Discover how to make the perfect Baklava with our easy recipe! This classic sweet pastry features layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with a mixture of nuts and drizzled with a rich syrup. Perfect for holidays or any occasion, our Baklava recipe will impress your family and friends with its delicious, sweet, and nutty flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, and almonds), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Nut Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the finely chopped nuts and ground cinnamon.
Assemble the Baklava:
- Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Place one sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush with melted butter.
- Repeat this process, layering and buttering, until you have 8 sheets layered.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo.
- Continue layering with 4 more sheets of phyllo, brushing each with butter, followed by another layer of nuts.
- Repeat until you have used all the nut mixture and top with the remaining phyllo sheets, buttering each layer.
Cut the Baklava:
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes before baking.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the phyllo is golden brown and crisp.
Prepare the Syrup:
- While the baklava is baking, combine sugar, water, and honey in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow to cool.
Pour the Syrup:
- Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
Cool and Serve:
- Let the baklava cool completely before serving to allow the syrup to soak in and flavors to meld.
Enjoy your homemade baklava with a cup of tea or coffee!
Nutritional Values:
Phyllo Dough:
- Calories: 60
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 1g
Benefits:
- Low in Fat: Compared to traditional pastry doughs, phyllo dough is lower in fat due to its thin layers.
Unsalted Butter:
- Calories: 102
- Fat: 11.5g
- Saturated Fat: 7.2g
- Cholesterol: 31mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Benefits:
- Rich in Vitamins: Butter contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
- Energy Source: Provides a good source of energy due to its fat content.
Mixed Nuts (Walnuts, Pistachios, and Almonds):
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 5g
Benefits:
- Healthy Fats: Nuts are high in unsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Rich in Fiber: Nuts contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins (such as Vitamin E) and minerals (like magnesium and potassium).
Ground Cinnamon:
- Calories: 6
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
Benefits:
- Anti-Inflammatory: Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Antioxidants: It contains powerful antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress.
- Blood Sugar Control: May help in regulating blood sugar levels.
Granulated Sugar:
- Calories: 49
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 0g
Benefits:
- Quick Energy: Provides a rapid source of energy.
Honey:
- Calories: 64
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 0g
Benefits:
- Natural Sweetener: Contains natural sugars and can be a healthier alternative to refined sugar.
- Antioxidants: Rich in antioxidants and can help in soothing sore throats.
Vanilla Extract:
- Calories: 12
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0g
Benefits:
- Flavor Enhancement: Adds a pleasant aroma and taste to the recipe.
- Antioxidants: Contains small amounts of antioxidants.
Enjoying Baklava in moderation allows you to savor a rich and flavorful dessert while benefiting from the nutrients of its key ingredients.
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