Baklava is a beloved dessert across Turkey, the Middle East, and the Balkans. It features thin, flaky layers of phyllo pastry filled with ground nuts, drenched in a fragrant syrup. Crispy, sticky, and utterly luxurious, baklava is often served on holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients
For a 9×13-inch baking dish:
For the Pastry:
- 1 package (16 oz / 450g) phyllo dough, thawed
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 2 cups (250g) walnuts or pistachios, finely chopped
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- ½ cup (170g) honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cinnamon stick or a few whole cloves (optional)
- 1–2 tsp rose water or orange blossom water (optional)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Make the Nut Filling
- Combine chopped nuts, sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Baklava
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the bottom and sides of a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter.
- Lay down a sheet of phyllo, brush with butter, and repeat with about 8 sheets.
- Sprinkle a layer of the nut mixture evenly over the top.
- Add 4–5 more layers of buttered phyllo, then another layer of nuts.
- Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with at least 6–8 phyllo sheets on top.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the baklava into diamonds or squares.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake in preheated oven for 45–50 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Step 4: Prepare the Syrup
- While the baklava bakes, combine sugar, water, honey, lemon juice, and spices in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in rose water or orange blossom water, if using.
- Let the syrup cool slightly.
Step 5: Add the Syrup
- As soon as the baklava comes out of the oven, pour the warm syrup evenly over it.
- Let it soak for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, uncovered.
Tips
- Work quickly with phyllo dough and keep unused sheets covered with a damp towel.
- Use a sharp knife to cut clean pieces before baking.
- Mix walnuts, pistachios, or almonds for a richer flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve at room temperature with coffee or Turkish tea.
- Garnish with chopped pistachios or a drizzle of chocolate for a modern twist.
- Stores well in an airtight container for up to 1 week.