Baklava is a classic dessert that brings together flaky pastry, rich nuts, and sweet syrup into a delightful treat. This recipe simplifies the process while maximizing flavor using just a few ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 package of phyllo dough (16 oz), thawed
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups mixed nuts (walnuts, pistachios, or almonds), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped nuts and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Unroll the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out. Brush a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted butter.
Layer 8 sheets of phyllo dough in the baking dish, brushing each layer with melted butter before adding the next. This will create a flaky base for your baklava.
Spread a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo. Repeat the process by adding 4 more sheets of phyllo, brushing with butter each time, followed by another layer of the nut mixture. Continue this process until the nut mixture is used up, finishing with 8 more layers of phyllo on top, brushing each with butter.
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, cutting through all the layers.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, water, honey, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened.
Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot pastry. Allow it to cool completely, letting the syrup soak in.
Once cooled, cut along the scored lines if needed. Serve and enjoy the delicious layers of flavor in every bite!