Baklava: Nutty Nirvana
Baklava is a honey-sweet, nut-filled pastry with a rich history rooted in the Ottoman Empire, now popular across the Middle East and Mediterranean. Its ingredients, while simple, combine to create a complex and indulgent flavor profile. This revered confection has been savored for centuries, evolving from royal treat to cultural staple.
This baklava recipe captures the essence of a centuries-old tradition, yielding a dessert that’s both opulent and delectably satisfying. The flaky phyllo, rich nuts, and aromatic honey create a textured delight that’s a testament to the enduring appeal of this Middle Eastern classic. Whether you’re a fan of a spiced or floral note, or a crunchier versus syrup-soaked pastry, this recipe can be tailored to your personal taste, ensuring each bite is a journey through culinary history.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cooking Time
50 minutes
Servings
5 Servings (2 Pieces)
Ingredients
- Phyllo Dough: 16 sheets
- Nuts: 2 cups (chopped walnuts, pistachios, or almonds)
- Honey: 1 cup
- Butter: 1 cup (melted, clarified)
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1/4 cup
- Water: 1/2 cup (for the syrup)
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (for the syrup)
- Rose or Orange Blossom Water (optional): 1 teaspoon (for the syrup)
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan.
- Lay one sheet of phyllo dough in the pan and brush with melted butter. Repeat with 7 more sheets, buttering each layer.
- Combine the nuts, cinnamon, and sugar, and spread half over the top phyllo layer.
- Layer 4 more buttered phyllo sheets over the nuts.
- Add the remaining nut mixture.
- Top with the remaining 8 buttered phyllo sheets, buttering the top layer.
- Cut into diamonds or squares.
- Bake for about 50 minutes until baklava is golden and crisp.
- While baking, heat honey, water, and lemon juice over medium heat and simmer for about 20 minutes. Add rose or orange blossom water if using.
- Remove baklava from the oven and immediately pour the syrup over it.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Nutritional Information (Approx)
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Total Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Total Carbohydrate: 36 g
- Sugars: 24 g
- Protein: 4 g