Baklava is a delicious dessert that features layers of crispy phyllo pastry, a rich nut filling, and a sweet honey syrup. This dessert has a long history and is enjoyed in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures.
The origins of baklava can be traced back to the kitchens of the Ottoman Empire, where it was refined into the sophisticated delicacy we know today. The combination of crisp phyllo layers, spiced nuts, and sweet syrup creates a symphony of textures and flavors that is truly irresistible.
Baklava
Ingredients
For the Baklava:
- 16 oz phyllo dough thawed by package instructions
- 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter melted (about 10 oz or 2 1/2 sticks)
- 1 lb walnuts finely chopped (about 4 cups)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice juice of 1/2 lemon
- 3/4 cup water
For Garnish:
- Finely chopped pistachios or walnuts optional
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Nut Mixture
- Pulse the walnuts in a food processor until they are coarsely ground.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped walnuts and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Baklava
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Brush a 9×13 inch baking pan with some of the melted butter.
- Place 10 sheets of phyllo dough into the baking pan one at a time, brushing each sheet with melted butter before adding the next.
- Spread about 3/4 cup of the nut mixture over the phyllo dough.
- Add 5 more sheets of phyllo, brushing each with butter, then another layer of nuts. Repeat this process until you have 5 layers of nuts and end with 10 layers of phyllo dough on top, brushing each with butter.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
Step 3: Bake the Baklava
- Bake the baklava in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crisp.
Step 4: Prepare the Syrup
- While the baklava is baking, combine the sugar, honey, lemon juice, and water in a medium saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 5: Add the Syrup
- Remove the baklava from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava. You should hear it sizzle.
- Let the baklava cool completely, uncovered, at room temperature for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for the syrup to fully absorb.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with finely chopped pistachios or walnuts if desired.
- Serve the baklava at room temperature and enjoy!
Tips and Information
- Phyllo Dough: Keep the phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent it from drying out.
- Cutting: Cutting the baklava before baking ensures that the syrup can penetrate all layers.
- Storage: Store baklava at room temperature, covered with a tea towel, for up to 2 weeks.
Making baklava at home allows you to enjoy this classic dessert with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The key to perfect baklava lies in the layering of the phyllo dough and the even distribution of the syrup, which ensures that each bite is perfectly sweet and crunchy. Whether you’re familiar with traditional Middle Eastern desserts or trying baklava for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress.