There’s something magical about the aroma of baklava wafting through the kitchen, a sweet reminder of family gatherings and the laughter that fills the air. Traditionally, this Middle Eastern delicacy is a labor of love, layered with rich nuts and sweet syrup. As a child, I remember the excitement of helping my grandmother prepare baklava for holidays, each layer a testament to our family’s love and tradition. Today, I’m putting a modern twist on this beloved classic—introducing Maple Pistachio Baklava Bites. These delightful treats are easier to prepare, and the addition of maple syrup elevates the flavor to a whole new level.
### Ingredients
– 1 package (1 lb) phyllo dough, thawed
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup pistachios, finely chopped
– 1 cup walnuts, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
### Instructions
Prepare your workspace by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lay out the phyllo dough and cover it with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.
In a bowl, combine the finely chopped pistachios, walnuts, and ground cinnamon. This fragrant mix will be the heart of your baklava.
Take a large baking dish, preferably around 9×13 inches, and brush the bottom with some of the melted butter. Start layering the phyllo dough, brushing each layer with melted butter. Place about 8 sheets on the bottom, ensuring a generous application of butter between each layer.
Once you’ve laid the first 8 sheets, sprinkle a thin layer of the nut mixture over the phyllo, spreading it evenly. Continue this process, alternating layers of phyllo and the nut mixture, until you’ve used up all of the nuts (you should have about 3-4 layers of nuts).
Top off your baklava with another 8 layers of phyllo dough, brushing each with melted butter. Once you reach the top layer, take a sharp knife and cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes, making sure to cut all the way through to the bottom.
Bake the baklava in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until it is golden brown and crisp.
While the baklava is baking, prepare the syrup. In a saucepan, combine the maple syrup, water, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Once the baklava is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the warm syrup over the hot baklava. Allow it to soak in for several hours or overnight for the best flavor.
When ready to serve, gather your loved ones, and enjoy these Maple Pistachio Baklava Bites together. Each bite is a sweet reminder of the traditions we hold dear and the delicious memories we create around the table.