Indulge in the sweet and nutty delight of Baklava, a traditional Mediterranean dessert enjoyed for generations. With layers of crispy phyllo dough, flavorful nuts, and a sticky honey syrup, this treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Baklava at home allows you to experience the authentic flavors and textures of this beloved dessert. The process may seem intricate, but the final result is well worth the effort. Plus, impressing your friends and family with homemade Baklava is always rewarding.
How to Make Baklava
Ingredients
- 16 oz Phyllo dough (thawed)
- ¾ lb finely chopped nuts
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (firmly packed)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (melted, plus more as needed)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 lemon slice
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice (fresh-squeezed preferred)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 whole clove
- ½ cup honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Semisweet or dark chocolate (for drizzling) (optional)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix chopped nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Layer phyllo sheets in a baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
- Sprinkle nut mixture over every few layers of phyllo.
- Finish with a final layer of phyllo on top, brushing generously with butter.
- Before baking, score the top of Baklava into diamond or square shapes.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes, until golden brown.
- While Baklava bakes, prepare the syrup by simmering water, sugar, lemon, cinnamon stick, and clove.
- Once cooked, pour the cooled syrup over Baklava. Let it cool for 4-6 hours before serving.
How to Serve Baklava
Serve Baklava at room temperature, cut into pieces along the scored lines. Drizzle with chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
How to Store Baklava
Store Baklava in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to one month.
Tips to Make Baklava
- Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions to prevent tearing.
- Use a sharp knife to cut through the layers of phyllo easily.
- Adjust the sweetness of the syrup to your preference by adding more or less honey.
Variation
For a different flavor profile, try using different types of nuts such as pistachios, walnuts, or almonds. You can also add a sprinkle of ground cloves or nutmeg to the nut mixture for a unique twist.
Baklava
Description
Learn how to make the classic Baklava, a beloved dessert with layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and honey syrup. Impress your loved ones with this sweet treat!Ingredients
Baklava Ingredients
Directions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a bowl, mix chopped nuts, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
-
Layer phyllo sheets in a baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter.
-
Sprinkle nut mixture over every few layers of phyllo.
-
Finish with a final layer of phyllo on top, brushing generously with butter.
-
Before baking, score the top of Baklava into diamond or square shapes.
-
Bake for about 45-50 minutes, until golden brown.
-
While Baklava bakes, prepare the syrup by simmering water, sugar, lemon, cinnamon stick, and clove.
-
Once cooked, pour the cooled syrup over Baklava. Let it cool for 4-6 hours before serving.
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 250kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 5g25%
- Cholesterol 20mg7%
- Sodium 100mg5%
- Total Carbohydrate 25g9%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 15g
- Protein 5g10%
- Vitamin A 2 IU
- Vitamin C 4 mg
- Calcium 6 mg
- Iron 8 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
