Serves
8
Course
Appetizers

Total Time

Prep Time
40 Mins
Cook Time
1 Hr
Total Time
1 Hr, 40 Mins

Nutrition

Calories
336 cal
Total Fat
28 g
Polyunsaturated Fat
8 g
Cholesterol
86 mg
Sodium
251 mg
Carbohydrates
12 g
Dietary Fiber
2 g
Protein
10 g

Ingredients

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups California walnuts, chopped, divided
  • 1 1/2 cups crushed wheat crackers
  • 1/3 cup butter, melted

    For the Filling:

    • 2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
    • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
    • 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
    • 3 eggs
    • 5 tablespoons flour, divided
    • 1/2 cup California walnut halves

      For the Topping:

      • 1 (7-ounce) jar roasted red peppers, well drained
      • 2 medium tomatoes, coarsely chopped
      • 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
      • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
      • 2 cloves garlic, minced
      • Black or green olives (garnish)

        Preparation

        1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Stir together 1 cup walnuts, crackers and butter in a medium bowl. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
        2. Beat cream cheese in a large bowl with a mixer until smooth. Beat in cheeses, 4 tablespoons flour and eggs. Stir in remaining walnuts and pour into prepared pan.
        3. Bake for 50 minutes. Stir together sour cream and remaining tablespoon flour and spread evenly over cheesecake. Arrange walnuts on top in a circular pattern and bake for 10 minutes more. Place on a wire rack and let cool.
        4. While cheesecake is cooking, place all topping ingredients in a blender or food processor. Pulse on and off until all ingredients are chopped. Spoon over chilled or room temperature cheesecake slices and garnish with olives.