Baklava is a rich and indulgent pastry made with layers of crispy phyllo dough, filled with a mixture of chopped nuts, and sweetened with a fragrant honey syrup. This Middle Eastern and Mediterranean delicacy is known for its flaky texture and the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or indulge in a luxurious dessert, this Baklava recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients
To make traditional Baklava, you will need:
- For the Baklava:
- Phyllo Dough: 1 package (16 ounces), thawed if frozen
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, melted
- Walnuts or Pistachios: 2 cups, finely chopped
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- For the Syrup:
- Honey: 1 cup
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Water: 1 cup
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Cinnamon Stick: 1
- Cloves: 3-4
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Nut Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Assemble the Baklava:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with some of the melted butter.
- Unroll the phyllo dough and cut to fit the baking dish if necessary. Cover with a damp cloth to keep from drying out.
- Place one sheet of phyllo in the baking dish and brush with melted butter. Repeat this process with about 10 sheets of phyllo.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo.
- Continue layering phyllo sheets and nuts, brushing each sheet with butter, until all the nut mixture is used. Finish with about 10 layers of phyllo, brushing each with butter.
- Cut and Bake:
- Using a sharp knife, cut the assembled baklava into diamond or square shapes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.
- Prepare the Syrup:
- While the baklava is baking, combine honey, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon stick, and cloves in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Finish the Baklava:
- Remove the baked baklava from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the top. Let it soak in and cool completely before serving.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store Baklava at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, though it may lose some of its crispiness.
Add-On Suggestions
- Spice Variations: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or cloves to the nut mixture for extra flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled baklava for a decadent twist.
- Nut Mixtures: Use a mix of nuts like almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts for varied textures and flavors.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Baklava ahead of time? A: Yes, Baklava can be made ahead of time and stored. It often tastes better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
Q: How do I prevent the phyllo dough from drying out? A: Keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp cloth while working to prevent it from drying out and becoming brittle.
Q: Can I freeze Baklava? A: Yes, Baklava freezes well. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Health Considerations
Baklava is a rich dessert high in sugar and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation. However, nuts provide beneficial nutrients like healthy fats and protein, and honey offers antioxidant properties.
Baklava is a truly decadent dessert that combines layers of flaky pastry with a sweet, nutty filling and aromatic syrup. Enjoy making and sharing this classic treat with friends and family!
