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Homemade Baklava photo

Baklava

This Baklava is a delightful pastry with layers of flaky dough, rich walnuts, and sweet syrup that will impress everyone!
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Filling:
  • 4 cups walnuts coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup sugar divided
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 1 cinnamon stick optional
  • 2 strips orange rind optional
  • 1 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 to 2 (16-oz) packages store-bought phyllo dough thawed

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush
  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Baklava Cooking Steps
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Nut Filling - In a mixing bowl, combine the coarsely chopped walnuts, 1 cup of sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  2. Step 2: Melt the Butter - In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Make sure it doesn’t brown; we want it to remain golden and smooth.
  3. Step 3: Layer the Phyllo Dough - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out. Brush the bottom of your baking dish with melted butter. Layer 8 sheets of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter before adding the next.
  4. Step 4: Add the Nut Filling - Spread a generous layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo layers. Then, add another 4 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each with butter, followed by another layer of nuts. Repeat this process until you’ve used all the nut filling, finishing with 8 more buttered phyllo sheets on top.
  5. Step 5: Cut the Baklava - Using a sharp knife, cut the Baklava into diamond or square shapes. This allows the syrup to soak in, making every bite delicious.
  6. Step 6: Bake the Baklava - Place the Baklava in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Step 7: Prepare the Syrup - While the Baklava is baking, combine 1 cup of sugar, 1 cup of water, honey, lemon juice, salt, cinnamon stick, and orange rind in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes until it slightly thickens.
  8. Step 8: Soak the Baklava - Once the Baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the hot syrup over the entire dish. Let it soak for a few hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

  • Ensure your phyllo dough is fresh and properly thawed for best results.
  • Don't skip the butter; it adds moisture and flavor to each layer.
  • Cut the Baklava before baking to allow the syrup to penetrate.
  • Store Baklava in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  • For longer storage, freeze wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months.