Indulge in the sweet and nutty flavors of this classic baklava recipe. Layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a mixture of ground nuts and spices, all soaked in a honey syrup. This Mediterranean dessert is perfect for special occasions or to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings. Follow this easy recipe and create a delicious baklava that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 1/2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, almonds), finely ground
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix together the ground nuts, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Brush a baking dish with melted butter.
- Cut the phyllo dough to fit the size of the baking dish.
- Place a sheet of phyllo into the dish, brush with melted butter, and repeat the process with 6 more sheets.
- Spread a layer of the nut mixture on top of the phyllo.
- Repeat the layering process with phyllo and nuts until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of phyllo.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or rectangular shapes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup by combining sugar, water, honey, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
- Once the baklava is baked, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over the hot baklava, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Allow the baklava to cool completely and soak in the syrup before serving.
Interesting Facts
Baklava is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire.
It is a popular dessert in Middle Eastern, Greek, and Turkish cuisines.
Traditionally, baklava is made with layers of phyllo dough, ground nuts, and honey syrup.
The flaky layers of phyllo dough are achieved by brushing each layer with melted butter.
Baklava is often garnished with chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar.