Mānuka Honey and Lavender Infused Cheesecake

Indulge in the creamy, luxurious taste of this Mānuka honey and lavender-infused cheesecake. This dessert combines the unique flavours of Mānuka honey with a subtle hint of lavender, making it a perfect treat for special occasions.

Ingredients:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• 1/4 cup melted butter

• 2 tablespoons Manuka honey

Filling:

• 24 oz (680 g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup Manuka honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon culinary lavender, finely ground

• 3 large eggs

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Topping:

• 1/4 cup Manuka honey

• 1 tablespoon culinary lavender

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).

   • In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and Manuka honey. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.

   • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.

   • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and let it cool.

2. Make the Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

   • Add the granulated sugar and Manuka honey, beating until well combined.

   • Mix in the vanilla extract and finely ground lavender.

   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

   • Finally, mix in the sour cream and heavy cream until the filling is smooth and well-blended.

3. Bake the Cheesecake:

   • Pour the filling over the cooled crust in the springform pan.

   • Place the springform pan in a larger baking pan and fill the larger pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the springform pan.

   • Bake the cheesecake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

   • Turn off the oven, crack the oven door slightly, and let the cheesecake cool in the oven for 1 hour.

   • Remove the cheesecake from the oven and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.

4. Prepare the Topping:

   • In a small saucepan, gently heat the Manuka honey and culinary lavender over low heat until warm and fragrant. Do not boil.

   • Let the mixture cool slightly, then strain to remove the lavender pieces.

5. Serve:

   • Just before serving, drizzle the lavender-infused Manuka honey over the chilled cheesecake.

   • Garnish with a few sprigs of fresh lavender if desired.