Savory California Walnut Cheesecake

By Spice Chronicles
Total Time
1 Hr, 40 Mins
Serves
8
Course
Appetizers

DESCRIPTION

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

Prep Time
40 Mins
Cook Time
1 Hr
Total Time
1 Hr, 40 Mins
Calories
336
Total Fat
28
Polyunsaturated Fat
8
Cholesterol
86
Sodium
251
Carbohydrates
12
Dietary Fiber
2
Protein
10

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.