No-Bake Cheesecake in Kataifi Nests

March 14, 2018
no-bake cheesecake in kataifi nests | All that's Jas

Robin's "eggs" on a creamy no-bake cheesecake in a crispy kataifi fillo nest is fun and delightful seasonal treat.

No-Bake Cheesecake in Kataifi Nests

This fun and delightful seasonal treat made with kataifi nests, filled with no-bake cheesecake, and topped with robin’s “eggs” makes an adorable addition to your Easter table.

 

The recipe is inspired by our friends at The Fillo Factory.  When they suggested I try making something with kataifi (shredded fillo dough), I gladly agreed as I love challenges.

 

But honestly, since I’ve never worked with kataifi before, I was not only intimidated, I dreaded and procrastinated working on this recipe for as long as I could. OK, it’s not all due to kataifi. I also thrive on looming deadlines.

 

And so, I’ve finally set out to make Easter nests. Armed with kataifi provided by The Fillo Factory (all opinions are my own), I laid out my ingredients. I “danced” around it for a while, finding other small chores I had wanted to do in case this project fails and it takes me a whole day to make. I wanted nothing else hanging over my head.

 

kataifi fillo dough

 

But, guys! I’m still astonished how easy it is working with kataifi! BAM – the Easter nests were done.  They can be filled with savory filling and topped with cherry tomatoes for eggs, but you know me. Cheesecake is on my mind 24/7. My most popular one, tiramisu cheesecake, is quite labor intensive. So, I simplified the recipe with a no-bake version but apparently, I’m not the only one that likes challenges. The original one still takes the lead. OK, then.

 

However, I do prefer no-bake version. If you like cheesecakes too, follow along. Another interesting recipe is coming up next week. Since kataifi nests were done so quickly, I had more fun with the leftover dough threads and made this bunny head. Isn’t it cute?

 

no-bake cheesecake in kataifi nests and "creepy" bunny head

 

My daughter thinks its mouth looks creepy. After I politely informed her that the bunny is smiling and thus can’t be creepy, she sent me this GIF. OK, she wins. Maybe my bunny’s smile is a little creepy. LOL.

via GIPHY

 

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No-Bake Cheesecake in Kataifi Nests Recipe

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Easter treat - no bake cheesecake kataifi nests

 

INGREDIENTS:
Makes 24

  • ½ package (8oz.) kataifi (shredded fillo dough), thawed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 package (8oz.) cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar or 2 tablespoons honey
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
  • Robin’s eggs candy, Jelly Belly’s or M&M’s

 

~ Free Tip ~

Add 2 teaspoons granulated sugar and a pinch of cinnamon to kataifi in step 4, if desired.

 

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Lightly grease two standard 12-cup muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray.
  3. Prepare the nests by untangling kataifi in a large bowl (it doesn’t have to be perfect, just no clumps). Drizzle the melted butter over the kataifi and toss to coat completely.
  4. Pinch handfuls of the kataifi and distribute evenly over two muffin tins. Gently press them down into muffin wells to form a nest.
  5. Bake the nests for 8-10 minutes (keep your eye on them so they don’t get too dark). Cool in muffin tin on a wire rack.
  6. Meanwhile, with an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Add sugar or honey, heavy cream, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix well.
  7. In a small bowl, pour hot water over gelatin. Stir until gelatin is completely dissolved. Microwave for 10-15 seconds, if necessary. Do not boil.
  8. Gradually beat in gelatin mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
  9. Fill nests with the cheesecake filling (about 1 tablespoon per nest).
  10. Refrigerate until set, for about an hour and then carefully remove nests to platter with an offset spatula or spoon.
  11. Garnish with robin’s eggs candy before serving.

making kataifi nests

fun Easter treat made with kataifi

A bite out of cheesecake kataifi nests

5 from 9 votes
kataifi nests with cheesecake filling recipe
Print
No-Bake Cheesecake in Kataifi Nests Recipe
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
10 mins
Chill Time
1 hr
Total Time
30 mins
 

No-bake cheesecake in kataifi nests with robin's "eggs" is a fun and delightful Easter treat.

Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Greek
Servings: 24
Author: Jas
Ingredients
  • ½ package 8oz. kataifi (shredded fillo dough), thawed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 1 package 8oz. cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar or 2 tablespoons honey
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons hot water
  • 1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
  • Robin's eggs candy Jelly Belly's or M&M's
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Lightly grease two standard 12-cup muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray.
  3. Prepare the nests by untangling kataifi in a large bowl (it doesn't have to be perfect, just no clumps). Drizzle the melted butter over the kataifi and toss to coat completely.
  4. Pinch handfuls of the kataifi and distribute evenly over two muffin tins. Gently press them down into muffin wells to form a nest.
  5. Bake the nests for 8-10 minutes (keep your eye on them so they don't get too dark). Cool in muffin tin on a wire rack.
  6. Meanwhile, with an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Add sugar or honey, heavy cream, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix well.
  7. In a small bowl, pour hot water over gelatin. Stir until gelatin is completely dissolved. Microwave for 10-15 seconds, if necessary. Do not boil.
  8. Gradually beat in gelatin mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
  9. Fill nests with the cheesecake filling (about 1 tablespoon per nest).
  10. 10. Refrigerate until set, for about an hour and then carefully remove nests to platter with an offset spatula or spoon.
  11. 11. Garnish with robin's eggs candy before serving.
Recipe Notes

~ Free Tip ~

Add 2 teaspoons granulated sugar and a pinch of cinnamon to kataifi in step 4, if desired.

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Fun and adorable, these no-bake cheesecakes in kataifi nests topped with robin's "eggs" make a delightful Easter and spring treat. | allthatsjas.com | #Easter #nobakecheesecake #ad #sponsored #cheesecake #kataifi #kadaifi #kanafeh #dough #treat #dessert #spring #nests #fun #delicious #cute #easy

 

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Jas

publisher and creative director at All that's Jas
Jas is a cheesecake addict and the author of Balkan Comfort Food cookbook available on Amazon. You can download a free excerpt of the book when you subscribe to All that's Jas newsletter updates or purchase the full version below. To learn more about Jas visit her About page.
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45 Comment

  1. Reply
    Kerryanne
    March 29, 2018 at 10:38 pm

    Oh my, I’ve never used kataifi. In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever seen it here in Australia, but I’m on a mission to find it now. These nests look so lovely.
    Thank you for sharing this recipe at Create, Bake, Grow & Gather this week at Shabby Art Boutique. I’m delighted to be featuring it at tonight’s party and pinning too.
    Happy Easter!

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 30, 2018 at 11:20 pm

      Appreciate it very much, Kerryanne! I know of Australian fillo brand, so maybe you can order from them as I’m not sure if our ship outside the US. Good luck and happy Easter!

  2. Reply
    Tiffiney | Welcome Home Ministry
    March 29, 2018 at 6:12 pm

    This looks festive and delish! Thanks for sharing over at Heart and Home. I’ll be trying it for Easter. Blessings!
    Tiffiney | Welcome Home Ministry recently posted…Take Courage Girlfriend! You Can Do ThisMy Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 30, 2018 at 11:16 pm

      Thank you, Tiffiney! It’s a must-have dessert for my grandkids 🙂 Happy Easter!

  3. Reply
    Mary
    March 29, 2018 at 1:29 am

    Jas would you believe I have never used Kataifi. Shame on me! But after looking at this recipe I may be tempted to give it a try. It actually looks easy!

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 29, 2018 at 9:35 am

      Lol, Mary! Your Greek citizenship might be revoked, ha! It really is easy. I’m mad I waited this long to try it. 🙂

  4. Reply
    Petra
    March 25, 2018 at 7:57 pm

    I love the idea of using kataifi dough for a cheesecake, it looks delicious 🙂 Thank you for sharing at Fiesta Friday 🙂
    Petra recently posted…Hibiscus and Romano pepper HarissaMy Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 26, 2018 at 9:40 pm

      Thank you, Petra!

  5. Reply
    Kate - gluten free alchemist
    March 25, 2018 at 12:16 pm

    I love this idea. The nests are so ‘nest-like’! Mind you, I’m with your daughter….. the bunny mouth is pretty creepy!!!! x
    Kate – gluten free alchemist recently posted…Vegan Mint-Chocolate Ice Cream Bites (free from gluten, dairy, nuts)My Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 26, 2018 at 9:32 pm

      LOL, you’re right. I’ll practice some more so I don’t scare my grandkids, ha!

  6. Reply
    Jen
    March 25, 2018 at 10:57 am

    Yum! Pinned this one for sure 🙂 I have never heard of katafi before!! #happynowlinkup
    Jen recently posted…One Million Sample Giveaway! OREO Mint Chocolate Candy BarsMy Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 26, 2018 at 9:30 pm

      We learn something every day, don’t we? 🙂 Thanks for stopping in. X

  7. Reply
    Chas
    March 24, 2018 at 7:43 pm

    So cute and perfect for spring! Great job and thanks for sharing on To Grandma’s House We Go!

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 25, 2018 at 9:10 am

      Thanks, Chas! Glad you like them.

  8. Reply
    Zeba Durrani
    March 24, 2018 at 5:14 pm

    What a great way to use Kataifi…these looks absolutely amazing. Thanks for sharing on Fiesta Friday!

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 25, 2018 at 9:09 am

      Thanks so much for your kind comment!

  9. Reply
    handmade by amalia
    March 24, 2018 at 1:04 pm

    What a beautiful treat. And it looks delicious.
    Amalia
    xo
    handmade by amalia recently posted…Brown and Broken No MoreMy Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 25, 2018 at 9:09 am

      Thank you, Amalia! 🙂

  10. Reply
    Honest Mum
    March 24, 2018 at 10:50 am

    How wonderful are these. Being originally Greek, I know and love Kataifi. Thanks for linking up x
    Honest Mum recently posted…Wonderful Women Interview with Founder of Mummy Buddy, Janey CareyMy Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 25, 2018 at 9:08 am

      Thank you, my dear! Means a lot to get a confirmation from a Greek. XO

  11. Reply
    Miz Helen
    March 24, 2018 at 10:23 am

    These little nests are just adorable, a very special treat! Hope you are having a great weekend and thanks so much for sharing your great post with us at Full Plate Thursday!
    Miz Helen

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 25, 2018 at 9:07 am

      Thank you, Miz Helen!

    2. Reply
      Jas
      March 25, 2018 at 9:13 am

      Happy you like them, Miz Helen! Thanks for stopping in.

  12. Reply
    Michelle Leslie
    March 24, 2018 at 1:37 am

    LOL Jas, that poor bunny. I thought he was cute and then saw the gif your daughter sent and it was, uummmm okay. Some things just can’t be unseen 😀 On the other hand the kataifi cheesecake nests are adorable. What a beautiful way to serve up Easter yumminess
    Michelle Leslie recently posted…99th Sweet Inspiration Link Party – Come Join Us!!!My Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 25, 2018 at 9:07 am

      LOL, he was delicious nevertheless. But I need to perfect my bunny making skills, ha!

  13. Reply
    Jamie
    March 23, 2018 at 5:24 pm

    These look amazing!! Pinning to try them for my family soon. 🙂
    Jamie recently posted…Sweet Rainbow Treats for St. Patrick’s Day or Easter #TigerStrypesBlogMy Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 23, 2018 at 11:18 pm

      Thank you, Jamie!

  14. Reply
    Lathiya
    March 23, 2018 at 3:34 pm

    Those nests looks so cute..awesome idea

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 23, 2018 at 10:11 pm

      Thanks a lot!

  15. Reply
    Jann Olson
    March 22, 2018 at 8:43 pm

    So fun! I had not heard of Kataifi, but I love filo dough! Thanks for sharing with SYC.
    hugs,
    Jann

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 23, 2018 at 9:47 pm

      You’d love it, Jann! 😀

  16. Reply
    Linda S
    March 22, 2018 at 11:30 am

    These perfect little nests look beautiful AND delicious! Can’t wait to try this with my girls.
    Linda S recently posted…Encouraging Hearts & Home Blog Hop 3.22.18My Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 22, 2018 at 2:49 pm

      They are super fun to make and fun for kids to help too 🙂 Thank you, Linda!

  17. Reply
    Ann
    March 21, 2018 at 1:06 pm

    Just darling! Perfect for an Easter celebration!

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 21, 2018 at 10:16 pm

      Thanks so much, Ann!

  18. Reply
    Shannon
    March 21, 2018 at 4:36 am

    Hi from over at Oh Heartsie Girl! This is such a cute idea!!! I’m going to share it with my girls! I know my grandsons will love it! Have a great week!
    Shannon recently posted…Small Space Gardening IdeasMy Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 21, 2018 at 10:13 pm

      Much appreciated, Shannon! Kids do adore these. Thanks for stopping in! 😀

  19. Reply
    Valaney
    March 20, 2018 at 8:50 pm

    These look SO yummy! I’ll definitely have to try them for Easter! I found you through the Lou Lou Girls Fabulous Party. It would mean a lot if you could check out my blog!

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 21, 2018 at 10:11 pm

      Thanks, Valeney!

  20. Reply
    Jhuls @ The Not So Creative Cook
    March 20, 2018 at 1:46 am

    These look so adorable, Jas!! I love that they are no-bake, too! Delicious!! 😀 Thanks for sharing!

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 21, 2018 at 9:59 pm

      Thanks, Jhuls! Glad you like them 😀

  21. Reply
    Rhiana L Jones
    March 19, 2018 at 5:39 pm

    Ack! Why the scarey clown!
    Rhiana L Jones recently posted…Involuntarily Unemployed: Curse or Blessing?My Profile

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 19, 2018 at 10:58 pm

      LOL, because my daughter wanted to make a point. It’s all explained in the post. 😉

  22. Reply
    Mother of 3
    March 19, 2018 at 4:56 pm

    I have never heard of Kataifi but you can bet I’ll be looking around the grocery store for them now. Those look amazing and I LOVE cheesecake. Pinned.

    1. Reply
      Jas
      March 19, 2018 at 10:50 pm

      Thanks, Joanne! Much appreciated.

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