MAPLE HONEY CHEESECAKE

Maple Honey Cheesecake image

Maple syrup and hazelnuts add a festive flavor to this rich and creamy cheesecake that's sure to win raves at your holiday table, says Paula Marchesi of Lenhartsville, Pennsylvania.

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 1h10m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

Ingredients

2/3 cup reduced-fat cinnamon graham cracker crumbs (about 4 whole crackers)
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon butter, melted
3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese
1 package (8 ounces) fat-free cream cheese
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 egg whites
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons chopped hazelnuts, toasted, divided
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Steps:

In a small bowl, combine the cracker crumbs, sugar and butter. Press onto bottom of a 9-in. springform pan coated with cooking spray. Bake at 325°; for 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack. , In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add the cornstarch, honey, syrup and salt, beating just until combined. Add egg whites; beat on low speed just until blended (batter will be very thick). , Spoon half of the batter over crust; smooth top. Toss 1/4 cup hazelnuts with cinnamon; sprinkle over batter. Spoon remaining batter over nuts; smooth top. Place pan on a baking sheet., Bake at 325° for 50-55 minutes or until the center is almost set. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Carefully run a knife around edge of pan to loosen; cool 1 hour longer. Refrigerate overnight. Sprinkle with remaining hazelnuts. Refrigerate leftovers.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 295 calories, Fat 14g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 36mg cholesterol, Sodium 372mg sodium, Carbohydrate 33g carbohydrate, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 10g protein.