Discover how to make Baklava, a classic sweet pastry featuring crispy layers of phyllo dough, a rich nut filling, and a sweet honey syrup. Perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat any time. Follow our step-by-step recipe for a traditional and irresistible dessert!
Ingredients:
For the Baklava:
- 1 package (16 oz) phyllo dough, thawed
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, and pistachios), finely chopped
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
Prepare the Nuts:
- In a bowl, mix the chopped nuts with ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Assemble the Baklava:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush a 9x13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Layer 8 sheets of phyllo dough in the dish, brushing each sheet with melted butter before adding the next.
- Evenly spread a layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo dough.
- Continue layering, alternating with the nut mixture, until all the nuts are used up. Finish with 8 more layers of phyllo dough, each brushed with melted butter.
Cut and Bake:
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the baklava is golden brown and crisp.
Make the Syrup:
- While the baklava bakes, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, honey, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow the syrup to cool.
Add Syrup to Baklava:
- Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the cooled syrup evenly over the hot baklava.
- Let it cool completely before serving to allow the syrup to soak in and the layers to become crisp and sweet.
Enjoy your homemade Baklava as a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion!
Nutritional values
1 Package (16 oz) Phyllo Dough, Thawed
- Calories: Approximately 130 kcal per 1 oz (28g)
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 2g
Benefits:
- Low in fat compared to puff pastry, making it a lighter option.
- Provides a crispy texture and base for layering in desserts.
2 Cups Mixed Nuts (Walnuts, Almonds, and Pistachios), Finely Chopped
- Calories: Approximately 200 kcal per 1/4 cup of mixed nuts
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
Benefits:
- Rich in healthy fats that support heart health.
- Provides protein, which supports muscle health and satiety.
- High in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc.
1 Cup Unsalted Butter, Melted
- Calories: 810 kcal per cup
- Fat: 92g
- Saturated Fat: 58g
Benefits:
- Adds richness and enhances the flavor of the Baklava.
- Helps achieve the desired flaky and crispy texture.
1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- Calories: 6 kcal per teaspoon
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
Benefits:
- Contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
- May aid in regulating blood sugar levels.
1 Cup Granulated Sugar
- Calories: 774 kcal per cup
- Carbohydrates: 200g
Benefits:
- Provides the necessary sweetness to balance the richness of the Baklava.
1 Cup Water
- Calories: 0 kcal
- No significant nutrients
Benefits:
- Essential for dissolving the sugar and creating the syrup consistency.
1/2 Cup Honey
- Calories: 515 kcal per cup
- Carbohydrates: 140g
- Natural Sugars: Includes fructose and glucose
Benefits:
- Offers a complex flavor and additional nutrients compared to refined sugar.
- Contains antioxidants that can benefit health.
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- Calories: 12 kcal per teaspoon
- Carbohydrates: 1g
Benefits:
- Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the syrup.
1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
- Calories: 4 kcal per tablespoon
- Vitamin C: High content
Benefits:
- Adds a tangy note that balances the sweetness of the syrup.
- Supports immune health and enhances overall flavor.
These ingredients work together to create a rich, flavorful Baklava with a sweet, nutty filling and a well-balanced syrup.
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